Raising Meat Rabbits: The Ultimate Guide!

[@rexevans9935]

I've been raising rabbits since 1969 and i like watching your videos, your very informative for the people and you have a dandy setup. Keep up the great videos. Rex here in North eastern Indiana

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Hello Rex! Thank you for the kind words! Very cool that you raise Rex.

[@Donetravlin]

Hey guys, I want to raise rabbits to regenerate degraded land. I want to literally let them till the gardens. I do best I can growing their food on a rotation like rotational grazing... any thoughts?

[@ThreeAngelsAbundance]

Thanks!

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

You are welcome! Thank you!

[@haleytate1]

Great video, one of the most comprehensive videos on the subject I've watched, 👍👍👍👍👍

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@haleytate1 thank you for the kind words! I am glad you found value in it!

[@BobbyLandires]

This was a very informative video compilation. Thank you so very much for sharing your gained knowledge from decades of hard work, trial and error. Keep up the great work (I subscribed to you because you shared this).

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@BobbyLandires you are very welcome, I'm glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for the sub!

[@noid3a807]

Great video! I didn’t even notice when these 2 hours passed 😅. Great explanation and nice structured video (guide)

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Thank you very much! I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@blacksheep4000]

Agreed it was a great video and didn't even seen like 2 hours long.

[@Okiehomesteading]

Im getting into meat rabbits, this was a great video, im in muskogee!!!

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@Okiehomesteading I'm glad you enjoyed it! What breeds are you looking to raise?

[@Okiehomesteading]

@@BrokenArrowFarm307 i currently have a buck California, im actually looking for a couple California doe

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@Okiehomesteading very nice! Californians are a good breed. Good luck with your rabbit raising endeavors!

[@mrzoukdotcomzouklambadaboo8212]

I love the thoroughness of the information.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@mrzoukdotcomzouklambadaboo8212 thank you!

[@Sasha29028]

I have learned so much with your videos. Thank you

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@Sasha29028 well I appreciate that! I'm glad I was able to help out. Thank you for watching!

[@hashihashi1019]

Great video! You truly know your stuff. Thanks for all the information

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Thank you! You are welcome, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@JamBreadSpotify]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience. I have started with meat rabbits :)

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

You are welcome! Welcome to the world of meat rabbits!!!

[@alexberry3804]

A shame this man doesn't have a million subs.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@alexberry3804 well thank you for the kind words!

[@pasttime8450]

Ty for sharing i appreciate all the information. Im looking forward to getting into raising meat rabbits

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

You are welcome! I'm glad you found the video helpful! Best of luck on your rabbit raising endeavor! Be sure to check back for more rabbit videos. If you have a rabbit topic you want me to cover in a video let me know and I'll see what I can do!

[@BrianAyandaKhwane]

Great show Appreciate your knowledge Thanks to you I'm definitely going to start breeding rabbits now

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@BrianAyandaKhwane thank you! That's great! Happy rabbit raising!!

[@therealemo9045]

Is there anything you add to your water to keep the algae clear from the pipes? I made it to minute 20:34.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

I fush out the system twice a year using a high pressure hose.

[@Mid-Americabulldogs]

So much good information thank you paul.. I'm just starting having some breeding difficulties but hopfully it takes of soon.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@Mid-Americabulldogs Thank you for watching! What breed of rabbits are you raising?

[@Mid-Americabulldogs]

@BrokenArrowFarm307 currently Tamuks. i Iive in southwest Missouri on the Oklahoma Arkansas Missouri line, and found a breeder with good lines. Since it gets over 100° almost all July and August here.. I would like silver fox though

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@Mid-Americabulldogs oh that's very cool! Tamuks do look like a cool breed.

[@Mid-Americabulldogs]

@@BrokenArrowFarm307 they're supposed to be very hear tolerant the breeder said unless it gets over 110° he doesn't really even worry about the heat or sterilization..

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@Mid-Americabulldogs that's what I have heard, a very good breed for where you live!

[@shannagorbet2281]

Thank you for the video. I was wondering what the hide quality was of the rex? I am getting back into meat rabbits, but want pelts. In my past experience tanning hides myself, the color pelts were thinner and easier to rip when scraping and stretching. I had Californian, new Zealand and some mixed rescues. The spotted pelts had thicker white skin but the colored spots would be thin.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@shannagorbet2281 you are welcome! Thank you for watching The Rex hide quality is good when they are prime. However they still do have the potential to tear like any rabbit hide.

