Effect of temperature on growth of newborn rabbits

The effect of cold exposure upon rabbits was investigated in order to study the interrelationships of food intake, growth and metabolic rate. Newborn rabbits were raised in 2 groups at environmental temperatures that produced a 50-100% difference in metabolic rate. No difference in growth rate or milk intake was apparent. Nucleic acid and protein content of several organs were measured and were similar. The paradox of a similarity in weight gain between the groups in the face of a similar intake of milk but different oxygen consumptions is discussed.