Development Stages of Young Rabbits
Newborn rabbits have no fur at birth. Within the first week after birth, they begin to grow soft baby fur. Around three months of age, they shed this baby fur and grow a new coat. Between four months to about half a year old, they undergo another molt, which can be seen as a sign that the rabbit is preparing to reach adulthood.
The Doe's Large Dewlap
Near the throat of a rabbit, there is a large ring of skin folds called the dewlap. This structure, affectionately nicknamed the "large scarf" by rabbit enthusiasts, is more prominent in adult, unspayed does.
Pregnant does will pluck the fur from this area before giving birth and use it to line their nests in the rabbit hutch, creating a soft and warm space for their newborn kits.
In older does, the dewlap can grow very large, sometimes even dragging on the ground. It can occasionally be mistaken for a tumor.
Understanding Pseudo-Pregnancy in Female Rabbits
Pseudo-pregnancy in adult female rabbits who have not actually undergone pregnancy can sometimes present with a curious behavior. These rabbits may repeatedly pull out the hair from their dewlap—a fleshy fold of skin under the chin. This behavior can persist for several consecutive days, which is why it is referred to as pseudo-pregnancy.
In more severe cases, the condition can lead to the complete removal of the chest fur, causing the rabbit's chest hair to be entirely plucked out. Fortunately, this condition can be effectively treated through spay surgery, which not only cures the issue but also prevents the continued growth of the dewlap, thereby reducing the likelihood of further hair-pulling behaviors.
