Page 147 - Agriculture Form Two

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Mating process: Introduce the doe to the buck’s cage or pen. It is recommended
to place the doe in the buck cage to avoid territorial behaviour exhibited by a doe.

Mating signs: The doe will often display signs of receptivity, such as sitting still
and allowing the buck to mount. If successful, mating usually takes only a few
FOR ONLINE READING ONLY
minutes. After mating, observe if the doe displays a “lordosis” position (arched
back), which indicates successful mating. It’s often advised to reintroduce the
doe to the buck 12-24 hours later to ensure successful breeding.
Pregnancy confirmation: Pregnancy in rabbits can be confirmed about 10-
14 days after mating by gently palpating the doe’s abdomen. Alternatively, a
veterinarian can perform an ultrasound for early confirmation. A pregnant doe
may show increased appetite, a slightly enlarged abdomen, and behaviour
changes such as nesting.

Pregnancy (gestation) in rabbits: Rabbit pregnancy lasts about 28-32 days,
with an average of 31 days. Ensure the doe has a comfortable, clean, and safe
environment. A balanced diet with adequate protein and nutrients supports the
developing kits.

Preparations for kindling
About a week before kindling, provide a nesting box in the doe cage. The box
should be clean, with dimensions of about 30 cm x 30 cm x 30 cm). Line it
with straw or hay. The doe may start gathering nesting material, pulling fur from
her belly to line the nest, and exhibit restlessness or nesting behaviour. Kindling
usually occurs without human intervention. The doe will give birth to a litter of
kits, which are born blind, hairless, and helpless. Ensure the kits are warm and
that the doe is nursing them. The doe may clean the kits and may eat the placentas.

Post-birth care
Kits rely on their mother’s milk for the first few weeks. They should start nibbling
on solid food around 2-3 weeks of age. Monitor the kits for signs of health issues,
such as not gaining weight or not nursing. The doe usually cares for themselves,
ensuring they are kept clean and safe.

Weaning
Kits are usually weaned at 4-6 weeks of age. By this time, they should be eating
solid food and can be separated from the doe. Gradually introduce the kits to a
diet of hay, fresh vegetables, and pellets to ease the transition from mother’s milk
to solid food.

Student’s Book Form Two 139

04/10/2024 18:07
Agriculture form 2.indd 139 04/10/2024 18:07
Agriculture form 2.indd 139