Since we first got interested in this rabbit revolution a while back, we’ve been watching this self sufficiency trend continue to grow and develop all around the world. Our own personal journey with rabbits has deepened our understanding and appreciation for these remarkable animals. In this final blog post of the series, we’re sharing both our personal experiences and the latest insights from the growing movement of modern homesteaders who’ve chosen rabbits as their main source of sustainable protein.

As climate change and resource scarcity continue to impact global agriculture, raising rabbits has become an increasingly recognized solution for sustainable food production. Our fascination with these adorable critters started as simple curiosity but has grown into a deep respect for their efficiency and adaptability. In times when food security is becoming more uncertain, rabbits offer a stability that few other alternatives can match.

Rabbits, with their undeniable cuteness, bring a unique appeal to the table. Their fluffy fur, the way their noses twitch when they’re munching on hay, and those cuddly floppy ears make em a big favorite as pets for many folks. But when it comes to the practical side of things, raising rabbits for meat production requires a different mindset, especially for beginners. During our journey, we’ve seen more and more people getting involved in ethical rabbit breeding, focusing on animal welfare alongside productivity.

Preparing mentally for that first slaughter is still a challenge for many, just like it’s gonna be for us when that day comes ’round. It’s about acknowledging the responsibility that comes with raising animals for self sufficiency. Newer methods for humane slaughter processes have developed over the years, making this aspect of rabbit raising more accessible for sensitive beginners.

For some time now, the concept of regenerative agriculture has gained significant popularity in rabbit breeding. This method focuses on integrating rabbit raising into larger ecosystems where rabbit manure becomes a valuable resource for gardens and crops. 

We’re waiting with excitement to implement and experiment with these principles in our own garden for more lush crops and a more balanced microclimate in our little patch. Rabbit breeders all over Sweden have started implementing rotation grazing on a smaller scale, where the rabbits are moved between different enclosures to avoid overgrazing and parasite problems. This method has proven particularly successful here in our Nordic climate, where the ground needs time to recover between grazing periods.

Our experience with rabbits has transformed not just our approach to food production, but our entire relationship with the land we steward. What began as a practical solution has blossomed into a deeply rewarding lifestyle change. The rhythms of caring for these animals has connected us more intimately with the natural cycles that govern all life, something we’ve found increasingly valuable in our fast paced modern world.

We’ve learned that success with rabbits isn’t just about following the right techniques, though those are mighty important. But also about developing an intuitive understanding of their needs and behaviors. Each rabbit has its own personality, preferences, and quirks that make this journey all the more enriching. From watching new kits grow to developing our own feed formulations, every aspect has been a learning opportunity.

As we look ahead, we’re excited about the innovations emerging in the rabbit raising community. From improved housing designs that prioritize natural behaviors to advanced breeding programs focused on resilience and adaptability, the field is evolving rapidly. We’re particularly interested in how traditional wisdom is being combined with modern understanding to create systems that work harmoniously with nature rather than against it.

For those considering starting their own rabbit revolution at home, we encourage you to connect with the growing community of rabbit enthusiasts. The shared knowledge and support available have made our journey not just possible but truly enjoyable. Whether your goal is complete self sufficiency or simply reducing your environmental footprint, rabbits offer a practical, ethical, and rewarding path forward.

Recent research backs up what we’ve learned on our journey, the rabbit’s efficiency as a meat producer is unmatched among domesticated animals. A single breeding doe can now produce up to 50 kg of meat per year in an area smaller than 2 square meters, thanks to improved feeding methods and selective breeding. This makes rabbits the obvious choice for urban homesteading and small farms, even in city environments.

With their short gestation period of 28-35 days and improved survival rates for kits due to humane modern breeding methods, rabbits have become the most obvious and efficient choice since we started exploring this rabbit revolution.

Just imagine feeding a rabbit the same way as a cow, but harvesting six times as much! This extraordinary efficiency has given rise to new communities of rabbit breeders sharing knowledge and resources.

We’ve seen significant innovations in rabbit hutch design and automated feeding systems. Modern setups use rainwater collection and solar energy to reduce resource consumption. Principles that we’ll be implementing ourselves for a semi automatic watering system, which we reckon will drastically cut down our daily animal care without compromising their well being.

Smart technology has also made its way into rabbit breeding, with apps helping breeders keep track of breeding cycles, weight gains, and feed consumption. These tools have helped rabbit farmers optimize their breeding and identify areas for improvement in ways that weren’t available not too long ago.

★★★★★

We could all be one voice. Sharing within this community is incredible, and more people should join in the comments. I’ve learned so much about sustainable farming practices, not only through the posts but also by connecting with like‑minded people in the comment section.

Elin 

As farmland becomes increasingly expensive and harder to acquire, the rabbit’s extreme efficiency has become even more relevant. Especially in a time when more and more Swedes have sought out small scale rural living after the pandemic, with rabbits becoming an increasingly common gateway to self sufficiency

Raising animals is so much more than just breeding them. It’s a delicate dance between humans and nature, a craft that calls for both heart and smarts. In this symphony of self sufficiency, the rabbit continues to play a leading role like few other animals can.

Over the past decade, there’s been a remarkable revival of traditional knowledge about rabbit farming, now preserved through digital platforms and communities. Swedish rabbit breeders have created extensive online resources that blend centuries of farming wisdom with modern science.

For generations, raising domestic rabbits has been woven into rural life. While many city folks might still see it as a novelty, seasoned farmers know rabbits as an age old ally. Cherished for their meat, fur, and overall utility. What’s changed is the new generation’s understanding of the rabbit’s role in a sustainable food system.

The growing concern over climate change has only amplified the rabbit’s importance, as their carbon footprint is minimal compared to traditional livestock farming. Our own calculations confirm that rabbit farming produces less than one tenth of the carbon emissions of equivalent beef production.

Looking ahead, we see continued growth for what we’re calling the “rabbit renaissance.” Economic challenges and environmental concerns are driving more people to seek sustainable protein alternatives, and rabbits are perfectly poised to meet this need.

One of the most rewarding developments since we wrote our very first post on this topic has been witnessing the incredible sense of community surrounding rabbit farming worldwide. Social media platforms and regional associations have created opportunities for knowledge sharing and mentorship that have transformed the landscape for beginners and homesteaders alike.

Our own journey has been enriched beyond measure by these communities, where we’ve both learned and shared insights. Annual fairs and exhibitions for self sufficiency have grown in popularity, with dedicated sections for rabbit farming. These events have not only improved breeding standards but also fostered vital social networks for rural folks who often struggle with isolation.

So why not hop on board this thriving trend and embrace the legacy of these furry friends? Traditions steeped in history and wisdom are now strengthened by modern knowledge and community support. It’s a heritage we firmly believe is worth preserving and passing down to future generations. Be part of the movement that’s transforming sustainable living. Rabbits offer an efficient and eco friendly solution for urban homesteaders and small farms alike. Share your insights and experiences with us, and let’s grow this community together. 

As we wrap up this guide, we’re still buzzing with excitement that you’ve joined us on this thrilling adventure. We hope you’ve gained a fresh perspective on self sufficiency, just as we have and we’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic. feel free to holler back and leave your comments below.

The rabbit revolution just keeps growing, fueled by both tradition, innovation and by practical needs and a deep love for these amazing animals. Whether you’ve already started your rabbit journey or are just considering it, there’s no better time than now to join this expanding movement toward true food sovereignty and sustainable living.

Until next time, take care from your two passionate homesteading bloggers.
Tidde & Fidde