Weight and breeding rabbits

[Chikn-Chik]

I’ve read different opinions on when it’s the right time to breed your doe for the first time. One I see the most is her age and weight. My doe is a LionLop, roughly 15 weeks old. And while she’s not age appropriate to breed yet (I believe) she’s past weight appropriate. Last week she weighed 4.7 lbs. (Meanwhile my lionhead x buck is almost 2 and 5lbs)

My question is, since she’s past estimated mature weight should I just wait until age appropriate for her?

 

[AlleysChicks]

Yes wait. You want her body to be mature enough. Age is more important than weight. When she is the proper age then worry if she weighs enough.

 

[Bunnylady]

Weight is totally meaningless with a small crossbreed like your doe - you don't know what her mature weight will be, so you have no idea what percentage of it she has now achieved. This is why purebreds must be at least 6 months old to be eligible for registration (8 months for giant breeds); until the animal has stopped growing, there is always the possibility that it might not finish up within the weight limits set up for its breed.

You want both animals to be fully mature before breeding them. Any first-time doe may make a hash of things, but a doe that isn't mature is more likely to do so than one that is the appropriate age. A buck that is too young may be willing, but not fertile, which is a waste of everybody's time. Rabbits that aren't ready may fight rather than breed, and if a young buck has a rough time of it, he can be put off of breeding entirely.

Far better to wait until they are old enough.

 

[Chikn-Chik]

Thank you both! I wanted a more confirmed answer rather than just researching online

 

[Bunnylady]

Thank you both! I wanted a more confirmed answer rather than just researching online

You have to remember - a lot of folks on forums (and bloggers!) may be bunny-owner-wanna-be's that are just repeating each other, with little or no experience to back up what they are saying.

Good on ya for continuing to seek information!