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For those of us breeders who live in the Northern regions of the U.S: and in Canada, when the fall months come around it can only mean one thing, old man winter is not far behind. The winter months, especially for people who do not have climate controlled barns in these northern regions, can also be particularly rough on our rabbits. However, I have never lost a rabbit due to cold temperatures (or hot ones for that matter) and I just thought I'd share these tips with you. *Always make sure your rabbits have plenty of warm water to drink. This may not be as easy as it sounds. On some days, by the time I am finished doing chores in my barn, the first half of the barn has frozen water dishes already I chop the ice out of the dishes and water the rabbits at least three or four times every day. *Feeding your rabbits right is also important. I slowly increase my rabbits feed as the fall months progress because it helps them stay in better condition going into the cold winter. I also watch them carefully once the winter months set in. Some will be fine all winter on just a little extra feed. Others will lose weight dramatically. I give these animals all they can eat, sometimes for the duration of the winter months. Some will even need extra grain conditioners to keep adequate flesh condition. *When it gets really cold, consider putting a couple handfuls of straw into the cages. The rabbits will burrow into it and it will keep them warm. *Remember that although it is cold out your rabbits are still in need of fresh air. Don't close up every nook and cranny of your barn unless a strong wind prevents you from opening anything. On a calm, cold day it's okay to leave a window open for proper ventilation. * If you are going to try to breed your rabbits in the winter, remember that light is the key. Rabbits need fourteen hours of daylight, so keep your lights burning. One breeder I know brings her rabbits in her basement in the winter so that she can breed them. Nestbox heaters will also save litters born in the cold winter nights. Although it's a lot of work to keep your rabbit outdoors in the bitter cold of winter, it can be done. I hope this helped you out and good luck with your rabbits. |