[@Consciouslightwarriors]

Thank you! I learned some tips. 😊 Our rabbits are American Chinchillas, Champagne d’argent, Creme d’argent, and black and broken New Zealands. We also have one mixed breed buck which is what we started with bc at the time I couldn’t find purebreds, but he’s actually my favorite 🤩

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Glad you learned something! Sounds like a nice herd you have there! Sometimes the mixed mutts do end up being the best!

[@brainchatter2078]

I shopping for NZ. Finding mutts at the pure breed price. Knowledge is power. So one can choose a mutt or a pure. So like a NZ with brown eyes. Is a mutt. I can get the price down if i really want her and put the effort into breeding her to NZ to get the gene of NZ pure. Which can take a long time. Your channel friend is a great, resorce of knowledge. I appreciate your channel. Thank you

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

If you really want her go for it. But if you are wanting purebred rabbits I reccomend starting with purebred rabbits from the beginning. Thank you for the kind words I'm glad you have found my channel helpful! Happy rabbit raising my friend!

[@joearceneaux9854]

Starting with good stock is worth the investment.

[@sabrinah6968]

Great video, thank you so much for taking the time to make it. I'm going to start raising meat rabbits this spring. I'm leaning towards Crème d'Argents. Where did you buy those cool swivel latches and the door hook thing?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Thank you for the kind words! I bought those cage latches from Klubertanz Equipment Co. Good luck on your critter raising endeavors!

[@sabrinah6968]

@@BrokenArrowFarm307 I saw you mention that on another video, but the website is no longer live so i was hoping it was from another source. Darn!

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@sabrinah6968 I would try back on the website in a week or so, it seems they go through website updates around the first of the year so hopefully it will be back up.

[@SV-ng8dv]

Great video. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience! At what age do you start breeding does & bucks and what age do you "retire" them?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

You are welcome, thank you for watching! I start breeding at around 6 months and retire at 3 to 5 years of age just depends on the condition on the rabbit.

[@dadontrack6641]

Enjoying the part about weaning. It seems like you’re an expert weaner 😂

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Yeah I guess you could say that I am.. 😃

[@estherzulu6680]

Thanks for the information

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

You are welcome! Thank you for watching!

[@robertocatrone715]

Outstanding video. thank you

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@robertocatrone715 Thank you!

[@patriciamuskevitsch8359]

Very informative, thank you sir.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

You are welcome! Thank you for watching!

[@Nautilus1972]

Paul does a lot of videos. Don’t just watch. Like and subscribe too … that’s it . 80% of some people’s fans don’t even subscribe. Help out the guy who’s helping you. Thanks, Paul.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Thank you!

[@marcuswalker7175]

This post is the reason I subscribed

[@derffredrickson]

And why I wont subscribe

[@johnfitbyfaithnet]

​@@marcuswalker7175 same

[@katehudgens8428]

Thanks this is so helpful ❤

[@mikealdag7309]

Just found your channel and subscribed, thank you for the video ! Been raising rabbits for a few years and have not been able to find a good recipe besides breading and frying or stew ! Anyone have any good recipes they are willing to share? Please

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Thank you for the Sub!

[@Vinlitlbit1]

Very informative for me. These videos are so helpful. I am considering raising rabbits for meat in Oklahoma. I’m currently binge watching videos to decide whether it is feasible.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Thank you for the feedback and for watching, I'm glad it helped you out! Good luck on your rabbit research and getting started with rabbits. 🐇

[@LadyGrace87]

Thank you for making this compilation! Do you offer hay, or pellets only? How much do you feed your bucks and when do you switch them from free-feed to measured amount, if you do.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

You are welcome! Thank you for watching! Bucks get about 1/2 cup of feed per day. Yes just pellets and hay. Rabbits are on full feed until about 16 weeks of age.

[@GeauxBig007]

Would you do a little short vid on the carriers you use? I'm often using travel pens that's too tall.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

That is a great idea I will work on one!

[@wifigrannyl.1354]

This video is amazing! It seems you've covered all my questions about raising rabbits. My husband and I are in our mid seventies and need to raise a meat animal that is the least amount of work. In your opinion, is it easier to raise rabbits versus chickens? Thank you for this informative video. I subscribed & plan on watching many more. We live in East Texas & hardly ever have snow but it does get very very hot here so I need to learn more about keeping the rabbits cool.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Thank you for watching and subscribing! As far as which one is easier to raise probably rabbits in my opinion.

