Giving the momma a break

[CedarRidge]

What methods do you use to allow the mother space from constant harassment by the kits. Before their eyes open they tend to hang together and can't see the mother to follow her. But once you hit day 10 or so, and their eyes open, the kits start to roam and can easily find the mother. What do you do to allow her some space? Do you keep a shelf available for her to get on? Do you put them all in a larger cage? Do you pull the kits and reunite twice a day? Our shelf system, mated with the top of the nest box seemed to work well to allow mother much needed relief, but after finding her injured 2 days later, not sure of that plan. Shelf was only 9 inches high, unable to tip, and part of her pen for 3 months prior to kindling.

 

[eco2pia]

Mine like to get on top of the nest box roof, but then eventually they just lay flat on their bellies and the kits can't reach. Most of my mamas will teach them to stop bugging them eventually.

 

[RabbitsOfTheCreek]

My Does jump onto the platform on top of the next boxes sometimes
But when I watch them while they're out of the nest box they might follow her around but they don't usually try and nurse all the time
I also like to get them out for an hour or so a few times a day

 

[ladysown]

momma's teach them to leave them alone.

 

[CedarRidge]

Thanks to all. Sounds like we are overthinking again.

 

[Olukayode Adegoke]

Give then couple of days, momma'l teach them to let her be when she isnt ready to nurse, and they'l get on board.