Reproductive performance of rabbits on a low protein diet

Abstract

The growth and reproductive performance of rabbits reared on diet 18 and transferred to diet R14 (low protein/energy ratio) for (a) 3-4 weeks prior to mating or (b) 4 weeks prior to mating and throughout pregnancy were examined. Observations are presented on bodyweights, size and colour of the vulva and mating behaviour, pregnancy rate, and neonatal mortality. No significant differences were noted in comparison with 'controls' receiving Diet 18.