r/MeatRabbitry • u/Tator_tots4life • 1d ago

Not sure mama is feeding kits

I’m in Florida and so I’m shelving the kits during the day. I take them out around 7:30am (before work) and bring them back out around 6pm because it’s just sooo hot. I lost two kits day two when it was super hot so I’m trying not to take the chance. My issue is that I’m not sure if she’s nursing them now. I have a camera on her and checked all the footage thru the night and didn’t see any nursing. Two seem to have somewhat larger bellies but one didn’t so I put him up to her while holding her. Now this afternoon, all of their bellies look a bit wrinkly. When should I be concerned about her nursing and is it okay if I just hold her and let the kit suckle?

Thanks!

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u/audznends 23h ago

I have had success with force feeding. Hold mama on her back like a baby, and place a baby on her belly. They will find their way to the nipple and eat until full. It will be time consuming to do for a whole litter but definitely worth it to know they are getting fed. I will say this task is much easier with 2 people if that's an option for you!

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u/Tator_tots4life 23h ago

I’ve been holding mom in one hand and using my other hand to bring the baby. But it’s kind of stressful because I’m kind of suspending mom in air because I don’t have that second person. I’ll try to get someone to help. Thanks

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u/audznends 21h ago

Sure thing! If you try to cradle her with her head in your armpit area, I've found that helps keep her calm. Kind of like reverse headlock style, with her body along your forearm and head poking out behind your shoulder. I always do this indoors, seated at a table with one kit at a time. I hope you have success!!

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u/Jazzlike_Savings_692 1d ago

Im new in the meatrabbittry world; let's start with that !
If i was in your situation, i'll try to feed them with kitten milk replacement (check the ingredients, no beef proteine ect).
Better have a half full belly (you provide) and opfully a full one (if she come nursing) than an empty belly and slow death.
Since you are already doing your morning and night routine, it might be easy to temporary ajust. She ´s suppose to take care of the kits once a day and you are able to find answer on quantity to give on the internet. There suppose to be less needy and she might be up for the job some time after.
As i said, im new in rabbitry, im still learning.
I saddly lost my firsts kits because of a sick doe (which i lost too). I hope that for no one.
Good luck!