Small breeds may reach sexual maturity by the age of 4 months, large breeds may take six months or so, but it is advisable to delay breeding until around the ages of six or ten months respectively. The remarkable proliferation of rabbits is partly due to the fact that the female does not have a true estrous cycle. She is able to conceive at any time, even almost immediately after giving birth.

This is why the buck should be separated immediately after mating, since it would be unfair to expect her to produce a continual stream of offspring. Certain factors such as molting, lactation, underfeeding, and the seasons may limit her potential to be on heat for long periods.