Wean onto Appropriate Feed

Provide weaned kits with constant access to a high-quality grower pellet containing 16-18% crude protein and 18-20% fiber, alongside unlimited grass hay. Avoid switching pellet brands or formulations at weaning time. Young rabbits need consistent, nutrient-dense feed to support rapid growth averaging 30-40 grams per day in medium breeds.

Why It Works

Sudden diet changes disrupt the cecal microbiome, which is still stabilizing in newly weaned kits. Maintaining the same pellet they ate as creep feed eliminates one major variable during an already stressful transition. High fiber content from both pellets and hay promotes healthy cecal fermentation and reduces the risk of enteritis, the leading cause of mortality in weanling rabbits.

Tips

• Use the same pellet brand the kits ate alongside the doe to ensure dietary continuity
• Do not restrict pellet intake for growing kits under 12 weeks of age
• Keep fresh water available at all times; weanlings dehydrate quickly and may need bottle or bowl training