Should a Nursing Rabbit’s Diet Change Over Time?

🌱 Initial Dietary Adjustments During Pregnancy

Even before giving birth, a pregnant doe’s diet should be adjusted. During the final two weeks of pregnancy, gradually increase her food intake. This prepares her body for the demanding task of milk production after kindling (giving birth).

Increase the amount of high-quality hay offered. Hay should always be the foundation of a rabbit’s diet, providing essential fiber for digestive health. Timothy hay, orchard grass, or meadow hay are excellent choices.

Supplement with a small amount of high-quality rabbit pellets. These pellets should be specifically formulated for rabbits and provide a balanced source of vitamins and minerals. Avoid pellets with excessive fillers or sugary ingredients.

🍼 The Peak of Lactation: Maximizing Milk Production

The first few weeks after kindling represent the peak of lactation. During this period, the doe’s nutritional needs are at their highest. Her body is working tirelessly to produce milk, requiring a significant increase in calories, protein, and calcium.

Increase the amount of rabbit pellets offered. A nursing doe may need two to three times the amount of pellets she consumed before pregnancy. Monitor her weight and adjust the amount accordingly to prevent her from becoming underweight.

Continue providing unlimited hay. Hay should still make up the majority of her diet. It aids in digestion and helps prevent gastrointestinal stasis, a potentially life-threatening condition in rabbits.

Offer a variety of fresh, leafy greens. Safe options include romaine lettuce, kale, parsley, and cilantro. Introduce new greens gradually to avoid digestive upset.

💧 Hydration is Key: Providing Fresh Water

Lactation significantly increases a doe’s water requirements. Ensure she has constant access to fresh, clean water. Use both a water bottle and a heavy ceramic bowl. This ensures that water is always available, even if one source is accidentally emptied or malfunctions.

Monitor her water intake closely. Dehydration can quickly lead to a decrease in milk production and can be detrimental to her health and the health of her kits.

📉 Gradually Reducing Food Intake as Kits Wean

As the kits begin to wean, typically around 4-6 weeks of age, the doe’s milk production will naturally decrease. At this point, it’s essential to gradually reduce her food intake to prevent weight gain and other health problems.

Start by slowly decreasing the amount of pellets offered. Reduce the portion size by about 10-20% each week. Monitor her weight and adjust the reduction rate as needed.

Continue providing unlimited hay and fresh greens. These should remain staples of her diet. They provide essential fiber and nutrients without the high calorie content of pellets.

Ensure the kits are also introduced to solid foods. Offer them small amounts of hay, pellets, and leafy greens. This will help them transition smoothly to a solid food diet.

⚠️ Foods to Avoid During Lactation

Certain foods should be avoided during lactation as they can cause digestive upset in the doe or the kits, or they may interfere with milk production.

• Sugary treats: Avoid giving your nursing rabbit sugary treats like fruit or commercial rabbit treats. These can cause digestive problems and lead to obesity.
• Starchy vegetables: Limit starchy vegetables like carrots and potatoes. These are high in carbohydrates and can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut.
• Iceberg lettuce: Avoid iceberg lettuce as it has very little nutritional value and can cause diarrhea.
• Human food: Never give your rabbit human food. Many human foods are toxic to rabbits.

🩺 Monitoring the Doe’s Health

Regularly monitor the doe’s health throughout pregnancy and lactation. Look for any signs of illness, such as loss of appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing. Contact a veterinarian immediately if you notice any concerning symptoms.

Check her mammary glands for any signs of mastitis, an infection of the mammary glands. Symptoms of mastitis include redness, swelling, and pain. Mastitis requires prompt veterinary treatment.

Ensure she is grooming herself properly. A neglected coat can be a sign of underlying health problems.

⚖️ Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for a nursing rabbit. Both underweight and overweight does can experience complications. Monitor the doe’s weight regularly and adjust her diet as needed to maintain a healthy body condition.

A healthy rabbit should have a slightly rounded body shape. You should be able to feel her ribs easily, but they shouldn’t be too prominent. If you’re unsure whether your rabbit is at a healthy weight, consult with a veterinarian.