Raising the Neonatal Eastern Cottontail Rabbit: For Wildlife Rehabilitators - Second Edition Paperback – October 16, 2025

Eastern cottontail rabbits remain the most frequently encountered wild babies by the public and the most common admissions at wildlife rehabilitation centers. Yet, raising these fragile patients continues to challenge even experienced rehabilitators. Historically, the survival rate has been discouragingly low, leading many to limit or refuse cottontail intakes.This Second Edition builds upon Red Creek Wildlife Center’s groundbreaking 2022 research into reducing stress and anxiety in cottontails—key factors in improving survival. Expanded and updated, it now includes the latest formulas, revised feeding schedules, and new strategies for preventing digestive complications, one of the most common causes of mortality.With 175 fully illustrated pages, this manual offers step-by-step guidance from intake through release. Clear instructions, practical tips, and updated science make it an indispensable reference for wildlife rehabilitators committed to improving outcomes for neonatal cottontails.Topics include:• Reducing Anxiety to Increase Success• Understanding Nesting Behavior• Aging Nesting Cottontails• The Rescue Conversation• Dealing with the Public• Admission and Initial Care• Triage and Stabilization• Rehydration• Neonatal Care• Milk Composition and Feeding Methods (updated)• Weaning and Growth Benchmarks (updated)• Preventing and Managing Digestive Issues (expanded)• Cleaning and Hygiene• Wound Care• Euthanasia• Parasites and DiseasesPractical, research-driven, and field-tested, this Second Edition provides the most up-to-date tools and knowledge for giving neonatal Eastern cottontails the best chance at survival and release. Read more