Page 146 - Agriculture Form Two

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Pregnant and lactating does: Pregnant and lactating does require a diet higher in
protein, calcium, and energy. Increase the quantity of pellets and provide Alfalfa
hay. However, overfeeding pellets can lead to obesity and digestive problems.
Insufficient hay can cause dental issues and digestive blockages. Avoid feeding
starchy vegetables (like potatoes) and sugary fruits in excess, as they can cause
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digestive upset.

Monitoring health: Regularly monitor rabbits eating habits, weight, and
droppings. Any significant changes could indicate health issues and should be
addressed promptly. Ensure the rabbit teeth are healthy by providing ample hay
and occasionally offering safe chew toys or branches (like wood) to help wear
down teeth.

Activity 8.3
1. Pay a visit to your school farm or a nearby rabbit farm, observe:
(a) feeding and drinking equipment
(b) feeds and feeding routine of rabbits
(c) effects caused by poor feeding to rabbits
2. Summarize the information in your portfolio.

Exercise 8.2
1. Identify different types of feeds used in rabbit production.

2. Referring to the feed types identified in question 1,
(a) explain essential characteristics for each feed type

(b) identify limitations and suggest solutions for each.
3. When is considered the right time for providing supplement feed to kittens?

Breeding in rabbit

Breeding and pregnancy in rabbits involve steps and considerations to ensure
successful reproduction and healthy offspring. Select healthy rabbits that are
free from disease and have good physical condition. Both males (bucks) and
females (does) should have desirable traits, such as good size, conformation, and
temperament. Rabbits are usually bred when they are 6-8 months old, but this can
vary depending on the breed.

138 Student’s Book Form Two

04/10/2024 18:07
Agriculture form 2.indd 138 04/10/2024 18:07
Agriculture form 2.indd 138