Summer weight gain decrease?

[Intruder55]

Hello,

Do any of you notice your young rabbits' weight gain slowing down in the summer? I have some rabbits I am raising for meat (none are commercial breeds) and their weight gain is agonizingly slow - slower than their parents (whom I tracked in Jan-April). Some aren't gaining at all. Could this be because of hot weather? I am in Savannah, GA, and we are averaging full summer temps already (85-90+). Or do I need to butcher everything and get commercial breeders? Thanks!

 

[Hutch]

Yes, less weight gain in the summer heat. One local breeder told me he is more likely to lose rabbits due to digestive issues too. They breed in the summer, I don't. I cut back on feed in the heat. More hay, briars, etc, no watery greens.

Commercial breeds are for you if that is what you want. Don't expect a huge difference. MPG threads and bunny weight gain threads bring out the fish stories.

We have summer weather here too. Just waiting for the calendar to catch up. On the gulf coast breeding season is over until fall.

 

[Intruder55]

Thanks very much for your reply!