What method is used to determine if a doe is pregnant?

The method used to determine if a doe is pregnant is palpation. This technique involves gently feeling the abdomen of the rabbit to check for signs of pregnancy, such as the presence of developing embryos. Experienced breeders can often feel the embryos as small lumps in the abdominal cavity, typically around 10-14 days post-breeding.

Palpation is a widely used method among rabbit breeders because it is a relatively quick and direct way to assess pregnancy without the need for specialized equipment. While other methods such as observation or ultrasound can provide additional information, they are generally less reliable or practical for routine pregnancy checks in rabbits.

Observational signs (like nesting behavior) can indicate that a doe may be pregnant but aren't definitive without further confirmation. Ultrasound is more commonly used in other animals and requires specialized equipment and training, making it less accessible for routine checks in rabbits. Blood tests can confirm pregnancy through hormone levels, but they are not as commonly performed due to the simpler effectiveness of palpation for breeders.