Cottontail rabbits are a type of wild rabbit found in many parts of North America. Unlike domesticated rabbits, baby cottontail rabbits, also known as kits, have specific care needs that are important to understand, especially if you encounter one that has been orphaned or abandoned. Cottontail rabbits are more delicate than domesticated rabbits, so it’s essential to know how to properly care for them.

1. Identifying a Baby Cottontail Rabbit

Before you begin caring for a baby cottontail rabbit, it’s important to ensure it is actually orphaned and not just temporarily separated from its mother. Baby cottontails are typically small, with soft fur and closed or partially open eyes. They are usually fawn-colored with a white underbelly and a distinctive white tail, which gives them their name.

• Age: Baby cottontail rabbits are typically born blind and hairless, but by 2-3 weeks, they have their fur and are able to open their eyes. By 4 weeks, they begin to venture out of their nests and start to nibble on solid food.
• Size: A newborn cottontail will be very small, weighing about 40-60 grams, and by 4 weeks, they may weigh around 200 grams.

2. When to Intervene

If you find a baby cottontail that appears to be abandoned, here are some signs that it may need help:

• No mother present: The mother rabbit usually only comes to feed her young at night and may not be visible during the day.
• Injuries or signs of distress: If the baby rabbit is visibly injured or lethargic, it may need immediate medical care.
• Fur and eyes: If the baby rabbit is young, has no fur, or its eyes are still closed, it likely needs to be cared for by a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian.

3. Feeding Baby Cottontail Rabbits

Feeding a baby cottontail requires special care. If you find one in need of hand-feeding, be sure to use the proper techniques to ensure its survival.

Do Not Feed Cow’s Milk

Like other wild rabbits, baby cottontails are lactose intolerant, so cow’s milk is not suitable. Feeding them cow’s milk can lead to serious health problems, such as diarrhea or dehydration.

Milk Replacer for Wild Rabbits

The best option for feeding a baby cottontail rabbit is a rabbit-specific milk replacer or a formula designed for orphaned wild animals.

• Rabbit Milk Replacer: You can use a kitten milk replacer (like KMR or another high-quality brand). It closely resembles the nutritional profile of a mother rabbit's milk.
• How to Feed: Use a small syringe or kitten bottle to feed the baby. Be sure to feed in small, frequent doses—about 1-2 ml at a time.
• Feeding Schedule: In the first few weeks, feed every 2-3 hours during the day and night. As the baby grows older (around 2-3 weeks), you can space out feedings to every 4-6 hours.

Feeding Frequency by Age:

• 0-2 Weeks: Every 2-3 hours.
• 2-3 Weeks: Every 4 hours.
• 3-4 Weeks: Every 6 hours.

Hydration: In addition to milk replacer, it’s important to offer fresh water if the baby is more than a week old. You can provide water in a shallow dish or syringe.

4. How to Feed Baby Cottontail Rabbits

Baby cottontails are very delicate, so feeding them properly is key to their survival:

• Proper Position: Hold the baby cottontail in a natural, upright position—just like it would nurse from its mother. Never feed them on their back or belly, as this can cause them to choke or inhale milk into their lungs.
• Gentle Feeding: Gently insert the syringe or bottle near its mouth and allow the rabbit to suckle. Be careful not to force-feed, as baby rabbits can aspirate and develop pneumonia.
• Small, Frequent Feedings: Babies need small amounts of food frequently. Overfeeding can cause diarrhea or digestive issues.

5. Caring for Baby Cottontail Rabbits

Caring for a baby cottontail goes beyond feeding. These wild animals require a specialized environment and care to thrive.

Warmth and Comfort

• Baby rabbits, especially in the first few weeks, need to stay warm. Keep them in a warm, quiet environment away from direct sunlight and drafts.
• Use a heating pad set on low or a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel to keep the baby warm. Make sure it is not too hot and check regularly to avoid overheating.

Stimulate Elimination

• Unlike baby domestic rabbits, baby cottontail rabbits need help to urinate and defecate, especially before they’re 3 weeks old.
• After feeding, gently rub the baby’s genital area with a soft, warm, damp cotton ball or cloth to stimulate urination and defecation. This mimics the mother’s licking behavior.

Providing a Safe Nesting Area

• Baby cottontails need a quiet, comfortable nest. You can use soft towels or blankets to create a safe space for them to rest. Avoid using anything that might be too rough or harsh, as their skin is very sensitive.

6. Releasing Baby Cottontail Rabbits

Cottontail rabbits are wild animals, and their ultimate goal is to be reintroduced to the wild. It is important to ensure that the baby rabbit is properly weaned and able to fend for itself before being released.

• Weaning Process: Gradually transition the baby to eating hay and fresh vegetables (like dandelion greens, clover, and leafy herbs). You can also offer some rabbit pellets to help them make the transition to solid food.
• Release: Once the rabbit is eating solid food and can hop around and move independently, it may be ready to return to the wild. Release the rabbit in a safe, natural habitat where it can thrive.

7. When to Seek Professional Help

• If you are uncertain about caring for a baby cottontail, it’s best to contact a wildlife rehabilitator or a veterinarian who specializes in wild animals. They can guide you in providing the proper care or even take over the rehabilitation process if necessary.

Conclusion

Caring for a baby cottontail rabbit requires a lot of attention to detail. These wild animals have specific feeding and care needs, and proper nutrition and warmth are essential for their survival. If you find an orphaned baby cottontail, be sure to feed it the appropriate milk replacer and provide a safe, warm environment. Over time, the baby rabbit will begin to nibble on solid food, and eventually, it can be released back into the wild where it belongs. Always consult a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian for expert advice to ensure the best outcome for the rabbit.