When to butcher

[WhiteMountainsRanch]

*Fryer or young rabbit refer to a rabbit weighing not less than 1 pounds and rarely more than 3 pounds, and less than 12 weeks of age. The flesh is tender, fine grained, and a bright pearly pink color. These rabbits may be cooked in much the same way as young poultry.

*Roaster or mature rabbitthe terms "roaster" or "mature rabbit" refer to a mature rabbit of any weight, but usually over 4 pounds and over 8 months of age. The flesh is firm and coarse grained, and the muscle fiber is slightly darker in color and less tender. The fat may be more creamy in color than that of a fryer or young rabbit. The meat of larger rabbits may be tougher so the best methods of cooking are braising or stewing.

I've done all mine at all ages less than 8 months old with great success! Haven't had any problem with them being tough. It's really up to YOU when you want to do them. Young and small or let them grow out a bit and get more meat.

 

[mama24]

*Fryer or young rabbit refer to a rabbit weighing not less than 1 pounds and rarely more than 3 pounds, and less than 12 weeks of age. The flesh is tender, fine grained, and a bright pearly pink color. These rabbits may be cooked in much the same way as young poultry.

*Roaster or mature rabbitthe terms "roaster" or "mature rabbit" refer to a mature rabbit of any weight, but usually over 4 pounds and over 8 months of age. The flesh is firm and coarse grained, and the muscle fiber is slightly darker in color and less tender. The fat may be more creamy in color than that of a fryer or young rabbit. The meat of larger rabbits may be tougher so the best methods of cooking are braising or stewing.

I've done all mine at all ages less than 8 months old with great success! Haven't had any problem with them being tough. It's really up to YOU when you want to do them. Young and small or let them grow out a bit and get more meat.

I bought a rabbit at the farmer's market last week from a friend. I believe it was the doe he told me he was going to cull b/c the rabbit weighed 6+lbs dressed!!! LOL. She was still tender and delicious. I actually think the flavor and texture were even better than the young ones we usually get! B/c of that experience, i think I am going to grow my litters out until they are quite big before butchering.

 

[AZ Rabbits]

It really depends on if you're looking for size or optimal feed to meat ratio output. The time in which the feed to meat conversion takes a dive is 8 to 10 weeks. That's why people butcher at that time. It has nothing to do with the tenderness of the meat. If you're looking for more meat on the rabbit, wait longer. However, know that by waiting longer your feed to meat conversion is going down dramatically...