What Is a Female Rabbit Called?
An adult female rabbit is called a doe.
Doe is the standard term used for domestic and wild female rabbits. It appears in veterinary notes, rescue descriptions, breeding records, and discussions of pregnancy and nesting.
How the Word Doe Is Used
A rabbit may be described as an intact doe or a spayed female. The word identifies sex and does not indicate age beyond adulthood, breed, temperament, or reproductive status.
Nesting and False Pregnancy
An unspayed doe may gather hay, build a nest, pull fur, or become territorial during pregnancy or a false pregnancy. Behavior alone cannot confirm whether she is pregnant.
Why This Detail Matters
Young rabbit: kit or kitten
Spaying and Long-Term Care
Spaying prevents pregnancy and is commonly discussed for reproductive-health and behavior benefits. The safest timing and individual risk should be reviewed with a rabbit-savvy veterinarian.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Adult female: doe
- Young rabbit: kit or kitten
- Spayed female is still a doe
- Nesting does not always mean pregnancy
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a female rabbit called a hen?
No. Hen refers to an adult female chicken and some other birds.
Are does always territorial?
No. Hormones can influence territorial behavior, but personality, space, bonding, pain, and past experience also matter.
Can a doe become pregnant immediately after giving birth?
Yes. Rabbits can become fertile again very quickly, which is one reason intact males must be separated appropriately.