Effect of Feed Restriction on Linear Body Measurements and Weight Changes of Pregnant Rabbit Does

Abstract

A four- week study was conducted to determine the effect of varying levels and periods of feed restriction during pregnancy on linear body measurements and weight changes of rabbit does. A total of thirty six rabbit does (36) were grouped into three consisting of 12 rabbits does each. These rabbit does were exposed to three levels of quantitative feed restriction (0, 15 and 30%) at three different periods of gestation (15-19, 20-24 and 25-29 days). Data collected on performance and linear body measurements were arranged in a 3x3 factorial experimental layout and then subjected to completely randomised design using (SAS, 1999). The result showed significant differences (p<0.05) in final weight and weight gain. While, all other parameters measured for linear body measurement were not significantly (p>0.05) affected. In this study, it was revealed that the levels and periods of feed restriction do not have any negative effect on linear body measurement of pregnant rabbit does.