When should I wean the kits?

[natem]

My NZW doe gave birth to 9 kits. I wanted to squeeze in 2 litters this summer, so I was planning on rebreeding at 4 weeks and weaning at 6 weeks. Does this sound good? Also, should I split the bucks and does? I am butchering at 12 weeks and I dont know if they can breed each other before that time. Thanks!

 

[brentr]

If you re-breed at 4 weeks and wean at 6 you'll be fine. You might even find the doe has weaned them herself completely by six weeks. Just picture 9 six week old bunnies trying to get under mom for a drink - not too many does would put up with that!

As for splitting your grow out bunnies, I wouldn't worry about it. I have had very little noticeable breeding behavior in my 12 week old butcher rabbits. Sexual maturity at 12 weeks is uncommon, and since you're butchering at that age, there is nothing for you to be concerned with.