Do 4 H Rabbits need a pedigree?

Only get a purebred, pedigreed rabbit, and avoid anything advertised as “4-H quality.” Show quality will cost more, but it is worth avoiding heartbreak and disappointment in the future by bucking up the cash for a good rabbit. Look for an adult rabbit, preferably one that has been used for showmanship before.

How long does it take to raise meat rabbits?

The reason people raise California and New Zealand rabbits for meat is that they are very good at growing to five pounds in 10-11 weeks. If you are growing rabbits and they only grow to three or four pounds in 10-12 weeks, then you should cull the breeding stock and replace it with better stock.

How fast can Rabbits multiply?

Rabbits, just like rodents, are very well known for the speed at which they breed, with many females having more than one litter a year. In fact, it is not uncommon for the average female rabbit to have many litters because gestation is only about 1 month.

How many hours of darkness do rabbits need?

Florida’s St. Petersburg Animal Hospital recommends a 12-hour dark/light cycle, best accomplished by using lighting that approximates natural daylight.

What is the best rabbit for 4-h?

Market — Market rabbits should be a commercial breed intended for meat production. Some recommended meat class rabbit breeds include Californians, Americans, Cinnamons, Champagne D’ Argents Crème D’ Argents, Silver Fox, New Zealand, Rex, Flemish Giant American, Giant, Standard Chinchilla, Satin and Palomino.

Is raising meat rabbits worth it?

They’re not worth the effort. If you’re serious about keeping rabbits for meat, you need a breed built for the job. Meat rabbits are longer, fatter, and fluffier than your typical wild bunny. Unsurprisingly, they’re prized for their meat, though they’re also raised for fur.

Is raising rabbits profitable?

Raising rabbits for meat is quite a simple production to start if you have the time and space. It can be highly lucrative, especially if you plan to raise your rabbits on grass and market your product as grass-fed rather than as raised in hutches.

What can you do with a 4-H rabbit?

You can have them as pets, show them or raise them for their meat, fur or fertilizer. Many 4-H members and adults enjoy showing their rabbits at fairs and rabbit shows. Raising and showing rabbits requires hard work and dedication to be successful. However, the entire process can be enjoyable with the right supplies and information.

How long does it take for a rabbit to give birth?

Signs of Birth. If you are raising meat rabbits, learning about rabbits’ birthing habits is one of the most important aspects. A rabbit’s gestation period is only 30 days. This means you can have a new litter of baby bunnies in a month’s time.

What’s the best way to raise rabbits for meat?

Rabbits are extremely hot-natured so it is important to place their shelter in a shaded area. In the summer, it is wise to place frozen water bottles in the hutches with the rabbits to help keep them cool. When raising rabbits for meat there are many options for food. You can purchase rabbit pellets from a feed store.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of raising rabbits?

There are advantages and challenges with each type of system. Rabbit cages generally house 1 or 2 rabbits at a time and provide a way to control breeding, keep rabbits from fighting or bullying and allow for a more controlled environment. Rabbit colonies provide rabbits the socialization that they enjoy and allow them a more natural habitat.

Can a 4-H member raise a rabbit?

SUGGESTION: It is recommended that meat pens be raised by the member as it is very difficult to buy three animals and have them match as needed by 4-H fair week. If the member cannot raise his/her own pens it is suggested they enter the single fryer or roaster class with a rabbit they have purchased.

How big should a 4-H meat rabbit be?

Meat rabbits will be weighed at time of entry on the first day of the 4-H Fair. Meat Pen – 3 animals of the same breed and variety (color), any sex, weighing between 3.5 to 5.5 pounds each and not over 10 weeks old

What are different types of 4-H rabbit projects?

There are a few different types of 4-H rabbit projects — breeding, pet and market projects. You want to decide which type of project you’ll be doing before choosing a breed and getting a rabbit because some breeds are more suited to specific projects.

When do you get a rabbit tattoo in 4-H?

The 4-H Rabbit Committee will set a June date for any 4-H member who needs rabbits tattooed.If member cannot make the date, he/she must make arrangements with the superintendent before the deadline (can be tattooed at a meeting). All tattoo dates are final. No late entries will be accepted.