To complete Activity 3 for the
Show Rabbit Project, simply click
on one of the activities below.

	Option 1. Examine the nutrition of various rabbit feeds
	Option 2. Develop a fedding program for your rabbits
	Option 3. Develop a conditioning plan for your rabbits

Reference Literature

The Domestic Rabbit
(Book; Section 3)

The Rabbit
(Book; Chapter 2)

 

 

 

 

Introduction
Prior to starting this section you should be familiar with the basic nutritional requirements for rabbits which were covered in the third activity in the Pet Rabbit Project. If you have not already done so, complete Activity 3: Nutrition for Pet Rabbits from the Pet Rabbit Project.

This next section will focus on conditioning a rabbit for a show. In show rabbit jargon, conditioning a rabbit refers to putting the animal on a complex feeding schedule in order to prepare the animal's coat and body composition for the show. The rabbit is placed on a high fat and energy rabbit during the first stage, then the energy content is reduced but the fat is maintained to finish, or give luster to the rabbit’s coat. 

Basic Nutritional Requirements:

It is crucial that you have an appropriate feeder and water source, in addition to a well-balanced pelleted feed and clean water for your rabbit(s).

Base Feed
The pelleted feed that you give to your rabbit every day is also known as the base feed, since it makes up the base of the rabbit's diet. The base feed should be a well-balanced, commercial feed pellet that has the following nutritional component percentages:

16% protein
2-3% fat
Minimum 16%-18% fiber

The next section will discuss special considerations when dealing with young weaned rabbits (also called kits).