母兔分娩护理与仔兔接生技术规范

Doe kindling is one of the most critical points in rabbit production. Standardized kindling care significantly reduces kit mortality and improves weaning survival rate and weaning weight. Every detail from prenatal preparation to postpartum care affects final farming profitability.

Rabbit gestation averages 31 days (30-33 days). Place sanitized nest boxes in the cage 3-5 days before kindling, using soft clean hay or shavings as bedding. Does pull fur from their chest and abdomen to line the nest before kindling, an important signal that parturition is imminent.

Kindling usually occurs at night or early morning, lasting 15-30 minutes. After delivering, does immediately bite off umbilical cords, clean kits, and consume placentas. Intervals between kits are 2-5 minutes. Staff should observe from outside the cage and not intervene except for dystocia.

Dystocia emergency: if strong straining continues for 30 minutes without delivery, inject 0.5-1 IU oxytocin intramuscularly. After delivery, clear oral and nasal mucus from kits and gently rub their entire bodies with a towel to stimulate breathing. For apparently stillborn kits, immerse the body in 40-degree Celsius warm water with head exposed.

Postpartum inspection: promptly check the nest box, remove stillborn kits, placentas, and soiled bedding, replacing with clean bedding. Count live kits and record. Add brown sugar and electrolyte multivitamins to drinking water for 3 days postpartum to promote lactation. Observe nursing behavior; nursing once in the morning and once in the evening is normal.