[@ShilohHuite]

I'm trying to figure this out on my own but asking here too in case you have a chance to answer. I just checked in on my 4 day old kits and one of them has a laceration on the hind area. the hair is a little wet but I don't see any active bleeding. Should I just use something like vetericyn and hope for the best or something else I should try to do? I tried to see if you had a video on common first aid stuff but didn't see one.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@ShilohHuite that's a good question, yes try vetramicine, or a first aid ointment.

[@luckymokhoana9216]

How big are those weaning cages?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

30 x 36 inches and 30 x 30 inches

[@esbjornaneer5366]

Hello Paul, thank you for a great video. Living in Spain, Europe, I have been given what I think is Flemish Giants as a neighbour who died had them. At what age would one start breeding Flemish Giants? Would they be re-bred at 21days after giving birth too? How often do you need to replace your breeders with the breeding schedule you talk of in this video? Many thanks for your answers!!! Have a good day.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Hello, so with Flemishs being a bigger breed I'd wait until about 7 to 8 months to start breeding to make sure they are mature. I'd re breed at 21 days, but monitor your does to make sure they are in good shape. Good luck on your rabbit raising endeavors! And thank you for watching! Much appreciated!

[@chrisb639]

With your outcrosses do the offspring get bigger than the purebreds of each breed?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

They grow faster than than the purebreds yes.

[@chrisb639]

@@BrokenArrowFarm307 thanks loving these videos never considered rabbits as a food source until recently and these vids have helped alot!

[@AsomughaPromise-qr5fh]

Hello sir. Are youe NZW rabbits purebred or hybrids?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@AsomughaPromise-qr5fh hello, they are purebred NZ rabbits

[@eleniroberts7812]

When you say Rex are also good for their fur, is that for spinning or as a pelt?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

For their pelt

[@SusanKarr01]

So if you can have a separate kindling area would that be better? Maybe with todays technology have 24/7 cameras on them?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Not sure if it would be better or not. I have thought about using cameras. As i have them in my brooder rooms.

[@shepherdmadhiko7502]

Apart from different colours, are there any other material differences on the new zealand rabbits?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

No not really that I have observed.

[@ashp8498]

We are in our 2nd year with rabbits and started with wooden/wire hutches, and now we are out growing that area. I now have a breeding trio of flemish, 4 mini rex and 5 Nz. All are young except the flemish. Im finding that my cages seem to be too small when the kits get to about 5 weeks. I'm starting to build racks and cages similar to yours in another area. Any recommendations on cage size? How do your NZ does handle being in that size cage with 10+ 6 week old kits? Any feedback would be appreciated, thank you.

[@ashp8498]

Or even old for the flemish.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Very cool! I think the 30 x 36 inch cages are adequate for that.

[@tomwilson8386]

What r ur thoughts on the TAMUKs

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

I have never raised them I would like to try to, if I can find any. From what I hear they are very hardy and do well in the heat.

[@makodean1]

I raise TAMUK composites in SW Florida zone 10a. They do very well in the higher heat and humidity. Great temperament, fast growth and litter sizes. I feed 70% pellets, 30% organically grown banana and Moringa leaves. I give them Comfrey, carrots, pine cones and peach skins as healthy snacks. I have a food forest, more like a small jungle lol, and the banana and Moringa leaves reduce feed costs without compromising their nutritional needs. I believe anyone living in warmer climates will do well with TAMUKs. Best of luck. 🤠

[@dothedo3667]

I see you have some cats in there. The rabbits don't get stressed by having them around? Do the cats go in and out of the rabbit room/outside? Any problems with that?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Hello, yes there are a few barn cats that go in and out of the rabbit barn. The rabbits are used to them.

[@Hunterman777]

Where is the best/cheapest place to get the 1/2" x 1" wire. I have been looking and it is hard to find a reasonable supplier

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

I use Klumbertanz

[@Hunterman777]

Thanks! Another question, where do you get your pellets from?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@Hunterman777 you are welcome. Hubbard brand , buy by the ton at local feed store.

[@prinsgreen6895]

I like your video a lot I grown some New Zealand rabbits but there is not buyers in India.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@prinsgreen6895 thank you! So you raise them for yourself to eat?

