Overview
Rabbit gestation averages 31 days. Does can breed again immediately after giving birth.
Signs of Pregnancy
- ✓Changes in appetite and behavior
- ✓Weight gain and abdominal enlargement
- ✓Mammary gland development
- ✓Nesting behavior near due date
Early Stage (First Third)
Confirmation and Initial Care
The early stage is critical for embryo development. Focus on confirming pregnancy and establishing proper care routines.
🍽️Nutrition in Early Stage
- • Maintain regular diet - avoid sudden changes
- • Ensure high-quality protein sources
- • Provide fresh water at all times
- • Add folic acid supplements if recommended
💚Care Guidelines
- • Confirm pregnancy through veterinary examination
- • Maintain normal exercise routine
- • Avoid stress and sudden environmental changes
- • Begin monitoring weight and appetite
Mid Stage (Second Third)
Rapid Growth Period
During mid-pregnancy, the fetus grows rapidly. Nutritional needs increase significantly during this period.
🍽️Nutrition in Mid Stage
- • Gradually increase food intake by 25-50%
- • Add calcium and phosphorus supplements
- • Provide multiple small meals throughout the day
- • Include omega-3 fatty acids for fetal development
💙Care Guidelines
- • Schedule mid-pregnancy veterinary check-up
- • Monitor weight gain carefully
- • Reduce strenuous exercise
- • Watch for signs of complications
Late Stage (Final Third)
Preparation for Birth
The final stage requires careful monitoring and preparation for delivery. The mother needs maximum support during this time.
🍽️Nutrition in Late Stage
- • Continue increased feeding - may need 50-75% more
- • Provide easily digestible, nutrient-dense foods
- • Ensure adequate calcium for milk production
- • Keep water always available
💜Care Guidelines
- • Prepare clean, quiet birthing area
- • Monitor closely for signs of labor
- • Restrict exercise to gentle walks
- • Have veterinary emergency contacts ready
Complete Dietary Guidelines
🥩 Protein
Essential for fetal development and milk production
🦴 Calcium
Critical for bone development and preventing eclampsia
💊 Vitamins
A, D, E for immune system and development
⚡ Minerals
Iron, zinc, selenium for overall health
💧 Water
Unlimited access to fresh, clean water
Pregnancy Milestones
Breeding Date
Day 0
Day of mating
Palpation
Day 12
Embryos palpable
Nest Building
3 days before due date
Provide nesting box
Birth Preparation Checklist
- • Prepare a clean, quiet, and comfortable birthing area
- • Have emergency veterinary contact information readily available
- • Gather necessary supplies (clean towels, heating pad, etc.)
- • Monitor closely for signs of labor
- • Ensure the mother is calm and stress-free
Warning Signs - When to Call a Vet
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe:
- ⚠️ Prolonged labor without progress (more than 2 hours of active straining)
- ⚠️ Excessive bleeding or abnormal discharge
- ⚠️ Signs of distress (excessive panting, weakness, collapse)
- ⚠️ Failure to deliver all offspring within expected timeframe
Post-Birth Care
- ✓Monitor mother and offspring closely for first 24 hours
- ✓Ensure all offspring are nursing properly
- ✓Watch for signs of infection or complications
- ✓Schedule post-birth veterinary check-up