In recent years, the price of Rex rabbit pelts has experienced a significant decline due to various factors. In early November 2007, prices dropped by 25-30% compared to the same period in the previous year. A high-quality Rex rabbit weighing over 6 kg could only fetch between $50 and $55, representing a drop of 30-35% from the previous year. This sharp decline led to economic losses for many rabbit farmers. In response, some adopted unwise methods to cut feeding costs and increase production volume, which resulted in poor fur quality and lower pass rates. Many rabbits were not able to meet the standards for high-quality pelts, and as a result, farmers struggled to sell their products at competitive prices.
One major issue is the lack of purebred stock. Some rabbits have short, thin fur that doesn't meet market demands, leading to low prices—often between 15-25 yuan per pelt, or even just a few dollars for subpar skins. Many farmers fail to conduct proper research or stay informed about market trends. When prices are high, they tend to keep breeding stock without proper selection, leading to a decline in overall quality. Additionally, some households lack scientific breeding knowledge, resulting in offspring that are weaker and less desirable than the first generation.
Nutritional deficiencies also play a key role. Due to fluctuating prices, some farmers mistakenly believe that rabbits only need grass. They neglect to provide balanced feed with adequate protein, amino acids, and vitamins. Some even avoid using soybean meal or peanut cake, and skip adding vitamin supplements entirely. Without proper nutrition, it's nearly impossible to raise healthy, high-quality rabbits. When prices rise, they can sell them, but when prices fall, they struggle to make a profit. The question remains: how much money can you really make raising such rabbits?
Poor management practices further worsen the situation. Some farmers rely on outdated or unscientific methods, believing that more rabbits mean more profit. However, this approach leads to overcrowding, poor hygiene, and unsanitary living conditions. Lack of clean water, improper waste disposal, and poor ventilation create an environment where diseases thrive. Rabbits suffer from respiratory and digestive issues, and young ones are especially vulnerable, leading to high mortality rates. In some cases, rabbit farms have become almost empty due to these problems.
Inbreeding is another serious problem. Many farmers don’t replace breeding males regularly, leading to genetic degradation. Some also breed females too early, often within just a month after reaching sexual maturity. This results in weak, underdeveloped offspring that are difficult to raise to full quality. The cycle continues, with each generation performing worse than the last.
Finally, premature slaughter is a common issue. Some farmers prioritize weight over fur quality, slaughtering rabbits before their coats are fully developed. Rex rabbits are typically raised for 5-6 months to achieve optimal fur quality. Slaughtering too early leads to thin, sparse fur and poor skin texture. Farmers should aim to sell based on fur quality, seasonal demand, and market conditions to maximize their returns. By improving breeding practices, nutrition, and management, rabbit farmers can better adapt to market fluctuations and ensure long-term profitability.
Shandong Changchongyun Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd. , https://www.ccyparking.com