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[Supplementary hay reduces fur chewing in rabbits]
A Mulder1, A E Nieuwenkamp, J G van der Palen
1Vakgroep Proefdierkunde, Utrecht.
Tijdschrift Voor Diergeneeskunde
|November 15, 1992
Summary
Supplementing rabbit diets with loose grass hay significantly reduces fur chewing and alopecia. This dietary change helps prevent fur plucking, especially on the forehead, and reduces gastric hair accumulation.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Fur chewing and alopecia are common issues in rabbits, potentially linked to diet and environmental enrichment.
- Understanding the impact of dietary fiber sources on rabbit welfare is crucial for preventing abnormal behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of loose grass hay as a dietary supplement in reducing fur chewing in rabbits.
- To compare the effects of loose hay versus hay incorporated into pellets on alopecia and gastric hair.
Main Methods:
- Three groups of weanling rabbits (n=315) were fed ad libitum: a control pelleted diet, a pelleted diet with 20% hay meal, or a control pelleted diet plus loose hay.
- Alopecia was assessed via blind scoring of live rabbits, and gastric hair was quantified post-slaughter.
Main Results:
- Rabbits receiving loose hay or hay-containing pellets showed significantly less alopecia on their backs and sides compared to controls.
- Only loose hay supplementation completely prevented forehead alopecia.
- Loose hay significantly reduced gastric hair, while hay meal in pellets had no effect.
Conclusions:
- Supplemental loose grass hay is effective in preventing fur chewing and associated alopecia in rabbits.
- The physical presence and texture of loose hay may be key to satisfying a rabbit's need for nibbling, thereby reducing abnormal behaviors.
- Dietary strategies, particularly the inclusion of fibrous roughage like loose hay, are vital for rabbit welfare and preventing self-inflicted injuries.