Should a nest box be placed with a doe as soon as she is bred?

Placing a nest box with a doe immediately after breeding is not recommended. It is important to understand that does do not require a nest box until they are closer to kindling, or giving birth, which typically occurs around 28 to 31 days after mating. Introducing a nest box too early can cause stress both for the doe and the kits (young rabbits), as the doe may not yet have the instinct to start preparing a nesting area.

Generally, the nest box should be provided about a week before the expected kindling date. This allows the doe time to arrange the nesting material and prepare for her kits in a safe and comfortable environment. This timing helps ensure a smoother and less stressful birthing experience for the doe and her young.

Other options, like only placing the nest box if the doe has had previous litters or only if she seems comfortable, do not address the fundamental principle that nest boxes are specifically related to the birthing process. The timing of introducing the nest box is based more on the gestation timeline rather than the doe's past experience or comfort level. Therefore, the consensus is that a nest box is not needed right after breeding, making the assertion that this is false accurate.