FeedBe sure the bunny
always has a supply of fresh water. About 1 cup of feed each day is usually enough. Adjust if necessary. Feed should not have corn if at all possible. Change grain brands slowly, by mixing the grains, decreasing the amount of old feed and increasing the amount of new feed daily until completely on the new feed. A handful of hay each day is advisable. They prefer coarse not fine hay. Not pure alfalfa because the feed is mostly alfalfa. You may feed the whole ration once a day or half the ration twice a day. Avoid treats like lettuce because of the water content. Carrots, are a favorite. Broccoli, apple, green grass, dandelion greens and banana are also possibilities. Introduce any treat in small quantities gradually increasing the amount so as not to upset the digestive system. Housing Minimum cage size is 30” X 30”. Breeding does and large animals need at least a 30” X 36” cage.
Do not use scented bedding in trays such as cedar shavings. Bunnies take cold well as long as there are no drafts. Heat is a problem. They start becoming too warm over 70°F Bunnies may be litter trained and they make good house pets, but they will chew on wood and electric cords. |
HealthRed colored urine may mean too much protein. It does not usually mean blood in the urine.
Wool block is the main health concern of angora bunnies. Getting the ripe wool off is the best preventative. Bunnies do not require any immunizations. Depending on housing and feeding, parasites such as wool mites, worms and coccidia might be a concern. GroomingBunnies grow a full coat in about 3 months.
Baby coat is soft. Wool is not considered prime until at least the second growth. Bunnies do not need grooming every day. If plucked and all the ripe wool is removed, they only need attention approximately every couple of weeks. Or, bunnies may be clipped approximately every three months. Toenails need to be trimmed approximately every 2 months. BreedingDoes should not be bred until at least 6 months old.
Bucks may be used for breeding about 5 months old if they show interest, but should be used sparingly. Gestation period is 31 days give or take a couple. Does should be given a nest box four or five days before kindling. The box might get used for a toilet if put in too soon. Nest boxes should not have sides so high that the doe injures herself jumping in and out. A wire bottom nest box lined with cardboard or piece of grain bag keeps the nest from becoming too wet and smelly and makes it easy to change wet bedding. |