Baby kits born unexpectedly two days ago is it ok to check them
by Hayley
Hi I have a doe who has an unexpected litter. They seem fine for what I can see but I haven't handled them yet out of fear she will hurt them. I know they are alive - I can see them moving when I open the hutch. She made a massive nest in the sleeping area of her hutch. I thought that she was having a phantom pregnancy as I thought I had two girls. (Clearly not!)
I haven't been bothering her only to feed her and she is fine with that and isn't stressed out with it. I would also like to clean out the bit where she is weeing. I don't want to stress her out so I'm trying to play it safe while ever so eager to see them. :-)
I had a bad experience with a doe before who killed two litters and I don't want it happening again any info would be great. Like I said they're two days now. When are they out of the danger mark? Thanks
***** Karen Sez *****Surprise, eh??
Just like the
Rabbits Giving Birth page said, you can check the kits when they're born. Just follow the directions.
Your prior doe that destroyed her two litters might not have had enough maternal instincts. The majority of rabbits will not harm their babies unless they feel threatened by some sort of perceived predator. If your doe knows you and likes you, you won't have to worry about the kits. Plus, her enormous nest is an indication of strong maternal instincts.
Lastly, you may actually need to prepare for a second "surprise" litter in 30 more days. There is a chance that the buck re-bred the doe shortly after she kindled these kits, if it was still in with the doe when she gave birth.
Just sayin'...!