[@prinsgreen6895]

@@BrokenArrowFarm307 OK thanks

[@ShilohHuite]

I just had my first 2 litters, 3 and 4 kits, both first time moms and first time dad. You say you buy at $2/lb, is it just because you are buying from people who can't get rid of them themselves? I was looking in my area and can't really find any for sale with a couple hours drive. I drove 4 hours for mine and paid $60 each for the trio. I'm just trying to figure out if i'm gonna be way out in left field asking $30-$40. I was planning on just advertising the availability not necessarily as meat/pet/breeders but just the flat $30-40 and the buyer can do what they want with them. I am keeping records so I can continue the pedigrees I have. Thanks

[@ShilohHuite]

I jumped the gun on the comment by a couple minutes because you mentioned your prices for breeders and whatnot after. Still, what are your thoughts on my pricing? I still need to track feed as best I can to get a better idea of cost to grow so I don't lose money but being my first litters I don't have that data from my own experience yet.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

So a lot of the rabbits I buy for $2 / lb are from rabbit breeders to raise a lot of show rabbits and these are the ones they didn't show, couldn't show, and need somewhere to sell them to.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

I sell my breeding stock rabbits for $60 each, these are 8 to 12 week old rabbits with pedigrees available. So you need to focus on you is your customer going to be? Will you be selling fryer rabbits, breeding stock, pets, ect? $30 - $40 is a good starting point. You will definitely want to figure out what it costs you to raise rabbits and then go from there. Thank you for watching, and happy rabbit raising!!

[@joshcaraway2492]

Do the reptile breeders prefer live, or processed rabbits?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@joshcaraway2492 processed, because they don't have the capacity to hold 100 + live rabbits at a time. So they go into a freezer and they feed them as needed.

[@Nautilus1972]

I just got my first pair. The buck is a Dutch, the doe is a jet black mini-Rex. Should I just breed that line for size and pelt? Or try and get a New Zealand doe to throw in the mix? It’s meat I’m interested in primarily. I live in Thailand. No Californians. NZ is rare here. Thanks.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Hello, very cool! You can certainly raise those for meat, just be smaller in size when you process them. If your end goal in meat, I would look into getting a New Zealand doe to add to the mix as well.

[@wirecook7042]

thanks dude im growin nz whites in nz i have a buck and doe can i breed between 2 litters

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@wirecook7042 you are welcome! Very cool you are in NZ raising NZ rabbits. So you can breed that way as "line breeding" I would use those kits as fryer rabbits. And not keep them back as replacements to the herd. I would reccomend getting another doe as well that's not related to the buck or doe to help build your herd as well. Happy rabbit raising!

[@wybuchowyukomendant]

Im thinking about raising angora rabbits for the wool, the price of it is through the roof here in europe. For meat I have few Vienna Blue, they are great and tasty... btw, do you preserve the skins for some clothes, etc?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

I harvest most of my rabbits before they are prime. So I don't keep a lot of pelts.

[@Jonnyballgame]

How do you identify all of your does? Tag, bracelets...?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

I use cage tags on the cages, and tattoos on the does

[@MehboobJaBBar]

Nice rabbit forming

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Thank you!

[@meredethYT]

Such helpful information as I consider staring my own rabbitry for dog food and fur to make blankets. Thank you!

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@meredethYT I am glad you found it helpful! Good luck on your rabbit raising endeavors!

[@honestlyjustaweirdo7706]

I’m looking into raising rabbits to feed my dog and sell the pelts. I’m in Alberta so if can get pretty hot and pretty cold. Right now I’m thinking of satin rabbits. Any other recommendations or warnings you suggest?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Satins are a great breed! I'd reccomend keeping them inside a building. We can as low as 40 below 0 Fahrenheit here in the Winter and as high as 110 Fahrenheit in the Summer. I'd imagine you have a similar climate.

[@blacksheep4000]

Would you know how to look up local laws regarding rasing and selling meat rabbit's? Ive been looking around but cant find much. Here in Maine we have weird ridiculous laws about things and before i get started want to make sure im legal. Thanks for a very educational video about rasing rabbit's.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Good idea to look into this. I am not sure how things are in Main but in Wyoming, that information can be found through the Wyoming Department of Agriculture. You are welcome for the video, thank you for watching!

[@godwinngwena743]

Thank you

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@godwinngwena743 you are welcome! Thank you for watching!

[@reikidreams9265]

I have New Zealand red, blue broken, & not show chestnut. I also have black & brown silverfox. I am getting creme d'argent this fall. 😊

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

That's very a very cool assortment of meat rabbits you have!

[@weareonething7363]

Do you ship rabbits to Oklahoma?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Hello, no unfortunately I do not ship rabbits.

[@BSmith-yp7fz]

Hello I was wondering if you sale rabbits and would you be able to ship them i am looking for California rabbits a breeding pair thanks Gary if so please let me know and the price

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Hello Gary, thank you for the inquiry. Unfortunately I am not able to ship rabbits.

