05/25/2026
Let's discuss the realities of rabbit maintenance and care. Who can resist adorable baby bunny pictures and poses? However, it's essential to delve deeper. My day commenced at 8 am with a cage inspection, as we have expecting does. And, to my surprise, my mini lop kindled 6 kits, followed by a seventh. This was a welcome development. I examined the new rabbits, provided them with water, feed, and bene bac gel to alleviate stress. Subsequently, I initiated cage cleaning but only completed three-quarters of the first 20 cages before my grandson interrupted, distressed about baby chicks being killed. I ceased cleaning and proceeded to the barn to investigate a nest behind some Styrofoam boards. As I was about to exit, I was instructed to freeze, and my initial thought was, of course, a snake. However, it was a sick juvenile raccoon behind me. We waited 35 minutes for the animal relocation specialist, and upon arrival, the raccoon vacated its cozy tire bed. It was captured in a fishing net and removed. The raccoon was indeed ill. Consequently, all the dogs require distemper booster and rabies shots. This unexpected event added significant expense. After this excitement, I resumed cage cleaning. Regrettably, my last Flemish/Champagne cross kit had died while we were outside. I examined the kit, observed a bit of messy poopy butt, and administered medication. All the rabbits in the surrounding cages, the litter, and the mother were treated for coccidia. These kits are approaching weaning age. This situation has been addressed. I continued cleaning and finished the last 8 cages by 7 pm. Other than the 2 to 3 hours spent on other tasks, the day was primarily devoted to deep cleaning cages and the rabbitry. Night feeding has yet to be completed and will be done around 8 pm, after securing the coop. It has been a chaotic day, to say the least. Who needs coffee when you have rabbits and raccoons to keep you on your toes?
