How to Improve the Reproductive Rate of Domestic Rabbits? A Detailed Explanation of Practical Technical Measures

1. Genetic Factors

Reproductive capacity is affected by genetics; there are differences between breeds, and individual differences also exist within the same breed. Small breeds have greater reproductive capacity than large breeds, and crossbred rabbits have greater reproductive capacity than purebred rabbits.

2. Environmental Factors

Environmental factors such as season, temperature and light all affect the reproduction of domestic rabbits. By season, the mating rate of domestic rabbits from high to low is spring > summer > winter > autumn. The temperature that domestic rabbits can adapt to is 5-30°C, and the suitable temperature is 15-25°C. Experiments have found that when the daily average temperature in the rabbit house in winter is around 7°C, normal estrus, mating, pregnancy and kindling can occur; in summer, when the maximum temperature in the rabbit house is 27-28°C, normal reproduction is also possible. With lighting of 15 W/sq m for breeding bucks and a daily light duration of about 12 h, and light duration for does controlled at 14-16 h per day, normal mating and reproduction can occur.

3. Nutritional Factors

Nutrition is an important factor affecting the reproductive rate of domestic rabbits, especially playing a decisive role in estrus, mating, conception and the survival of young rabbits, and it can also affect the semen quality and sexual function of bucks.

4. Breeding Techniques

Breeding techniques have a great influence on the reproductive rate of domestic rabbits. After mature eggs are released, they must combine with sperm and be fertilized; otherwise, the fertilizing capacity of the eggs gradually weakens and may even be lost. Conversely, if sperm reach the fertilization site too early while ovulation is too late, the fertilizing capacity of the sperm will likewise weaken, affecting the combination of sperm and eggs.

5. Pregnancy Diagnosis

The accuracy of pregnancy diagnosis determines whether the reproductive status of domestic rabbits can be understood in a timely manner and whether necessary treatment or re-mating can be carried out for does that have not conceived. The fetal palpation method is the most accurate method in pregnancy diagnosis; after a doe has been mated for 10-12 d, the fetuses are about the size of a peanut, located on both sides of the abdomen, and can be felt through the abdominal wall.