Rabbit farming a highly profitable business due to many reasons. It can be helpful to meet the besides increasing the income of breeders. Some of the key benefits of rabbit farming are as under.
Rabbits have high edible meat-to-bone ration as compared to chicken.
The rabbit possess fast breeding and female rabbits give birth to 2 to 8 babies at a time.
The rabbits have efficient feed production as they can produce six pounds of meat on the same amount of feed and water as a cow produces one pound.
Due to efficient meat production, fur, and pets, the rabbit farming is becoming popular.
Some of the guidelines for well-organized rabbit farming include types of rabbits, the best time for farming, advantages, disadvantages, profit potential, and common losses.
Belonging to Leporidae family, the rabbits are small mammals raised for meat, fur, and as pets. Small backyards can be used for rabbit farming or it can be done on larger commercial farms.
(a). Meet Breeds of the Rabbits:
New Zealand White: This type of rabbit is known for rapid growth and large size, making it a popular choice for meat production.
California: It is another fast-growing rabbits breed, known for its good meat quality and adaptability.
Champagne d’Argent: This is a meat breed of rabbit with a distinctive silver coat, appreciated for its quality meat.
(b). Fur Breeds of the Rabbits:
Rex: This breed of rabbits is known for its soft fur and good meat quality, making it dual-purpose.
Angora: This type of rabbits is valued for its long, luxurious fur, which can be harvested for textiles.
(c). Pet Breeds of the Rabbits:
Mini Rex: This is a smaller version of the Rex, popular as a pet due to its friendly nature.
Holland Lop: This type of rabbits is a small, friendly breed that is often kept as a companion animal.
3. Best Time for Rabbit Farming
Seasonal Considerations:
Rabbits Breeding: The cooler months of spring and fall are the best time to breed rabbits. The extreme heat affects fertility and kit survival rate. However, in controlled environments, the rabbits can be bred throughout the year.
Growing and Raising: For growing rabbits, spring and early summer are ideal due to the availability of fresh forage and moderate temperatures, which support their healthy growth.
Time of Marketing: The best time to sell rabbits or their meat must be determined as per local market trends. Demand may increase during holiday seasons or specific events.
