In rabbit farming, the number of litters a female rabbit has depends on the production goals. Sometimes, farmers aim for fewer, high-quality litters to ensure better breeding stock, while in commercial operations, maximizing litter size is often the priority to increase profits. This process is similar to pruning fruit trees—careful management can lead to better outcomes.
Historically, some people tried methods like manually removing embryos from pregnant rabbits to control litter size. However, modern techniques now allow for more effective and humane control through managing mating stimuli. Rabbits are unique in that they require external stimulation to ovulate. The stronger the mating stimulus, the more eggs are released. Without this stimulation, the eggs may not develop and could be reabsorbed.
To control the number of offspring, farmers can adjust the intensity of mating. For example, if a breeder wants fewer births, a single mating session with a male rabbit is sufficient. This usually results in around six offspring. On the other hand, to encourage larger litters, a method called "double mating" can be used.
The process involves first stimulating the female rabbit to reach full estrus. When her vulva turns pink, she is ready. Farmers might use various aphrodisiac techniques, such as exposing her to a male rabbit, massaging her, or using iodine-based stimulants. Some even use drugs to enhance sexual response. Once fully aroused, the female is mated once, then again after 8 hours with the same or another male. This repeated, intense stimulation encourages the release of more mature eggs, increasing the chances of multiple pregnancies.
A study involving 150 breeding females using this double mating technique showed varied results: 21 litters had 12–14 kits (4.6%), 113 had 9–10 (25.1%), 241 had 7–8 (53.5%), 52 had 6 or fewer (11.5%), 17 were pseudo-pregnant (3.7%), and 6 ended in miscarriage (1.3%). These findings highlight how controlled mating can significantly influence reproductive outcomes in rabbits.
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