Unveiling the attributes of rabbit milk.

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Dairy Science
• Reproductive Biology

Background:

• Understanding rabbit milk composition is crucial for improving rabbit kit health and growth in breeding programs.
• Previous research has not comprehensively detailed the physicochemical properties of rabbit milk throughout lactation or the influence of reproductive status.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive physicochemical analysis of rabbit milk.
• To investigate the impact of the doe's reproductive status on daily milk yield and milk composition.
• To assess changes in milk attributes throughout consecutive lactations.

Main Methods:

• Study conducted on a commercial rabbit farm using Hycole does over three consecutive lactations.
• Daily milk yield was recorded.
• Physicochemical analyses included total solids, solids-not-fat, protein, casein, lactose, fatty acids (C18:2, C18:3), Somatic Cell Count (SCC), pH, and fat globule size distribution.

Main Results:

• Daily milk production increased from day 2 to day 14 of lactation, reaching approximately 300 g/day.
• Lactation stage significantly altered milk's total solids, solids-not-fat, protein, casein, lactose, fatty acids, SCC, and pH.
• Fat globule diameter increased from 5 to 7 µm during lactation, with a decrease in small fat globules, potentially reducing milk digestibility.
• Pregnancy negatively impacted milk production, kit growth, and milk content of protein, solids-not-fat, and lactose.

Conclusions:

• Rabbit milk composition and yield are dynamic throughout lactation and are influenced by the doe's reproductive status.
• The decrease in small fat globules during lactation may affect nutrient absorption in rabbit kits.
• Overlapping lactation and pregnancy periods could negatively affect rabbit kit development due to reduced milk quality and quantity.