Rabbit Pregnancy Calculator
Plan for your rabbit's pregnancy with precision
Calculate when your rabbit is due to give birth with this rabbit pregnancy calculator. Enter the date of the first mating below and you will be given expected pregnancy dates so you can prepare for kindling.
Expected Due Dates:
The estimated due date is 31 days from the first mating, which is the length of gestation in rabbits. The expected dates indicate the earliest and latest expected dates of delivery. Dates may vary in some instances.
Your Rabbit's Pregnancy Timeline:
Rabbit Pregnancy Calculator
Estimate your rabbit’s due date accurately by entering the breeding date.
Rabbits typically have a short gestation period of around 28–32 days. This tool helps breeders and rabbit owners monitor pregnancy milestones, prepare the nest box, and ensure safe delivery (called kindling in rabbits).
Important: For the health of the doe (female rabbit) and her litter, always consult a veterinarian to confirm pregnancy and receive care guidance.
How to Use the Rabbit Pregnancy Calculator
Using the rabbit pregnancy calculator is simple. All you need is the date of mating.
Steps to follow:
1. Select the mating date:
Choose the exact day your rabbit was bred.
If mating occurred over multiple days, use the first successful pairing date.
2. Click on “Calculate Due Date”:
The tool will estimate the expected kindling window — generally 28 to 32 days later.
3. Review the pregnancy timeline:
You’ll see a week-by-week breakdown of what to expect, including signs of pregnancy and when to prepare the nest box.
Pro Tip: Some does may kindle early or late. Use the tool as a guide, but keep a close watch starting from day 26.
What Is the Average Rabbit Gestation Period?
The average gestation period for rabbits is 28 to 32 days, depending on breed, age, and litter size. Most healthy does give birth around day 30.
| Breed Size | Typical Pregnancy Duration |
|---|---|
| Small breeds | 28–30 days |
| Medium breeds | 29–31 days |
| Large/Giant breeds | 30–32 days |
Note: Stress, nutrition, and environmental factors can influence kindling timing.
Rabbit Pregnancy Timeline
Rabbit pregnancies progress rapidly, and key stages can be observed within weeks.
| Stage | Timeframe (Days) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fertilization | Day 1 | Eggs are fertilized and move to the uterus. |
| Early Development | Days 6–10 | Embryos begin forming; hormonal changes begin. |
| Implantation | Days 10–12 | Embryos implant in the uterus wall. |
| Physical & Behavioral Changes | Days 14–20 | Abdominal swelling may begin; behavioral shifts observed. |
| Nesting Behavior Begins | Days 25–28 | Doe may start pulling fur and building a nest. |
| Kindling Window | Days 28–32 | Rabbit gives birth, typically early morning or late night. |
Key Point: Place the nesting box inside the enclosure by day 26 to ensure the doe has time to prepare.
Do Different Rabbit Breeds Have Different Gestation Lengths?
Yes, while the typical range is 28–32 days, breed and body size can cause slight variations.
| Rabbit Breed | Gestation Range |
|---|---|
| Netherland Dwarf | 28–30 days |
| Rex | 29–31 days |
| Flemish Giant | 30–32 days |
| Mini Lop | 28–30 days |
| New Zealand White | 29–31 days |
Insight: Smaller breeds often kindle earlier. For larger breeds, keep watch through day 32 but consult a vet if no kindling occurs by then.
Signs of Pregnancy in Rabbits
Rabbit pregnancy signs can be subtle, but observant owners will notice both physical and behavioral cues by the second week.
Physical Signs:
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Slight weight gain from week 2
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Swelling in the abdomen around day 15–20
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Enlarged and pink nipples (though harder to spot)
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Palpable embryos between days 10–14 (vet or experienced breeder only)
Behavioral Signs:
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Increased food and water intake
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Mood changes (either more aggressive or more reserved)
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Nesting behavior: pulling fur, gathering hay or bedding around day 25+
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Reduced physical activity, seeking solitude
How to Prepare for a Rabbit’s Delivery (Kindling)
1. Set up a kindling area:
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Use a clean, quiet cage or hutch.
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Add a nest box (wood or plastic, safe for chewing) by day 26.
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Line the box with soft hay or straw. The doe will add fur.
2. Monitor pre-kindling behavior:
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Fur pulling and nest-building are strong signs kindling is near.
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Avoid disturbing the doe once nesting begins.
3. Prepare basic birthing supplies:
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Extra clean hay
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Clean cloth or towel (for emergencies only)
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Heating pad or lamp (if temperatures drop below 20°C)
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Vet contact for emergencies
4. Post-kindling care:
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Avoid handling the kits for the first 2–3 days unless necessary.
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Check kits quietly once daily to ensure they are warm and fed.
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Remove any stillborns gently and hygienically.
When to Visit the Vet During Rabbit Pregnancy
| Stage | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Day 10–14 | Palpation to confirm pregnancy |
| Day 26–28 | Check for pre-kindling health |
| Post-kindling | Ensure no retained kits or complications |
Emergency Signs: Excessive bleeding, no kindling by day 33, refusal to eat, lethargy, or abnormal discharge — consult a vet immediately.
Check Out Our Other Animal Pregnancy Calculators
Managing more than just rabbits? Our calculators cover a range of species for responsible animal care and breeding:
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Pig Pregnancy Calculator
-
Horse Pregnancy Calculator
-
Camel Pregnancy Calculator
Each one includes species-specific timelines, health insights, and preparation tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can rabbits get pregnant again while nursing?
Yes. Rabbits can conceive again within 24 hours of kindling. If you’re not planning back-to-back litters, separate the doe from the buck immediately after mating.
How many babies can a rabbit have?
Average litter size is 4–8 kits, but some breeds may deliver up to 12 or more.
What should I feed a pregnant rabbit?
High-quality hay (like timothy or alfalfa), pellets formulated for pregnancy/lactation, and limited fresh vegetables. Increase nutrition gradually.
Is it safe to touch newborn rabbits?
Avoid frequent handling for the first few days. If necessary (e.g., dead kit removal), do so with clean hands. Most does tolerate it if stress is minimized.
My rabbit hasn’t kindled by day 33—what should I do?
This is beyond the normal range. Contact your vet immediately to rule out complications like uterine inertia or a false pregnancy.
