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[Pathology among breeding does. Evolution of several plasma parameters among primiparous rabbit does]
Annales De Recherches Veterinaires. Annals of Veterinary Research
|January 1, 1983
Summary
Reproductive pathology in rabbits, particularly low prolactin levels in does, is linked to high mortality in young rabbits and does. This study monitored blood markers during gestation and lactation to understand these critical reproductive issues.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Reproduction
- Biochemistry
Context:
- Reproductive pathology significantly limits rabbit production, causing both doe mortality and high pre-weaning mortality in young rabbits.
- Understanding the physiological changes in primiparous rabbit does during gestation and lactation is crucial for improving herd health and productivity.
- Previous research has not fully elucidated the specific biochemical markers associated with reproductive failure in does.
Purpose:
- To investigate alterations in hematocrit and plasma electrolyte (Na, K, Ca, Mg), inorganic phosphate (Pi), total protein, and prolactin levels during gestation and lactation in primiparous rabbit does.
- To identify potential biochemical indicators of impending death in rabbit does experiencing reproductive pathology.
- To explore the relationship between plasma prolactin levels and the success of litter weaning.
Summary:
- In rabbit does that died, initial findings indicated decreased plasma sodium-potassium (NaK) and calcium (Ca) concentrations, alongside increased magnesium (Mg).
- A significant drop in plasma prolactin concentration was observed before death, suggesting its role in the pathology.
- Lower average prolactin levels during gestation and early lactation were noted in does that failed to wean their entire litter, supporting a link between dam's physiological state and offspring mortality.
Impact:
- These findings provide critical insights into the biochemical underpinnings of reproductive pathology in rabbits.
- Identifying key markers like prolactin could lead to improved diagnostic tools and interventions for reducing mortality in rabbit farming.
- This research supports the hypothesis that offspring mortality is intrinsically linked to the dam's physiological condition, paving the way for targeted management strategies.