So, you’ve found yourself in a bunny-sized predicament. Mama rabbit isn’t producing milk, and now you’re looking at a nest of tiny, wiggly, utterly helpless baby bunnies who are counting on you to save the day. First, take a deep breath. Yes, this is a big responsibility, but you’ve got this. With a little knowledge, patience, and care, you can give those precious kits the best chance at thriving.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about feeding baby bunnies when their mother can’t. From understanding their nutritional needs to mastering the art of hand-feeding, we’ll walk you through it step by step.
Why Isn’t Mama Rabbit Producing Milk?
Before diving into the “how-to,” let’s address the “why.” A mama rabbit (called a doe) might not produce milk for several reasons:
1.Stress: Rabbits are sensitive creatures, and even small changes—like a noisy environment or too much handling—can affect milk production.
2.Health issues: Conditions like mastitis (inflammation of the mammary glands) or other illnesses can prevent a doe from nursing.
3.First-time moms: New does might be confused about what to do or take longer to produce milk.
4.Malnutrition: If the mother isn’t getting enough food or water, her body might not produce milk.
If you suspect health issues, it’s always a good idea to consult a rabbit-savvy vet.
What Do Baby Bunnies Need?
Baby bunnies (or kits) rely entirely on their mother’s milk for the first few weeks of life. It’s rich in nutrients and antibodies that help them grow strong and fight off infections. If mama isn’t producing milk, your job is to provide a safe, nutritious substitute.
Key nutritional needs:
• High fat content
• Protein-rich formula
• Vitamins and minerals essential for growth
Regular cow’s milk won’t cut it—it’s too low in fat and doesn’t have the nutrients baby bunnies need. Instead, you’ll need to use a specialized formula.
What to Feed Baby Bunnies
For orphaned or milk-deprived kits, these are your best options:
1.Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR): Sold at pet stores, this is one of the most commonly used substitutes.
2.Goat’s Milk: Available at grocery stores, goat’s milk is a natural alternative that’s easier for baby bunnies to digest than cow’s milk.
3.Homemade Formula: If you can’t get KMR or goat’s milk, you can mix:
• 1 part goat’s milk
• 1 part heavy cream (to increase fat content)
Important: Always feed the formula warm (not hot!). Test it on the inside of your wrist—it should feel slightly warm, like baby formula.
How to Feed Baby Bunnies
Now comes the delicate part: actually feeding the kits. It’s not as simple as holding out a bottle and letting them guzzle away. Bunnies are fragile, and improper feeding can lead to aspiration (when milk gets into their lungs) or other health issues.
Follow these steps for safe feeding:
1.Gather your supplies:
• A small syringe (1-2 ml size works best) or a kitten feeding bottle.
• The prepared formula.
2.Prepare the kits:
• Place the bunny on their belly. Never feed them on their back—this can cause choking.
• Hold them gently but securely.
3.Feed slowly:
• Insert the syringe or nipple into the side of their mouth.
• Let the bunny suckle at their own pace. Never force milk into their mouth.
4.Feed the right amount:
• Baby bunnies need very small amounts of formula:
•Newborns (days 1-2): 2-2.5 ml per feeding, twice a day.
•3-6 days old: 5-7 ml per feeding, twice a day.
•7-10 days old: 7-13 ml per feeding, twice a day.
•10-14 days old: 13-15 ml per feeding, twice a day.
5.Clean up:
• Wipe the bunny’s face gently with a damp cloth to remove any milk residue.
Stimulating Baby Bunnies to Eliminate
Here’s something you might not know: baby bunnies can’t pee or poop on their own for the first couple of weeks. Normally, their mom stimulates them by licking their bottoms.
Since you’re playing mama bunny, you’ll need to step in here (don’t worry, it’s not as gross as it sounds).
1.Use a soft cloth or cotton ball: Moisten it with warm water.
2.Gently rub their genital area: This mimics their mother’s tongue and encourages them to eliminate.
3.Do this after every feeding.
It might feel strange at first, but it’s essential for their health and comfort.
Caring for the Nest
Feeding is just one part of the equation. Baby bunnies need a warm, cozy environment to thrive. Without their mother’s body heat, it’s up to you to create the perfect nest.
Here’s how:
• Use a small box lined with soft, clean bedding (like fleece or hay).
• Keep the temperature around 85-90°F for newborns. You can use a heating pad set on low, but make sure the bunnies can move away from the heat if they get too warm.
• Place the nest in a quiet, draft-free area to reduce stress.
As the kits grow, you can gradually lower the temperature and introduce them to more spacious living areas.
Signs Your Baby Bunnies Are Thriving
Caring for baby bunnies can be nerve-wracking, but there are a few key signs that you’re doing a great job:
•Full, round bellies: After feeding, their tummies should feel slightly firm, not bloated.
•Active and wiggly: Healthy kits will move around and respond to touch.
•Steady weight gain: Weigh the bunnies daily using a kitchen scale. They should gain a small but steady amount of weight each day.
If you notice lethargy, lack of appetite, or weight loss, consult a vet immediately.
When to Introduce Solid Foods
Around 3 weeks old, baby bunnies will start to nibble on solid foods. This is an exciting milestone, but it’s important to introduce new foods gradually.
Start with:
• Fresh, pesticide-free hay (like timothy or alfalfa for young bunnies).
• Fresh greens (parsley, cilantro, or romaine lettuce).
• Pellets formulated for young rabbits.
Make sure they still have access to formula until they’re fully weaned (around 6-8 weeks old).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, mistakes can happen. Here are some common ones to watch out for:
1.Overfeeding: Giving too much formula at once can cause bloating or aspiration. Follow the recommended amounts.
2.Feeding cold milk: Always warm the formula to avoid chilling their tiny systems.
3.Using the wrong syringe or nipple: Too large of an opening can cause milk to flow too fast, increasing the risk of choking.
4.Neglecting hygiene: Wash your hands and feeding tools thoroughly to prevent infections.
When to Call for Help
Raising baby bunnies is a big responsibility, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. Reach out to a rabbit-savvy vet or local wildlife rescue if:
• The bunnies aren’t eating or gaining weight.
• You notice signs of illness, like diarrhea or lethargy.
• You feel overwhelmed and need guidance.
Remember, you’re not alone in this!
Final Thoughts
Taking care of baby bunnies when their mother can’t is no small task, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding experience. With the right tools, patience, and a little bit of love, you can give those tiny fluffballs the best possible start in life.
And while it might seem overwhelming at first, trust yourself. Every feeding, every snuggle, and every moment spent caring for them is a step toward their bright, bouncy future.
So roll up your sleeves, grab that tiny syringe, and show those kits just how much love a human can give. They’re lucky to have you—and trust us, you’ll feel pretty lucky too.
Share