When rabbits fail to reproduce

-What makes rabbits fail to reproduce?
-Failure to conceive despite being sexually active.

Rabbit breeds of medium to large size are sexually mature at 4 to 4.5 months, giant breeds at 6 to 9 months, and small breeds (such as the Polish Dwarf and Dutch) at 3.5 to 4 months of age.

The release of eggs in female rabbits is triggered by sexual intercourse, not by a cycle of hormones as humans. Contrary to popular belief, the rabbit has a cycle of mating receptivity.

Rabbits are receptive to mating about 14 of every 16 days. A doe is most receptive when the vagina is red and moist. Does (adult female rabbits) that are not receptive have a whitish pink vaginal color with little or no moisture.

Does can become quite territorial and this has to be taken into account when planning any matings. It is advisable to take the doe to the buck rather than the other way round.

Note that rabbits do not conceive if kept in dark cages, since their production resembles that of chicken that lay eggs only when there is enough light. Also check on the cage temperatures because with too much heat, the buck produces less viable sperm and the conception rate goes down.

Source: Daily Nation
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