Raising Rabbits: Feed, Housing & Colony Planning Guide

Rabbits are one of the most efficient small-farm meat animals. A trio of does and one buck can produce 90 or more kits per year with modest space and feed requirements.

Feed needs

A breeding doe eats 5.5 oz of pellets per day; fryers eat about 3.5 oz during grow-out. That is roughly 0.34 lb per adult per day.

Space requirements

A doe with litter needs a cage of at least 7.5 sq ft. A buck cage is 5 sq ft. Three does and one buck need 27.5 sq ft of cage space total.

Water needs

Rabbits drink about 0.15 gal per animal per day. Lactating does with litters may drink double. Provide fresh water via bottles or crocks daily.

Tips for success

• Expect about 4.5 litters per doe per year with an average of 7 kits each.
• Feed unlimited grass hay alongside pellets to maintain gut health and reduce fur-chewing.
• Keep cages in shade with good airflow — rabbits are highly susceptible to heat stress above 85 F.

Common mistakes

• Housing bucks and does together continuously, leading to unplanned breeding and aggression.
• Using cedar shavings for bedding, which irritates rabbit respiratory systems.

Estimates only — consult your local extension office for advice specific to your land and animals.