In the sweltering summer, when temperatures exceed 30°C, rabbits are highly susceptible to a range of adverse physiological and psychological effects, which can even lead to death in severe cases. To minimize losses, the following strategies should be implemented promptly and effectively.
First, effective cooling measures are essential. Farmers can apply various methods based on their specific conditions to combat the heat. One approach is manual misting with cold water, especially during midday when temperatures are at their peak. Using a high-pressure nebulizer, cold well water can be sprayed every 2 to 4 hours depending on the indoor temperature, typically reducing the room temperature by 4 to 7°C. Additionally, sprinkling water on the floor can enhance evaporation and heat dissipation. However, it's crucial to open windows and doors simultaneously to ensure proper ventilation. Without adequate airflow, the heat will persist and worsen the situation. Increasing fan power and switching from horizontal to longitudinal ventilation can also improve air circulation, helping to remove body heat more efficiently. Combining these methods with water spraying yields the best results.
Second, improving feeding and management practices is key to strengthening the rabbit’s health and enhancing its ability to regulate body temperature. Reducing feed quantity while increasing nutrient concentration helps meet the rabbits’ needs despite their reduced appetite in hot weather. Ensuring sufficient protein, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients is critical. Feeding times should be adjusted—more feed should be offered in the early morning and late evening when rabbits are more active and have better appetites. Green feeds should be increased, and moldy or damp feed must be avoided. Adding supplements like vitamin C, E, K, B2, biotin, bacitracin, and others to the diet can help mitigate heat stress. In drinking water, baking soda, bromide buffers, and other electrolytes can also be added. Another helpful practice is feeding chopped watermelon rind (about 50 grams per rabbit daily, divided into three meals) to aid in cooling and improve heat resistance.
Third, breeding during summer should be carefully managed. High temperatures can reduce feed intake, leading to weakened physical condition. Male rabbits may experience poor semen quality, azoospermia, or dead sperm, while females may face miscarriages or weak offspring. Lactation is also affected, resulting in less milk and fewer nursing kits. Moreover, high humidity hinders pup growth. Therefore, breeding is generally not recommended during summer unless the environment can maintain a temperature below 28°C.
Fourth, disease prevention is vital. Common summer diseases include enteritis, salmonellosis, clostridiosis, coccidiosis, rickets, and heatstroke. Vaccinations such as those for mucoid enteritis, salmonella, and clostridium can be administered before the hot season begins. Medications like garlic, oxytetracycline, alkaline powder, and chlorophthalein tablets can also be used in feed or water. If a rabbit shows signs of heatstroke, it should be moved to a cool, ventilated area immediately. Applying cold compresses to the head and massaging the tail tip can help. Administering 4–5 tablets of Dan (a traditional remedy) can speed up recovery. Most heatstroke cases respond well to prompt treatment.
By implementing these comprehensive strategies, farmers can significantly reduce the impact of summer heat on their rabbit population and ensure better health and productivity.
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