Most French Angoras require 1 cup of commercial pellets per day, at a 17-18% protein level to support wool growth. During the winter when caloric needs are on the increase, this amount may SLOWLY be increased to no more than 1 ½ cups. Lactating does will require 1 ½ cups for small litters and 2 or more cups for larger litters. Babies must be free-fed (food available throughout the day) up until the ages of 5 ½-6 months.

Hay is critically important to the health of an angora rabbit's digestive tract, providing roughage to help prevent the build-up of wool and feed in the stomach. Alfalfa hay is particularly high in protein, but not preferred for daily use alongside commercial pellets. Timothy hay is the best choice for supplementation every day, supplying critically needed fiber for the prevention of woolblock. When purchasing Timothy hay, be certain that bales are fresh and sweet smelling, with no dust or moldy odors present. Discard hay that is black or damp, has bugs in it, or is obviously gray and old.

All bunnies should be provided one handful of hay per day with the exception of lactating does and rabbits under 6 months of age, who should have it in front of them at all times. Deposit handfuls loosely into hay hoppers attached to the front of each cage, or push some through the cage wire itself. Try to avoid piling hay onto the cage floor so as to prevent soiling with urine and feces. During molting times especially, angoras will trail belly wool into piles that are deposited on the floor, increasing the likelihood of woolblock when that hay gets consumed. Always remove soiled or leftover hay from each cage daily before replacing it with a new, fresh handful.

To keep the digestive tract healthy and clean, many breeders employ 'hay and birdseed' days on a weekly or monthly basis in lieu of pellets. Research has shown that the occurrence of woolblock is often directly related to the overfeeding of a pelleted ration, so replacing pellets one day a week with hay, greens, and ½ - ¾ cup of birdseed (with no corn in it) can substantially lessen woolblock symptoms. Some breeders also supplement papaya or bromelain enzyme tablets in addition to keep wool moving through the rabbit's system. Hay and birdseed days should NOT be employed for rabbits younger than 6 months OR for pregnant or lactating does. It is also wise to discontinue this practice in the winter to prevent loss of condition and body heat when fewer calories are available.

Water is also extremely important to the health of any rabbit. Be sure to keep clean, fresh water available 24 hrs. a day, replacing and refilling it as often as necessary. A rabbit will refuse to eat without water to drink, so a thirsty rabbit is a starving rabbit. If you live in an area of harsh winters with frequent, below freezing temps, it is an excellent idea to switch to crocks during the coldest months for water access rather than water bottles. Crocks take longer to freeze, and rabbits who have water readily available in winter are less likely to lose weight and condition. Since they are also more likely to increase feed intake at this time of year to compensate for lower temps, they will desperately require more fluids.

Though not critically necessary to produce healthy babies, I also make crocks available year round to does and their litters to encourage adequate food and water intake. I often place several crocks AND water bottles into one breeding cage at varying heights and positions to accommodate the doe and her babies, and assure that everyone gets an adequate amount of fluid.

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