Why do people raise rabbits?
Some people raise rabbits for meat, some for fur or wool, and some for show or as pets. Rabbits need little land and are quiet, which makes them attractive on small lots. Breeds differ in size, growth and coat, so match the breed to your purpose.
Be honest about your goals. Raising animals for food is emotional for many families, and it helps to talk it through with everyone involved before you start. Children in the home should understand where the animals are headed.
Visit a breeder or a county fair barn to see adult rabbits up close and ask about daily routines. Hands on time teaches more than reading.
- Meat breeds that grow steadily
- Fiber breeds that need grooming
- Show breeds with strict standards
- Pet rabbits that will not be bred
What housing do rabbits need?
Hutches should be sturdy, predator proof, dry and easy to clean. Wire floors, solid floors or a mix each have pros and cons, and keepers argue about them. Ask your extension office or an experienced local breeder what works in your climate.
Place hutches where they get shade and airflow but stay out of wind and rain. Raccoons and dogs can reach through weak wire, so use strong materials and good latches.
Clean droppings and soiled bedding under hutches often, since ammonia and flies are common complaints. Keep manure away from wells and waterways.
How do I protect them from heat and cold?
Rabbits handle cold better than heat. High temperatures can kill them quickly, so shade, airflow and cool water are essential in summer. Ask your extension office what temperatures concern keepers in your area.
In winter, keep bedding dry and block drafts, but do not seal the hutch so tightly that air stops moving. Water bottles and bowls must not freeze.
Watch for signs of heat stress such as lying stretched out, fast breathing or wet nose and mouth, and call a vet right away if you see them.
- Shade and cross breeze
- Fresh water checked several times a day
- Frozen water bottle or tile in hot weather as advised locally
- Dry bedding and wind protection in winter
What do rabbits eat?
Rabbits need hay for their digestion and teeth, plus pellets made for rabbits, and clean water. Sudden diet changes can upset their gut and become serious fast. Introduce new foods slowly and ask a vet which fresh foods are safe.
Keep feed dry and stored away from rodents. Moldy hay or pellets can make rabbits sick.
A rabbit that eats too many sugary or starchy treats can develop digestion trouble. Keep treats small and rare.
What health problems do rabbits have?
Rabbits hide illness until they are quite sick. Watch for changes in appetite, droppings, breathing, eyes and behavior. A rabbit that stops eating or passing droppings needs prompt attention from a vet who treats rabbits.
Some serious rabbit diseases spread between animals and are tracked by state and federal agencies. Ask your vet and state veterinarian about reporting and about keeping new animals separate.
Learn how to handle a rabbit properly. Holding one badly can cause a spinal injury to the animal and scratches to you.
- Not eating or passing droppings
- Runny eyes or nose
- Head tilt or loss of balance
- Sore or overgrown teeth or hocks
- Dull, hunched posture
How does breeding work?
Rabbits breed readily and litters arrive often, so plan before pairing animals. Babies need a nest box, warmth and a calm doe. Ask your vet or an experienced breeder for guidance on timing and handling.
Keep records of each doe and litter. They tell you who mothers well, who has losses and which animals to keep.
If a doe does not take care of her litter, ask an experienced breeder or your vet what can be done rather than guessing.
What are the rules for processing and selling?
Rules on slaughter, selling rabbit meat or fur, and keeping rabbits vary by state and county. Contact your state department of agriculture and your county zoning office before selling or increasing your numbers.
Always handle raw meat safely and wash hands and tools. Follow USDA and CDC food safety advice for cooking and storage.
Keep clear records of births, sales and losses. Good records protect you if a question comes up about where animals came from.
- State department of agriculture
- County zoning office
- Local health department
- Processor or market rules for selling
Key takeaways
- Rabbits need sturdy, predator proof hutches with shade, airflow and clean water.
- Heat is a serious danger, so plan for summer before it arrives.
- Watch closely for subtle signs of illness and call a vet who treats rabbits.
- Check state and county rules on keeping, processing and selling.
- Keep records of every litter and sale.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Rural Farm Life Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.