Many years ago, I received an article written by Linda Thompson, a nationally recognized
Mini Rex breeder. Her article was on conditioning rabbits for show. I immediately implemented her feeding ideas
into my own program and had very good success. However, as I moved around the country, I discovered
that I couldn't always buy the same ingredients AND discovered that not all breeds of rabbits responded the same way to different feeds.
It was a quite amazing phenomenon.
No feeding program will replace quality animals who stay in condition year round,
but it can help those who need a little extra. I start by selecting a good, quality pellet.
A good pelleted feed will have 16% crude protein, Min. crude fiber percent of 17% (more if you can),
and a minimum fat content of 2.5%.
The remaining ingredients are added on a seasonal rotation. Let's start in the winter.
Generally around November in Kansas, this season could be October in Wyoming, etc. It
is DEFINITELY never earlier! In the winter I have had numerous animals
literally saved by the addition of calf manna added to their diet. Calf Manna, a product made by
Manna Pro, is a super concentrated form of protein. I use a half pound of Calf Manna per 20 pounds of pellets
and mix it in well before feeding. I also like to add whole or rolled oats to my pellets.
I use oats this time of year because they add fat to your rabbit (and fiber) which helps them
shake off the winter chill. I use a 4:1 ratio - for every four parts pellets, I use one part
oats. For added heat and fiber on those really cold nights, throw a handfull of grass
hay to your rabbits. The digestion of hay creates heat which helps keep your
rabbit warm.
I discontinue the oats in March and switch to Barley instead. Barley is lower in fat but
can put a great finish on your animal. I only feed one teaspoon every other day to each animal.
I stop feeding Calf Manna by the end of April. If you continue to use Calf Manna, you will harm your animals.
The high levels of protein create excess heat and work for your rabbits (trying to digest it) and
it can cause them to lose their coat condition and get hot easier. I like to add small,
black oily sunflower seeds to my rabbits diet in April. This should be fed sparingly - similar
to the barley. The object behind this is to add luster and vibrance to their coats. It can cause
pasty feces in young rabbits so use sparingly.
Another product I use during the spring and fall months is wheat germ. The animals love it and you will love the results
you get in their coat! During the late summer months, I feed as light as possible.
I start with a pellet only and then add fresh greens (grasses, dandelions, etc.).
These light 'salads' are preferred over ANY supplements in the heat. I will use this
recipe August through October. It is okay to use the Barley and sunflower seeds,
but avoid it if you can.
Of course, nature has a lot to do with conditioning but you can help those little guys with your feeding program.
A word of caution, however, any time your protein levels drop suddenly, the animal may
go into a moult. So make sure that all your feed changes are spread out over a few
days time. Make sure your rabbits ALWAYS have fresh water! Without
fresh water, none of the above will matter. And as always - keep on hopping!
Get your own Free Home Page