Performance of growing rabbits weaned at different ages, fed with two starch levels, from rabbit does subjected to different levels of energy on diet - DOI: 10.4025/actascianimsci.v31i4.6622

Abstract

240 litters of rabbits were used, from weaning to slaughter, in three parturition sequences, descended from rabbit does which were feed with different levels of digestible energy on diet and weaning age of young rabbits. The litters were allocated in a 2 x 2 x 2 x 3 factorial design (diets with 2600 and 2800 kcal DE kg^-1 until weaning versus weaning at 28 and 35 days old versus diets with 21 or 16% of starch from weaning to slaughter versus three parturition sequences), with 10 replications (litters). The 2600 kcal DE kg^-1 level improved weight gain, feed:gain ratio and reduced the diet cost from weaning to 50 days of age. Weaning at 28 days reduced the average feeding intake from weaning to slaughter. The higher level of starch reduced average feeding intake until 50 days of age and also reduced the cost. The parturition sequence increased the live weight at 70 days, daily weight gain and feeding intake during the experiment period, as well as heart, liver and kidney weight. The results suggest the use of feed with 2600 kcal DE kg^-1, weaning at 28 days old and 21% of starch on diet for rabbits from weaning to slaughter.