Can I Move Newborn Rabbits? Expert Guidance
It is generally not recommended to move newborn rabbits unless absolutely necessary due to immediate danger, as the mother may abandon them. However, if relocation is essential, it must be done with extreme care, minimizing scent transfer and ensuring their nest remains intact.
Moving newborn rabbits is a delicate issue with potential consequences for their survival. As a veterinarian specializing in rabbit care for over 20 years, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of human intervention, both positive and negative. Understanding the risks and appropriate procedures is crucial when deciding whether – and how – to move a litter of baby rabbits. This article provides a comprehensive guide to navigating this complex situation.
Why You Might Consider Moving Newborn Rabbits
While leaving them undisturbed is the ideal scenario, there are situations where intervention is unavoidable. These might include:
- Nest Disturbance: Accidental destruction of the nest by pets, weather, or human activity.
- Predator Threat: Evidence of predators near the nest, such as dogs, cats, or wild animals.
- Abandonment: Clear signs of the mother rabbit neglecting her young, such as a consistent failure to nurse or provide warmth. (Note: Mother rabbits only feed their young once or twice a day, so brief absences are normal).
- Environmental Hazards: Exposure to flooding, extreme temperatures, or toxic substances.
The Risks of Moving Newborn Rabbits
The primary risk is maternal abandonment. Mother rabbits rely heavily on scent to identify their young. Introducing foreign scents, even your own, can cause the mother to reject the entire litter. Other risks include:
- Stress: The relocation process itself can be extremely stressful for both the newborns and the mother.
- Temperature Regulation: Newborn rabbits are highly susceptible to temperature fluctuations and can easily become hypothermic.
- Injury: Handling delicate newborn rabbits incorrectly can lead to injury.
- Disease Transmission: Moving them increases the risk of exposing them to new pathogens.
The Process of Moving Newborn Rabbits (If Absolutely Necessary)
If you must move newborn rabbits, follow these steps carefully to minimize risk:
- Assess the Situation: Determine if moving is truly necessary. Observe the nest for at least 24 hours to confirm abandonment or an imminent threat.
- Prepare a New Nest: Choose a safe, sheltered location near the original nest. Use a box or basket lined with the original nesting material (fur, grass, leaves). Add extra clean, soft bedding.
- Minimize Scent Transfer: Wear gloves (nitrile or latex) to handle the babies. Consider rubbing your gloves with some of the original nesting material or a small amount of soil from the area to mask your scent.
- Gently Move the Babies: Carefully pick up each newborn, supporting its entire body. Place them gently into the new nest. Ensure they are all nestled together for warmth.
- Return the Mother (If Possible): If the mother is still around, try to encourage her to relocate to the new nest. Place her near the entrance. Do NOT force her.
- Monitor Closely: Observe the mother’s behavior for signs of acceptance (nursing, grooming). Watch the babies for signs of thriving (weight gain, activity).
- Intervene if Necessary: If the mother rejects the babies, or if they show signs of distress (coldness, lethargy, failure to gain weight), contact a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian immediately.
What To Do If You Find Baby Rabbits in Your Yard
Many people find seemingly abandoned baby rabbits in their yards and automatically assume they need rescuing. However, this is often not the case. Wild rabbits often leave their young alone during the day, returning only briefly at dawn and dusk to feed them. Before intervening, consider these points:
- Visible Signs of Neglect: Are the babies thin, weak, and cold to the touch? Is the nest scattered or destroyed?
- Mother’s Absence: Have you observed the mother returning to the nest at any time? Set up a camera to monitor the situation.
- General Health: Are the babies injured or showing signs of illness?
If you are unsure, contact a wildlife rehabilitator for guidance. Often, the best course of action is to simply leave them alone.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-Handling: Excessive handling increases stress and the risk of scent transfer.
- Moving Too Far: Relocating the nest too far from the original site reduces the chances of the mother finding it.
- Using Artificial Scents: Avoid using perfumes, lotions, or strong-smelling soaps when handling the babies.
- Assuming Abandonment Too Quickly: Mother rabbits only nurse their young for a few minutes a day, typically at dawn and dusk. Don’t assume they’re abandoned simply because you haven’t seen the mother.
- Providing Cow’s Milk: Never feed newborn rabbits cow’s milk. It can cause severe digestive problems. If supplemental feeding is required, use a specialized rabbit milk replacer formula recommended by a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator.
