Rabbit farming is growing in Uganda because rabbits multiply quickly, need little space and produce lean, healthy white meat. Rabbit urine and droppings also earn money as organic fertilizer and pesticide.
Popular breeds
- New Zealand White: fast growing meat breed
- Californian: good meat yield
- Flemish Giant: large body size
- Chinchilla: meat and fur
- Crosses with local rabbits for hardiness
Housing
Use raised hutches made of wood and wire mesh, with a roof that keeps out rain and direct sun. Each adult needs its own cage. Collect urine with a sloping tray or gutter below the cages.
Feeding
Rabbits eat grasses, sweet potato vines, Calliandra, Desmodium, cabbage leaves and rabbit pellets. Avoid wet or mouldy feed. Give clean water at all times.
Breeding
Does are ready to breed at about five to six months. Pregnancy lasts about 30 days and litters often have six to eight kits. A doe can kindle several times a year.
Health
Common problems are diarrhoea, mange, coccidiosis and pneumonia. Keep cages clean and dry, introduce feed changes slowly and isolate sick animals.
Markets
- Hotels, restaurants and supermarkets
- Farmers buying breeding stock
- Organic farmers buying rabbit urine and manure
- Schools and households wanting healthy meat
The market is still developing, so find buyers first and consider adding value by slaughtering and packaging.
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