Original scientific paper

Growth and Mortality of Suckling Rabbit

Martina Planinc ; University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical faculty, Department of Animal Science, Groblje 3, 1230 Domžale, Slovenia
Ajda Kermauner ; University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical faculty, Department of Animal Science, Groblje 3, 1230 Domžale, Slovenia
Špela Malovrh ; University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical faculty, Department of Animal Science, Groblje 3, 1230 Domžale, Slovenia
Milena Kovač ; University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical faculty, Department of Animal Science, Groblje 3, 1230 Domžale, Slovenia

Abstract

Rabbits are usually smaller and mortality is higher in large litters. The aim of the study was to estimate effects on mortality and growth in rabbits. The study was carried out in Slovenian SIKA sire line. In total, 430 kits of 60 does were included. In the analyses the effects of parity, number of liveborn kits and number of teats were analysed. Initial weight was included in the model for mortality, while age was included in the model for growth. Parity, litter size and teat number affected all traits, except on mortality. Body weight varied according to age. A total of 430 kits were observed, corresponding to an average litter size of 7.8 kits born, 7.3 kits born alive and 6.2 kits weaned. The birth to weaning mortality was 15.35% and mortality has steadily declined with age. Average weight up to age of three days was 75 g and at weaning 1035 g. Kits in smaller litters had a higher growth rate.

Keywords

rabbit; growth; mortality; litter size

Hrčak ID:

72104

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/72104

Publication date:

4.10.2011.

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