[@sdollison91]

When I first started watching this I thought the cat was a rabbit that somehow got on top of the cages. lol. I started raising 4h rabbits in highschool. Years later and I'm always looking to learn more. I plan on expanding and slowly adding in better breeding stock rather than the rabbits I snagged at a feed store. I love colony style but inside and concrete flooring for growouts.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@sdollison91 ha ha!! Yeah that is Melvin the barn cat. Good luck on your rabbit raising endeavors!!

[@The_Remnant86]

My grandma raised rabbits for manure, but my husband and I will be buying a couple acres & are thinking about raising meat rabbits. I have a barrier in my brain about this. Can anyone recommend any videos that deal with this? Frankly my husband also has a barrier in his brain about dispatching the animal. Even though he's dispatched our pet ferrets when they were dying and in agony. We'd like to desensitize to the act..

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

I'd reccomend watching as many meat rabbit raising videos as you can.

[@The_Remnant86]

@BrokenArrowFarm307 thank you. I've been watching them all, including meat bird videos. But haven't watched the dispatching itself. I believe you're right. The more we see it, the more we won't think twice about it. It's weird, we dispatch fish without a second thought. But the idea of raising it & attachment is what we're worried about

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@The_Remnant86 all of that will come with time. You will have your main breeding stock which you might name. Then you will have their offspring the fryer stock. Don't name these, these are food..

[@carenal]

I raise and process my own chickens. I was thinking about trying meat rabbits, but worried I might get attached because they are so cute.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

I guess it's just part of your mind set, you are correct harvesting and processing any animal is not for everyone.

[@davewhiteaker413]

I have some rabbits that are really rough on the drinking nipples. They will leak after 3 or so weeks. Have you found drinking nipples you would recommend?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Yes I have check out Klubertanz Equipment Co

[@emilyt6391]

Do you also use their fur? I was considering rabbit farm

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

If they are prime when we harvest and process we do.

[@lorineidtinytoadplot744]

I think I may be a bit more of a clean freak, I pull the litter to the front right into a wheelbarrow and the bottom has tubs I dump in the wheelbarrow. cuts way down on the ammonia. I also give them water bowls, I'm in Norther BC Canada So I also give them snow, they like the snow more than the water. Your watering system would not work at -40c & personally I think they look dirty, I would be washing them all the time. But if I was in warmer area I might do what you do, as far as water is concerned.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

👍

[@lorineidtinytoadplot744]

@@BrokenArrowFarm307 😂 Sorry lol

[@reikidreams9265]

I am new to rabbits. I have my first 8 breeders waiting for them to age up to breeding age. I bought 36x30x18. I like the large cage because 1. It's the biggest at tractor supply & any bigger having lots of cages I would run out of room to put them!😅 2. These rabbits will spend their whole life in them. I dont like them because while taming my rabbits my arm is short & hard to reach them to pet them when they are in the corner. 2. Also I find it hard to pull the rabbit out if it's not wanting me to pick it up. All of my rabbits are pretty tame for petting. Now I'm working on pulling them out & holding each one. I have held 5 of my 8. My goal is to be able to pick them all up & out of the cage by the breeding age. I will continue to put Doe & Buck breeders in 36x30x18 but the cull h sell rabbits into 24x24x18. My potential breeders that I will grow out I'll put in 30x30 so I can continue to tame them. Once they are an official keeper I will move them into 36x30. I love all my rabbits. I feed & water twice a day & spend 5-10 minutes with each rabbit. They each have their own personality. I have 2 bucks that would make great pets. They are silly, friendly & playful. I would hate to break their spirit by putting them in smaller cages. My rabbits are livestock but they are also little spirit beings & I want to respect & honor their lives & their work to provide me with food & pelts. My goal is to use them as live stock & honor them with love & respect as much as I'm possibly capable of. My partner is a hunter & he will only do the dispatching but I will do everything else. Thank you for this detailed video series. My grandfather used to raise meat rabbits. It took me 3 years of contemplation before I jumped in. Tealstone Homestead videos helped to show me I can do this. Getting my Rabbitry going has actually been great for my mental heal in 2024. No Bill Gates poison food for me & my family!😅

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

That sounds like a very nice set up you have! Yes it just takes time and practice to get them out if the cages for sure. Best of luck in your rabbit raising endeavors! It sounds like you are off to a good start!

[@silvanusolago3624]

How many rabbits could 16 by 40 fts structure hold sir?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

That can depend a lot, how many different tiers of cages, how far between cages, ect. But I'd say 30 to 50 producing does, with room for their kits and the breeding bucks.

