In autumn, the weather is generally mild, and there's an abundance of nutritious feed, making it an ideal time for raising rabbits. However, as the season transitions, special attention must be given to climate changes and the care of rabbits during their molting period, according to Zhao Lingyan, President of the Dingbian County Rabbit Industry Association in Shaanxi Province, who shared these insights during an interview at the 2009 Shaanxi Rabbit Industry Forum.
Zhao, a health and disease prevention officer, emphasized that the significant temperature difference between day and night in autumn can easily lead to illnesses such as colds, pneumonia, and enteritis in rabbits, especially young ones. In severe cases, this may even result in death. Therefore, it’s advisable not to keep rabbits outdoors during storms or sudden temperature drops. When feeding, it’s recommended to include antibiotics like furazolidone and high-protein feeds. Additionally, avoid feeding dewy grass or green feed that hasn't dried after rain, as it can cause digestive issues.
Due to recent continuous rainy weather, some rabbit houses with poor ventilation have become damp, creating favorable conditions for microorganisms to thrive. This increases the risk of parasitic diseases like coccidiosis and rabbit lice, as well as digestive problems. Keeping the rabbit house dry is therefore crucial during this time.
Hao Minzhi, a member of the China Animal Husbandry Association's Rabbit Industry Branch, also stressed the importance of cleanliness and disinfection at the 2009 forum. He advised that rabbit cages should be arranged scientifically and kept well-ventilated and insulated. Regular cleaning and washing of the rabbit house are essential to maintain fresh air. The beds, cages, and feeding equipment should be maintained regularly, and water tanks and fountains must be sterilized.
Moreover, due to the recent drop in temperature, although rabbits can tolerate cold temperatures, they are sensitive to sudden temperature fluctuations. They are particularly vulnerable to colds, rhinitis, pneumonia, and arthritis if exposed to drafts. To prevent these issues, it’s important to regulate the indoor temperature, protect against wind, and ensure a stable environment for the rabbits' healthy growth and development.
Autumn is also a great time for rabbits to gain weight, as they tend to eat more at night. Unlike during the day when they rest after eating, rabbits are more active at night, consuming large amounts of food quickly. Therefore, it’s recommended to provide additional grass feed at night, ideally once at 9 p.m. and again at 2 a.m.
As the leaves on forage grass begin to fall, it’s important to harvest and store the feed promptly. Delaying the harvest can lead to older stems and leaves, increasing crude fiber content and reducing digestible nutrients, which lowers the overall feed value. Proper storage of crop straw, root vegetables, and other feed sources is equally critical to maintaining quality and ensuring a steady supply throughout the season.
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