Effect of restricted feeding on productive and carcass traits of rabbits

The study examined the age-dependent feed restriction on growing rabbits' growth and carcass traits. Three groups of weaned rabbits (5 weeks age, n=243)) were established: AL=control group: ad libitum feeding during whole fattening period (n=81), RF65 65% consumption AL first two after weaning, 80% in third, 100% fourth week afterward RF70 70% weeks, till slaughtering (n=81). Feed was line with planned level period. After finishing at 100%, increased rapidly, it higher between 9 11 age than that group (P<0.001). Daily weight gain restricted lower 5 7 (47.7 vs. 28.9 25.2 g/day AL, RF70, RF65, respectively, P<0.001). differences body weights highest seven later decreased (body AL: 2710 g, RF65: 2637 RF70: 2655 P <0.05). In week, conversion rate better group, while 10 Significant found mortality but independent treatment. had a slight effect fore part (P=0.053), liver heavier (84.2 80.1 P=0.388). perirenal fat content lowest (16.9 g) (21.6 P<0.05). A stricter then milder weaning final stages could be preferred.