[@orianaspiderowl769]

What's up with that banging noise? And grumpy grunts? Why have one (sounds like one) or more of them started doing their equivalent of rattling a tin cup across the cage bars?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

They are rattling the cage feeders. Was the sound when I was outside? It might be emus in the background.

[@Randolphburtt384]

Silver fox have great fur.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Yes they are, and the fur makes great pelts!

[@lesegomphathiwa8535]

Thank you, Paul. This was so inspiring. I have learned a lot.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

You are welcome. Thank you for watching I'm glad you learned something!

[@crowchild182]

“I’ve been raising rabbits for 30 years” Meanwhile buddy looks like he’s 28.. mind blowing haha.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@crowchild182 👍

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Thanks for the compliment! I'm 40 and have been raising rabbits since I was 5.

[@patricke.987]

New Sub Here. Long video so long comment... Please read my breeder's options at the end because it's 2 dream scenario (and they both completely blew my mind!). But first: To me this is a PERFECT video! I love the no BS approach that comes from experience! BRAVO! As a teen, living in the country. We had a few meat rabbits (American Sables from this breeder). Now in my fifties, I am getting back into it. I am moving from the suburbs of Montreal up in the north country... northern Quebec Canada (like Zone 2 - Alaska). I am presently building a 10 x 16 lean-to luxury rabbit shed. It will be set up like you but with a max of 14 large cages. It's insulated with electricity so I can heat for winter (5 months with a few days at -60F). I LOVE your watering system, the J Feeder insert is brilliant and I didn't know about those plastic pads. So I am all doing it! Thanks! This video helped me finalize my rabbit shed! Before all of this, I found my BREEDER. I want pure bread perfect genes and wasn't sure what would be best up north. OMG did I luck out! He turns out to be 30 minutes away from the house I grew up. I befriended this 66 y.o. farmer who's been in industrie 51 years. He's got +/- 500 rabbits. He's a walking encyclopedia! He likes my general knowledge / attitude and he's been helping me at every stage of my build. I am so lucky!!!. He's got breeds (pure) galore... NZ all colors, California, mini-Rex, American Chinchilla and American Sable (he as the sables breeding history going back 45 years!!!). He also as a few Crème d'argent as his personal rabbits. I want rabbits for meat and pelts. I had a rabbit blanket when I was a kid. I am dreaming of making a few of those. Not planning on selling any rabbits apart from friends and family. So my needs are a max of 4/5 does with 4/5 litters a year. My breeder wants to pass-on his knowledge and he told me that I was a perfect candidate. Also helps that he knew my dad and that the Sables that we had when I was a kid came from his Dad's farm. So here are the 2 scenarios he thinks would be great! I don't know what to do???? 1) The pure bread crème d'argent scenario: 3 does and 2 bucks from different bloodlines. WOW! But I am not planning to sell them. The litter size he says is 5 to 8. So breeding them 4-5 times a year would not me too much meat for me. He says they are the easiest rabbit for beginners and to the breeders knowledge he is the only one who has them in Canada. He got them from a reputable breeder in Minnesota. 2) The sable / California scenario: Now this comes from one of the most experienced breeders of Sables in Canada. he mostly sells these as pets. Few are propagating the Sable breed and he can see that I know that breed. This BLEW my mind! So, 3 American Sable does and 2 California Bucks. The correct way to conserve the Pure Breed Sables is by NOT breeding them together. If you breed two Purebloods together. You will get a small litter and you will get Award winning rabbits but the second generation will be like Hybrids with bad genetics (that's why most abandon this breed). So you breed California Bucks with Sable does. The kits will be +/- 50-50%. MEANING half will be California and half will be Sables. Both are Pure Breeds from the same doe. He was saying that the California's get to Fryer weight about 3 weeks quicker than the sable kits even if from the same doe. I know it sounds crazy but I saw litters myself. The Sable pelts are my preferred ones. I would get a great meat rabbit in the California's. He also said, that in the future, Breeding Sables with Chinchilla's is a great option for pelts but those 2 breeds mix. Nicer pelts from the mixed genetics. Gives a lot of options. So I am completely torn on both options. I like option 2. But Crème d'argent are rare and I don't think this opportunity will be there in the future since my breeder is retiring in a few years. His kids won't pick up after him. As he scales down, He will keep the crème d'argent but probably not the Sables. As an experience breeder do you have any thoughts? Do I keep the perfect Sable genetics that he developed over so many years or do I go for the prize that Crème d'argent seems to be? Sorry this was so long... You know your stuff and you are the only one that is set-up the way that I will be. I can't find anyone to give me a second advice. Here is a link to the breeders website. It's in french but it's a simple website. At the top next to the Facebook logo click on ''nos Lapin'' (our rabbits) or ''nos poules'' (our chickens) and you will see photos. BTW, Zibeline Americaine is the American Sable (His wife does the 15 Species of chicken and he doesn't show the Crème d'argent rabbits): www.manonpoule.com/

