2 does (chuckle) and now 10 babies

by Sheryle
(Laclede, Idaho)

Recently got 2 does, kept them together because I was "assured" they were both girls. Hmmm. Now I have 10 little ones. Unfortunately, I did not notice them as the 2 does roam freely in an enclosed area where my chickens once were. The doe had babies in the lower nesting box and I found them while cleaning.

Here's the deal, I was at least 10 days too late in separating the two. (Done now) How will this affect the babies now? Do I need to pull them from her sooner?

****Karen Sez****
We're already squarely into Autumn right now. I know that rabbit warrens go through a short season where they don't fight and they don't breed - they just hang out and rebuild their body reserves for the next cycle of multiplication.

If your rabbits have hit that dormant stage, there will be no worries. (Glad you separated them!) The doe will let the kits hang around and nurse every evening for several weeks longer than usual.

If not, then the chances the doe is already rebred are very good. If so, plan to wean the babies at 4 weeks old. And even if you don't, the pregnant doe will likely drive her kits away from her at 28 days so she can build a nest and have her new litter.

No worries, kits are usually fully taking care of themselves from around 3 - 3 1/2 weeks old, even if they still get to nurse.

Good luck!
K