Rabbit reproduction Flashcards
How long is rabbit gestation?
30-33 days
How many offspring do rabbits have in a year?
over 40
When do the testes descend in rabbits?
~10 weeks
but can retract due to well developed cremaster muscle and open inguinal canal
How do you sex rabbits?
Describe the timings of puberty vs sexual maturity in rabbits
Puberty can pre-date sexual maturity
What are the issues the come with reaching puberty before sexual maturity in rabbits?
poor mothering, nesting
inadequate milk supply
foetal rejection
Describe the oestrus cycle of rabbits
not regular
variable receptive period (up to 14 days)
Induced ovulators (10-13 hrs after mating)
Describe the behavioural signs of pregnancy in rabbits
What are the causes of pseudopregnancy in rabbits?
infertile mating
doe on doe mating
stress
How long is pseudopregnancy in rabbits?
16-18 days
How is pregnancy detected in rabbits and when can they be done?
Ultrasound: 6-7 days
Radiography: 11 days
Palpation: 10-14 days
What are the benefits of elective neutering in female rabbits?
prevent unwanted litters
prevent pseudopregnancy
Reduce territorial behaviour and aggression
Prevent repro disease (uterine adenocarcinoma)
What are the benefits of elective neutering in male rabbits?
Prevent unwanted pregnancy
Reduce aggression and fighting
Reduce unwanted behaviours e.g., humping, spraying
Reduce sexual frustration
When can male rabbit neutering be done?
Anytime after testicular descent (~10 weeks)
When should female rabbit neutering be done?
6-9 months
<6 months: uterus and ovaries hard to locate
>12 months: lots of fat
Describe the unique repro anatomy of female rabbits
Elongated ovaries
Ovaries in dorsal abdomen, near kidneys
No uterine bodies, two cervices (duplex)
Lots of fat in mesometrium
