cleaning messy popples /cross post just in case

[coffeenutdesigns]

I posted about my new babies in a different thread under meat rabbits, but wanted to ask here in case it doesn't get seen over there.

So, my doe kindled last night and this morning when I checked them they still had dried blood on them. Only 2 of the 8 were clean. I went to work and just got home and went to check and they are still messy. Should I bring them in and clean them up. Is there any special process. I am thinking just a warm washcloth in front of a space heater to keep them from getting chilled.

 

[AmysMacdog]

I'd bring them in and clean them up with cotton balls and Q-tips but a washcloth may work fine. Has she fed them?

 

[coffeenutdesigns]

It looked like they had been fed this morning, but they were just born late last night. She hasn't been the greatest mom. This is only third litter, first 2 were unsuccessful. She is doing better so far. There weren't any placentas anywhere, so she cleaned those up good.

 

[MamaSheepdog]

I looked at the pics in the other thread, and I agree that you should clean them up. You can blow dry them on a warm setting. It should only take seconds for them to dry.

If they get messy looking like that again, the doe is peeing in the nest. In that case, I would remove the nest, replace any soiled bedding, and bring them out only for feedings.

Good luck- third time's the charm, right? :clover:

 

[AmysMacdog]

Hopefully she'll feed them again close to dark. Got my fingers crossed she does good this time!

 

[coffeenutdesigns]

I went ahead and cleaned them up. After pulling them out of the nest box I found them not as messy as they had been. They looked fed, but the runt didn't seem as full. I'll watch him/her.