Choose a rabbit to look at four to watch
1HDD 5ch NVR,1HDD 10ch PSE NVR,1HDD 5ch PSE NVR,2MP Fixed IR Omni Camera Tiandy Technologies CO.,LTD , https://en.tiandy.com
1. Examine the pedigree to determine whether a complete pedigree profile is necessary. Typically, the pedigree records details such as ear number, origin, birth date, coat color, body weight, growth performance, and reproductive history across 3-5 generations of rabbits. The rabbits being purchased should be offspring of high-quality stock, displaying typical traits of their breed. Ensure there is no inbreeding between males. The age should be between 2 to 4 months, with a weight ranging from 1200 to 2500 grams. Rabbits weighing less than 1000 grams have a lower survival rate. It's essential to verify the rabbit's age using physical indicators like weight, teeth, paws, and overall development to avoid purchasing older animals.
2. Before examining the seven key areas (eyes, nose, mouth, ears, anus, genitalia, and limbs), start by checking the front view. Healthy rabbits have bright, clear eyes without discharge. Any signs of dullness, half-closed eyes, redness, swelling, or discharge indicate illness. A healthy rabbit’s nose should be clean and breathing should be normal. Excessive mucus, difficulty breathing, or sneezing are signs of infection. The oral cavity should show normal mucous membranes, no ulcers or redness, and properly aligned teeth. The mouth should be clean with no foul odor or debris.
Next, check the rear view focusing on the anus and genitalia. The anal area should be clean, free from fecal matter, and without brown stains around the fur. Gently press along the rectum to observe if 1-2 normal fecal pellets are expelled. Loose or deformed stools may indicate gastrointestinal issues. If no stool is present, check for hard feces in the abdomen, which could signal constipation. Gently tap the genital area to confirm the sex of the rabbit. The genitalia should be clean, with no swelling, lumps, ulcers, or pus.
3. Observe the abdomen from a distance. Count the number of teats; there should be more than 8. Fewer than 8 may make the rabbit unsuitable for breeding. In male rabbits, the testicles should be symmetrical, elastic, and the scrotum clean, with no signs of swelling or sores. Avoid adult males that are too thin or overly fat. Stand 2-3 meters away and watch the rabbit’s posture. If it avoids touching the ground or limps, it may suffer from foot problems or dermatitis. Frequent ear shaking or constant paw scratching might suggest hearing loss. If the hind legs drag or move awkwardly, it could indicate a spinal issue. Lift the rabbit and drop it from 30 cm above the ground to see if it lands steadily.
4. Check the four-point line: the spine and legs. The spine should be straight, not protruding or sunken. The back muscles should be well-developed, with the spine not visible. A slightly curved back is normal. If the spine appears raised and bony, resembling an abacus or triangle, the rabbit may be underweight or suffering from chronic diseases. If the spine is sunken and the sides are bulging, forming a saddle shape, the rabbit may be overweight, leading to reproductive issues and unsuitability for breeding.
Check the lower limbs. The feet should be thickly furred, with intact skin and no abscesses or sores. Young rabbits’ feet should be covered in fur, with short, straight toes. The claws should extend beyond the tips of the toes, but ensure they haven’t been trimmed. Claws must be clean, free from scabs, and watch for early signs of warts.