A Mother Rabbit's Tender Care
The bodies of newborn rabbits are always kept clean by their mother. Because of this, rabbit owners don't need to worry too much about hygiene during the early days.
About ten days after birth, baby rabbits begin to gain strength in their legs and start chasing their mother to nurse. At this stage, we can often see the mother rabbit carefully tending to her kits while they drink milk. She gently cleans the areas that are difficult for them to reach on their own — including their droppings, bottoms, and tiny feet.
The curious little ones sometimes kick and squirm playfully, but the mother doesn't seem to mind the discomfort. All she cares about is keeping her babies clean and healthy. Isn't that such a touching display of a mother's love?
Caring for Baby Rabbits: A Guide for Rabbit Moms
When baby rabbits are about two weeks old, they begin to learn how to eat and chew solid food. However, at this stage, they are not yet ready to be fully weaned. It's very important not to assume that a baby rabbit can leave its mother just because it starts nibbling on food.
Continue nursing the babies until they are at least 45 days old. During this period, they still rely on their mother's milk for essential nutrients and antibodies that strengthen their immune systems. Proper nursing ensures they grow healthy and strong.
After 45 days, baby rabbits' teeth and claws begin developing rapidly. This is an ideal time for them to practice drinking water and eating solid foods such as alfalfa hay and pellets. Gradual introduction to these foods helps them adapt to an independent diet safely.
When to Separate Baby Rabbits from Their Mother
Raising rabbits can be a heartwarming experience, but it's important to know when mother and babies should begin living apart. Although baby rabbits depend on their mother for warmth and nourishment, there comes a time when their growing strength can cause discomfort to her.
"If the baby rabbit is still living with the mother after 50 days, its teeth and claws will start to hurt her when nursing, so please remember to separate them at that time!"
After about 50 days, young rabbits develop sharper teeth and claws. Continuing to nurse at this stage can injure the mother's skin and stress both animals. To ensure their well-being, provide the baby rabbits with their own enclosure once they can eat solid food comfortably.
By separating them at the right time, both the mother and her babies can grow up healthy and happy in their own spaces.