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Thank you for the sub! Wow it sounds like you have an excellent opportunity here to work with this fella! If you are just starting out with rabbits again and learning the ropes again. Option one might be a better option just because of the simplicity of the breeding and not having to cross breed like option 2. Will you have the option to start with option 1 then move to option 2 later on? Not sure how helpful I was but whatever option you choose it will be a great experience. Happy rabbit raising my friend!

[@taylorsessions4143]

What did you end up going with?

[@SnotRag05]

Does the accumulated feces and urine make the room smelly? Is that not harmful for them to be breathing that in for so long?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@SnotRag05 its actually composting in the barn keeping the smell down. Adding shavings and worms to complete the process. Keeps the ammonia very low.

[@SONUPAL-tp8jh]

Kya price hai

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

What do you want to buy?

[@alisoncarroll]

Do you give the rabbits hay or grass? I don’t have meat rabbits only pets, I totally get people raising meat rabbits, my dogs and cats would be very happy if I did have some truthfully

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@alisoncarroll they do get grass hay

[@cmgutmann9556]

Do people buy the babnies to eat or ate they buying the adult rabbit's eat.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@cmgutmann9556 they are buying 8 to 12 week old rabbits either as breeding stock, or as fryers

[@Randolphburtt384]

Im raising silver fox there a great breed.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@Randolphburtt384 very nice! Yes they sure are

[@Randolphburtt384]

@BrokenArrowFarm307 I live in northern Maine nobody really has rabbits up here. So I found what I could I'm really liking your California's.

[@Randolphburtt384]

I give my rabbits birch twigs that seem to loved them.

[@piotrjasiulewicz7984]

If rabbits eat their poop to get all nutrients out, does it mean its less efficient to leat it drop off?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@piotrjasiulewicz7984 no not necessarily, they know which stuff they save to eat.

[@andypanda4756]

0:26 Bunny moving it's nose in morse code.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Ha ha yeah I guess so!

[@juliesteele3753]

Says "help! save me."

[@StaceyHelmick55]

Why don’t they just make the bottom of cages with cage mat material?

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@StaceyHelmick55 that is a good question, but probably because it wouldn't be as sturdy as the wire.

[@peterherkild3112]

do they taste the same

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Taste the same as far as what?

[@jamescarnes5550]

I raised new Zealand whites when I was younger I raised cute bunnies then when I was older I raised Angora bunnies

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

👍

[@chelseafaye2679]

Thank you so much for taking the time to teach so much valuable information! Our new rabbits are for 4-h and a safety net incase Kamala wins the election, we know we could starve without them.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

You are very welcome! Thank you for watching!! Yes a good safety net for sure!! 💯%!

[@ejjchildrenstrust5529]

Very informative thank you

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

You are welcome! I'm glad you found it informative! Thank you for watching!

[@rahimkhan5536]

Hi sir plz watsap n I need some tip for keeping rabbit

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Ok more details of what you want please

[@buckreynolds7475]

8 to 10

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

👍

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

What breeds of meat rabbits are you raising or looking into raising?

[@PatientMoney]

Tamuk

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@PatientMoney very cool! What type of climate do you live in and how do they do? Thinking of adding a few of those to the herd.

[@PatientMoney]

@BrokenArrowFarm307 zone 9. Tamuks are one of the few breeds that have no issues with breeding and raising their kits in 100 degree weather. Developed by Texas A&M about 30 years ago.... I'm sure you already know that.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@PatientMoney that's awesome! I'm actually wanting to get a trio of them to raise. However it is a challenge to find them where I live.

[@PatientMoney]

@@BrokenArrowFarm307 Not sure how far you are from Texas but my breeder has fresh stock every 6 weeks. I can give you her contact if you are interested. I just got a trio myself and they are not yet mature for breeding.

[@RbStunna]

My doe is pregnant over more than a month now why is she pregnant so long

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@RbStunna how many days pregnant is she? If you are able to palpate her, can you feel kits?

