small litter question

[jake]

I am new to rabbits, and just got our first doe and buck. I had the person we got them from breed the doe to another buck the day we picked her up. She just had the kits last week, we went to get a good count today and there are only 4 little ones in the nest box. She is a two year old American that has always had around 8 kits with this buck before. Could the stress of becoming an outside rabbit (was kept in a barn before) and a few stretches of 90 degree days while she was pregnant have caused this?

Thanks for your help, and for this forum, I think i've been here at least 100 times in the past few months.

Jake

 

[MamaSheepdog]

:welcome:

Did you do a head count the day they were born? It is possible some could have died and she ate them (although aside from when they give birth, I have never had a doe do so- I find them and take them out), or she could have had some stillborn and ate them, or she could have reabsorbed some due to the stress of the move, she may have released fewer eggs because she is getting older, or,or,or... :roll:

I wouldn't worry overmuch- breed her again when you feel she is ready, and see how the next litter turns out. Congratulations on the kits and starting your rabbit venture.