Dr. Ray Mobley
Florida A&M University
Rabbits are prolific and will breed year round in well managed Rabbitries. Does have been known to kindle (give birth) up to 23 young at one time. The average litter size is eight. Rabbits usually have 4 to 5 litters per year. With proper management, rabbits can be kindled more intensively. The young are ready for market at 4 to 5 pounds. It usually takes 8 weeks to reach this weight with proper care and feeding. Rabbits have an efficient feed conversion ratio, which is the amount of feed consumed per pound of gain.
A doe can produce up to 10 times its own weight, or more in offspring per year. Rabbit meat is one of the most nutritious meats available. It is highest in protein, lowest in fat and cholesterol, has the least number of calories per pound and has only 8 percent bone.