<b>Reproductive performance of rabbit does fed with rations containing different sources of vegetable oil</b> - DOI: 10.4025/actascianimsci.v28i3.43

Abstract

One hundred and twenty rabbit does, were evaluated during two productive cycles. The animals were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design, with four treatments (oil-free rations and 3% canola oil, corn oil or soybean oil rations) and 30 replications. While data of live weight of rabbit does were collected in each breeding, on birth, on the 21st and the 35th days of lactation, those on feed intake were recorded during gestation, on the first 21 days of lactation and during the total period of lactation (35 days). Data on the litters live weight and number on birth, on the 21st and the 35th days, were also obtained. There were no differences (p>0.05) among treatments with regard to performance parameters of rabbit does on the first reproductive cycle. However, data concerning the second cycle demonstrated a better live weight (p<0.05) on birth and on the 21st day of lactation in rabbit does fed on control and on 3% soybean oil rations. The number and live weight of litters, feed intake of these rabbit does and their litters were not influenced (p>0.05) by rations containing different sources of vegetable oil fed during the two reproductive cycles