Protein Percentage and Brand

[kuntrygirl]

What percentage of protein (feed) do you feed your rabbits? What name brand feed do you use?

 

[that's*satyrical]

We are new to rabbits but we use the Manna Pro. They seem to like it & are growing well. The breeder we got them from used it as well & she is very experienced with rabbits.

 

[that's*satyrical]

It is the Pro version 16% looks like when they are growing or nursing you use the Gro version 18%

 

[kuntrygirl]

Someone mentioned to me Manna Pro 18% but I can't find 18% in my area that I can feed to my bucks. The only 18% protein feed that I found says only to feed to mamas and babies.

 

[hemet dennis]

The bucks don't need 18%

 

[kuntrygirl]

The bucks don't need 18%

Thank you for letting me know. Someone told me to feed them 18%.

 

[hemet dennis]

When they're babys yes after no.

 

[brentr]

Generally speaking, 15 - 18% protein range is appropriate for any age rabbit - baby on up to adult. 18% protein is a little better for a nursing doe, or a rabbit that needs to improve body condition. However, 15% protein works just fine in most cases. I've raised several does/litters and finished pens of meat rabbits to slaughter weight on nothing but 15% pellets and had no issues.

Some people are more concerned about the composition of the pellet than the protein percentage. Read the label. Some list dehydrated alfalfa meal as the first ingredient; some list forage products. The alfalfa meal pellet will be a little higher quality - hold together better, less fines/dust in the bag, etc.

I personally let my wallet influence my rabbit feed and haven't had any issues yet. I just blend the last bit of the old bag into the top of the new bag for the transition.

I buy my feed at Tractor Supply Co. Producers Pride 15% is usually the most economical. I do buy 16% Manna Pro when it is on sale and it is as cheap or cheaper than Producers Pride.

I am a backyard meat rabbit operation. People who show rabbits will have different opinions based on feeding their stock to be in prime show condition.

 

[SarahMelisse]

Unfortunately, our feed store only carries one type/brand of rabbit pellets. "Farmers Best" brand has 16% protein and our rabbits have long soft (angora) coats. I'd love to be able to have access to a more specialized variety of feeds, but it's just a mom & pop shop and there aren't many rabbit owners in this area to create the demand. For now "Farmers Best" is just fine.

 

[kuntrygirl]

Thanks for all of the information everyone.