Raising rabbits for meat has been a tradition for centuries. Rabbits grow quickly, reproduce efficiently, and provide a lean, protein-rich meat that’s prized around the world. If you’re considering raising rabbits for meat, choosing the right breed is essential. The best meat rabbit breeds are large, hardy, and efficient at converting feed into healthy growth. In this guide, we’ll cover the top breeds, their characteristics, and what you need to know before getting started.
Quick Picks – Top Meat Rabbit Breeds
- New Zealand White – Best Overall Meat Rabbit
- Californian – Best for Fast Growth
- Champagne d’Argent – Best Dual-Purpose (Meat & Fur)
Buyer’s Guide – Choosing a Meat Rabbit Breed
Not every rabbit is ideal for meat production. Here are the main factors to consider:
- Size: Larger breeds with commercial body types provide better meat yields.
- Growth Rate: Rabbits that reach market weight (4–5 lbs dressed) quickly are most efficient.
- Litter Size: Meat breeds should produce large litters for steady supply.
- Temperament: Calm, easy-to-handle rabbits are easier to manage.
- Dual Purpose: Some breeds are valued for both meat and fur, increasing their usefulness.
Top Meat Rabbit Breeds – Detailed Reviews
1. New Zealand White
- Weight: 9–12 pounds
- Growth Rate: Fast – reaches market weight in about 8–10 weeks
- Litter Size: Large, often 8–12 kits
- Temperament: Gentle and easy to handle
- Notes: Considered the gold standard of meat rabbit breeds due to size, growth rate, and efficiency.
2. Californian
- Weight: 8–10.5 pounds
- Growth Rate: Very fast – market ready around 8 weeks
- Litter Size: Medium to large, 6–10 kits
- Temperament: Calm, friendly
- Notes: Bred specifically for meat production; second only to the New Zealand in popularity.
3. Champagne d’Argent
- Weight: 9–12 pounds
- Growth Rate: Moderate – market weight in 10–12 weeks
- Litter Size: 6–9 kits
- Temperament: Docile, manageable
- Notes: Dual-purpose breed with both quality meat and unique silver-colored fur.
4. Rex
- Weight: 8–10.5 pounds
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Litter Size: 6–9 kits
- Temperament: Friendly, calm
- Notes: Valued for its plush fur as well as meat production.
5. Flemish Giant
- Weight: 14–20 pounds
- Growth Rate: Slow compared to other breeds
- Litter Size: 5–10 kits
- Temperament: Gentle “giants,” but require more space
- Notes: Large size produces a lot of meat, but less efficient feed conversion than New Zealand or Californian.
6. Silver Fox
- Weight: 9–12 pounds
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Litter Size: 7–9 kits
- Temperament: Calm and hardy
- Notes: Excellent for meat and fur, with a distinctive silver coat.
Comparison Table – Best Meat Rabbit Breeds
| Breed | Weight | Growth Rate | Litter Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Zealand White | 9–12 lbs | Fast | 8–12 | Most popular meat rabbit |
| Californian | 8–10.5 lbs | Very fast | 6–10 | Efficient meat production |
| Champagne d’Argent | 9–12 lbs | Moderate | 6–9 | Meat + fur dual purpose |
| Rex | 8–10.5 lbs | Moderate | 6–9 | Premium fur and meat |
| Flemish Giant | 14–20 lbs | Slow | 5–10 | Very large meat yield |
| Silver Fox | 9–12 lbs | Moderate | 7–9 | Meat and unique fur |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best meat rabbit breed?
The New Zealand White is considered the best overall meat rabbit due to its large size, rapid growth, and high litter numbers.
How fast do meat rabbits grow?
Most commercial breeds reach market weight (4–5 lbs dressed) within 8–12 weeks, depending on breed and feeding.
Can you eat any rabbit breed?
Technically yes, but some breeds are inefficient for meat production. Smaller dwarf breeds don’t yield enough meat compared to larger meat breeds.
Do meat rabbits need special housing?
Yes. They need larger cages or hutches with solid flooring and enough room to move comfortably.
How many meat rabbits do I need to start?
Most small-scale operations start with one buck (male) and two does (females), which can produce enough litters to sustain a family’s meat supply.
Conclusion
Raising meat rabbit breeds like the New Zealand, Californian, or Champagne d’Argent can be a rewarding way to provide your household with lean, healthy protein. The right breed will depend on whether you prioritize fast growth, large litter size, or dual-purpose fur and meat. For beginners, the New Zealand and Californian are the top choices due to their efficiency and popularity.
💡 Final Tip: Before setting up a rabbitry, make sure your housing is big enough. Use the free
Rabbit Cage Size Calculator to plan cages or hutches that give your rabbits enough room to thrive.