Constraints and Some Reproductive Problems of Rabbit Production in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria

Abstract

In order to determine the challenges faced by rabbit farmers and suitable strategies required to enhanced the survival of rabbit kits, information on constraints and some reproductive problems of rabbit production in Maiduguri Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (M.M.C) and Jere LGAs of Borno state was investigated. Structured questionnaire was administered to 100 respondents in M.M.C and Jere LGAs. It was found that low market value for rabbit, neonatal death and loss from theft or predators were the major constraints observed in rabbit production within the study area. Mortality was high among young rabbits (1-2 weeks old), and the average number of survived rabbit kits was 1 – 5 kits per litter. In addition, seasonal variation, poor management and housing design were the immediate causes of neonatal mortality in rabbit within M.M.C and Jere LGAs of Borno state. Improved housing design, pre-natal nutrition and peri-natal hygiene was therefore recommended.