Rabbits are single-stomach herbivores that primarily feed on grass and other vegetation. They do not typically compete with other animals for food, making them efficient in their feeding habits. The growth rate of rabbits depends on several factors, including the breed, environmental conditions, and management practices. To achieve rapid fattening, a comprehensive set of technical measures should be implemented.
First, selecting high-quality breeds is essential. Newborn rabbits enter a "sleep period" before their eyes open, which usually occurs around 12 days of age. During this time, it's crucial to ensure proper feeding. If the mother rabbit isn't producing enough milk, supplementary feeding methods should be used. Adding a small amount of baking soda to the water can help improve milk production. In cases where the mother is unable to nurse, artificial feeding may be necessary. Additionally, maintaining a quiet and comfortable environment is important to ensure good sleep for the young rabbits. If a pup develops "yellow urine disease," administering 1-2 drops of chloramphenicol eye drops before each feeding can help cure the condition within a few days.
Second, early weaning and cage feeding are important. After about 20 days, the mother’s milk supply decreases, so young rabbits should be introduced to solid food. Providing tender greens helps with digestion, while also ensuring that the diet contains 18% to 20% crude protein and 7% crude fiber. Using the "same kind of lure method" by placing 1–2 older rabbits in the same cage can encourage younger ones to eat more. It's also important to monitor for coccidiosis and take preventive measures.
Third, a scientifically balanced diet is key. The feed should be nutritionally complete, diverse, and easy to digest. A reference feed formula includes 2.8–2.9 megacalories of digestible energy per kilogram, 17–18% crude protein, 10–12% crude fiber, 3% crude fat, 0.4% calcium, 0.22% phosphorus, and 1% herbivorous livestock additive. Soybeans should be cooked, and the use of rapeseed meal should not exceed 8%, while corn should be limited to 40%. Total crude fiber should remain below 12%.
Fourth, dry feeding and adequate water intake are essential. Water plays a vital role in nutrient metabolism, and without it, rabbits can suffer from loss of appetite, constipation, and even death. A 6-month-old rabbit needs approximately 320–350 ml of water per kilogram of body weight. Feeding dry feed helps promote better digestion and dental health.
Fifth, managing feeding times and quantities is important. Before 60 days of age, young rabbits have underdeveloped digestive systems, so feed should be controlled—around 40–60 grams per day, with 8–9 servings of grass. From 60 to 120 days, they can be fed larger portions, up to 90 grams daily, with unlimited access to hay. Nighttime feeding accounts for about 65% of daily intake, so providing extra grass and water at night is crucial.
Sixth, mixed-group feeding can enhance growth rates. Keeping rabbits of different ages together (e.g., 20-day-olds with 30-day-olds) encourages social interaction and stimulates eating behavior. This method has been shown to improve growth by about 15% compared to keeping them in separate groups. Cage sizes should be appropriate, with 6–4 rabbits per cage depending on the stage of development.
Lastly, maintaining cleanliness and preventing common diseases is critical. Rabbits are prone to various illnesses, including rickets, pasteurellosis, laceration, coccidiosis, plague, and yellow urine disease in pups. Regular cleaning, proper ventilation, and timely vaccinations are essential to keep the herd healthy. By following these practices, rabbit farmers can significantly improve the growth and survival rates of their animals.
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