[@RbStunna]

@BrokenArrowFarm307 yes i feel a little ball inside her belly

[@RbStunna]

Almost feels like marbles

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@RbStunna ok, so is it possible she is only 12 to 16 days pregnant?

[@RbStunna]

@BrokenArrowFarm307 waw it seem like 4ever lol but i heard that it's 30 to 31 days for pregnant rabbit to give birth

[@eugeniarichards4356]

Please clean the rabbitry more often for good atmosphere and to prevent mites, mice growth.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

👍

[@CaliWalli]

Appreciate the knowledge but had to stop listening the bells sounds everytime there is text added wake up my baby!

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Thank you! Well shoot! Have to turn back on when baby is up.

[@Andy_rabbit_]

Higher priced doesn't mean better it sometimes is just greed. Maybe the cheeper price is cuz someone just doesn't like the fact that others have priced jacked, just cuz they can.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Very valid points for sure, I have seen all of those instances.

[@lovinglifewithpuppies]

While I love your content Paul and I appreciate the hard work you do but it really bothers me when I see a dirty rabbitry. I think of all the dust on everything , smell, and overall health of the newborns are put at risk as well as a fire hazard. I saw lots of areas that must be fly infested and honestly I understand it’s a working farm. I raised 300 goats/kids every year and I understand time constraints but twice a year is simply not enough in my opinion. I raise rabbits (15 does and several Buck) as well and it’s cleaned every day. I also have 12 German short hair pointers that I breed as well as exercising them several times a day with their kennels and playrooms that need to be cleaned daily as well. Please try to do better.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

👍

[@Gnolomweb]

7:30 "better" ... doesn't explain. thumbs down.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

I agree crazy editing software..

[@MichaelM-q2q]

Personal meat rabbits first.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

If that's your priority, then absolutely!

[@cebasmb8250]

I have rabbits and try to keep in contact with them. They don't give a damn they already got their money, which is sad

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

I'm sorry to hear that. I try to be very responsive to all of my past customers who reach out to me. I want them to succeed in the rabbit raising endeavor just as I did.

[@cebasmb8250]

@BrokenArrowFarm307 and that's how it should be, but some people don't care after, so I just don't recommend them

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@cebasmb8250 yeah that's not right. If they keep that up they will be out of business. I wish you the best in your rabbit raising endeavors, what breeds of rabbits are you raising?

[@brandongoodrich1325]

Do not use cardboard boxes yes people will tell u that you can but I’m not going to loose out on 160 dollars again

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Yes that's a good point

[@buckreynolds7475]

I won't feed a doe that don't have 8 are more baby

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

That's a good practice to go by for sure. Do you feel her daughters also have larger litters as well?

[@buckreynolds7475]

I got 3 does I keep baby out of and 1 buck

[@KennyEscobar-v1o]

With the price of food in 2024 is better to go to a livestock and buying them," i pay 8 to 15 a bunnies

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@@KennyEscobar-v1o that's a pretty good deal.

[@Michael-zb6uw]

Too many ads

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

The ads allow you to watch it for free.

[@buckreynolds7475]

She ain't died

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

👍

[@buckreynolds7475]

@@BrokenArrowFarm307 was not for you sorry

[@jamescarnes5550]

That's a very small cage

[@templeprogramming3579]

If you get down to rabbit level and stick your head in one you will find it's a comfortable amount of space to hop and stretch. I've tried making double and triple size enclosures and mature rabbits don't even use the space. Pasture would be neat but droughts/frosts/heat/rain can make it not ideal for rabbits all the time, they need some way to stay clean and parasite free during those gaps instead of spreading disease in bedding or a dirt patch.

[@templeprogramming3579]

I was in denial about cages for a few years but now I see they are necessary and more comfortable for the rabbits in the tougher seasons.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

Nailed it! Very good points!

[@jasonhopper2680]

You could always narrate and actually use video time for rabbits instead of “YOU”😂😂

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

A lot of these videos were from when I had just started KZbin, it's been a big learning curve. And I have came a long way. Shoot me a link to your KZbin channel so that I can see how a professional produces videos.

[@TrentJ202007]

​@BrokenArrowFarm307 good for you brother, I actually appreciate this style. I'm actually trying to learn this so seeing you point stuff out is helpful. I'm not just trying to see cute rabbit videos, I want to learn this. They are cute tho...lol I'm getting ready to get into Rex.

[@BrokenArrowFarm307]

@TrentJ202007 thank you! Rex are one of my favorite rabbit breeds, good luck on your rabbit raising endeavors!