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[Changes in plasma parameters in rabbit does as a function of their physiological state and feed rationing]
Annales De Recherches Veterinaires. Annals of Veterinary Research
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Restricting feed in rabbit does slightly impacts plasma components, but pregnancy significantly alters levels. These biochemical changes during pregnancy and lactation offer insights into rabbit physiology.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Physiology
- Biochemistry
Context:
- Understanding the physiological and biochemical adaptations in female rabbits during reproductive cycles is crucial for optimizing breeding programs and animal welfare.
- Intensive breeding practices often involve controlled feeding regimens, necessitating an understanding of their impact on animal health.
- Hematological and plasma biochemical parameters serve as key indicators of an animal's physiological status.
Purpose:
- To investigate the effects of restricted feeding and physiological states (pregnancy, lactation) on hematocrit and plasma biochemical parameters in healthy rabbit does.
- To document the specific changes in plasma components such as electrolytes, proteins, lipids, and enzymes during pregnancy and lactation.
- To establish baseline biochemical profiles for healthy rabbit does under controlled breeding conditions.
Summary:
- Restricted feeding (75% of ad libitum intake) in healthy rabbit does had minimal impact on plasma component values, irrespective of blood collection timing or physiological state.
- Pregnancy in rabbit does induced significant changes: decreased total plasma protein, cholesterol, alkaline phosphatases activity, and hematocrit; triglycerides initially rose then fell markedly.
- During lactation, plasma component levels gradually reverted towards those observed in non-pregnant, non-lactating rabbits, indicating a return to baseline physiological state.
Impact:
- Provides essential reference data for hematological and plasma biochemical values in healthy rabbit does, aiding in the diagnosis of health issues.
- Highlights the significant biochemical shifts occurring during pregnancy and lactation, informing nutritional management and reproductive health strategies in rabbits.
- Contributes to the knowledge base of domestic rabbit physiology, supporting advancements in animal husbandry and welfare within intensive breeding systems.