Rabbit pregnancy

[user 17782]

So yesterday I discovered a surprise litter from one of my does. She was housed with a male as breeding was my intention, as well as one other doe. They have since been separated and the babies are doing well so far. I had been checking the does for pregnancy but never felt any lumps, so my question is are there any other ways to tell if she's pregnant? Is there a specific spot I should be palpating? The other doe that hasn't had a litter yet looks a little rounder but I don't feel any lumps. Is it possible that she isn't pregnant and has just put on winter weight? I want to be prepared for her litter so that I don't have to move her and her kits like I had to do with my other doe.

 

[majorv]

Typically when you breed, its planned. You put the doe and buck together and watch. That way you know when to expect a litter, assuming the doe took. If you don't know how to palpate then it's best not to try. Get a breeder to show you where to feel. You can look on YouTube for videos, but 'in person' instruction is the best way to learn.