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| :————————– | :—————————————————————————– |
| Over-Handling | Maternal abandonment, stress |
| Moving Too Far | Failure of mother to relocate |
| Using Artificial Scents | Maternal abandonment |
| Assuming Abandonment Too Soon | Unnecessary intervention |
| Providing Cow’s Milk | Digestive problems, potentially fatal |
Caring for Orphaned Newborn Rabbits
If, despite your best efforts, the mother rabbit abandons her young or if they are truly orphaned, providing care becomes a challenging but necessary undertaking. This requires specialized knowledge and dedication. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator first. They have the experience and resources to give the babies the best chance of survival. If you must care for them yourself, consult with a veterinarian knowledgeable about rabbit care. This will involve:
- Providing warmth: Keep them warm using a heating pad set on low, wrapped in a towel.
- Feeding: Use a specialized rabbit milk replacer formula, feeding frequently in small amounts.
- Stimulating elimination: Gently rub their abdomen with a warm, damp cloth after each feeding to stimulate urination and defecation.
- Hygiene: Keep their environment clean to prevent infections.
Remember, raising orphaned newborn rabbits is a complex process with a high mortality rate. Seeking professional help is always the best option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if I accidentally touched a newborn rabbit? Will the mother reject it?
Not necessarily. If you accidentally touch a newborn rabbit, gently wipe it with a soft cloth that has been rubbed against the nest or the mother rabbit (if available) to transfer her scent back onto the baby. Monitor the mother’s behavior carefully. In many cases, she will still accept the baby.
How can I tell if a baby rabbit is being fed?
A well-fed baby rabbit will have a rounded belly and appear active and content. If you gently palpate their abdomen, it should feel soft and slightly full. A thin, sunken belly is a sign of malnutrition.
What do I do if I find a rabbit nest in my dog’s or cat’s play area?
If possible, temporarily restrict your pet’s access to the area where the nest is located. If this is not feasible, consider carefully moving the nest a short distance to a safer location, following the guidelines outlined above. Weigh the risk of moving them against the risk of your pet harming them.
Can I move newborn rabbits if it’s raining heavily?
Yes, if the nest is becoming flooded or saturated, you should carefully move the babies to a drier location nearby. Hypothermia is a significant threat in wet conditions.
Is it better to leave the rabbits alone, even if the nest is exposed?
It depends on the level of exposure. If the nest is only partially exposed and the weather is mild, it’s generally best to leave them alone. However, if the nest is fully exposed to harsh weather conditions (extreme heat, cold, or rain), consider providing some temporary shelter by covering the nest loosely with a breathable material like burlap.
How long do baby rabbits stay in the nest?
Baby rabbits typically leave the nest when they are around 3-4 weeks old. At this age, they are fully furred, have their eyes open, and are able to eat solid food.
What should I feed orphaned newborn rabbits?
Never feed cow’s milk. Use a commercially available rabbit milk replacer formula, such as Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR), although specialized rabbit formulas are preferable. Consult with a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator for specific feeding instructions.
How often should I feed orphaned newborn rabbits?
Newborn rabbits typically need to be fed every 4-6 hours in the early days. As they grow, the feeding frequency can be reduced. Again, consult with a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator for specific feeding instructions based on the age and size of the babies.
What is the best way to keep newborn rabbits warm?
A heating pad set on low and wrapped in a towel is an effective way to provide warmth. Ensure the babies have enough space to move away from the heat source if they become too warm. Regularly check their temperature to ensure they are not too cold or too hot. Aim for a consistent ambient temperature.
What are the signs of illness in newborn rabbits?
Signs of illness include lethargy, loss of appetite, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and discharge from the eyes or nose. If you notice any of these signs, seek veterinary care immediately.
Can I release orphaned rabbits back into the wild?
Releasing orphaned rabbits back into the wild is a complex issue. Rabbits raised in captivity may lack the necessary skills to survive. Consult with a wildlife rehabilitator to determine if release is appropriate and to prepare the rabbits for a successful transition.
Can I keep a wild rabbit as a pet?
It is generally not recommended to keep a wild rabbit as a pet. Wild rabbits have specific needs that are difficult to meet in a domestic setting. Furthermore, in many jurisdictions, it is illegal to possess or keep wild animals without the proper permits. It is much better to adopt a domesticated rabbit from a reputable breeder or rescue organization.