Rabbits

Rabbits belong to the order Lagomorpha. Domestic rabbits are like rodents in many aspects. They are included in all domestic, pets, and laboratory animals. They are used for research purposes due to less gestation period and ability of multiple births.

Restraining

They are restrained by holding the loose skin around the shoulders or by placing a towel on it.

Handling

·                     They can be handled easily by grasping the trunk with one hand and supporting the rear quarters with the other hand.

·                     Support is important to support the back to prevent any injury or dislocation especially in adult and pregnant animals.

 

Housing

·                     Rabbits can be housed in wire mesh hanging cages.

·                     Rabbits can also be housed in a stainless steel cage with a mesh floor underneath which there is a tray for excreta.

Feeding/nutrition

·                     Water should be available either through an automatic water system or manual water bottles.

·                     Food is provided ad libitum.

·                      Commercially prepared food is available.

·                     They can eat any type of vegetables available.

 

Breeding

·                     In rabbits, ovulation is induced.

·                     Unless the female is mated, she will remain in a state of constant estrous throughout the breeding season.

·                     Breeding rabbits should be kept on solid floors rather than grid floor cages.

·                     As they reach sexual maturity, the breeding should be commenced because at that time breeding efficiency is maximum.

Environmental management

·                     A temperature range of 21-23 centigrade should be maintained in their rooms.

·                     Humidity should be in a range of 50%.

·                     The light should be provided at least a full day, usually, 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness are provided in their house.

·                     Cleaning the house 2-3 times a week is recommended.

 Diseases

Some common infections of rabbits include:

·                     Pasteurellosis

·                     Listeriosis

·                     Tularemia

·                     Colibacillosis

·                     enterotoxemia

·                     Salmonellosis

·                     Staphylococcus infection

·                     Tyzzer’s disease

·                     Calicivirus

·                     Rotavirus

·                     Poxvirus

·                     Pinworms

·                     Tapeworms

Treatment is done according to the diagnosis of disease and causative agents.