Bun Club Wiki - User contributions [en]

JumpstartPaste:

2026-02-23T16:36:38Z

BCAdmin: /* Dose: */

==Drug class:==

==Dose:==
Approx a pea sized lump on inner cheek as long as animal is conscious.

==Indications:==
Any time antibiotics are used , bloat, GI upset Or stress.

==Side Effects==

==During Pregnancy or Nursing==

==Patient Tips==

==Drug Interactions==

==Compare Alternatives==

JumpstartPaste:

2026-02-23T16:35:55Z

BCAdmin: /* Indications: */

==Drug class:==

==Dose:==

==Indications:==
Any time antibiotics are used , bloat, GI upset Or stress.

==Side Effects==

==During Pregnancy or Nursing==

==Patient Tips==

==Drug Interactions==

==Compare Alternatives==

B-Complex vit injectable:

2026-02-23T16:35:07Z

BCAdmin: /* Indications: */

==Drug class:==

==Dose:==

==Indications:==
Give to rabbits to help when under the weather or not eating.
Will increase gut motility and appetite.

==Side Effects==

==During Pregnancy or Nursing==

==Patient Tips==

==Drug Interactions==

==Compare Alternatives==

Rabbit Care

2026-02-23T16:34:31Z

BCAdmin: /* Alphabetically: */

=Rabbit Care=

==Baseline Vitals==
Normal:
Temperature: normal range 100.5f-102.5f ,
Does about to give birth may have a drop to as low as 98f

Capillary Refill : less than 2 secs.

==Anatomy==
[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Anatomy Anatomy of the Rabbit]

please use the formatting that follows for all condition articles
* ==Etiology (cause)==
* ==Clinical Signs==
* ==Treatment, Prevention, and Control==

https://cals.cornell.edu/sites/default/files/2021-12/rabbit_decatholon_senior_remediated.pdf

=Physical Warning Signs =

==Nose==
*Bloody Nose
*Thick White Mucus
*labored or mouth breathing

==Fecal Abnormalities ==

*Normal Poo: Rabbit poo should be round, dark brown or Black approx. 1/4 in diameter, and should have a very firm, but slightly moist consistency, it should break apart when squeezed, but not crumble.
*Light colored "Golden" poo : GoldenPoo is a sign of a rabbit getting TOO MUCH FIBER .
*Long oddly shaped Soft and sticky poo.
*Stringy Poo
*White or Clear Mucus
*Diarrhea

==Urine==
Rabbits do pee rainbows so colored urine is not always an issue, but some colors do flag possible issues.

*Normal Rabbit Urine ranges in colors from almost clear, to a dark Yellow, Red, and White.

*red urine (They should only pee red when fed red veggies)

*white urine, may be a sign of balder sludge, but this is not necessarily abnormal or means your rabbit is sick. White Urine if only occasionally may mean that your feed is high in calcium. Normal Rabbit Physiology is set up to process excess calcium, and even bladder sludge. this will become an issue if your rabbit has a genetic predisposition to narrow urethra, or poor mobility. If Your rabbit has poor mobility you will want to switch it to a lower calcium Diet, and add supplements to help mitigate bladder sludge.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/rabbit-calcium-metabolism-bladder-sludge-and-urolithiasis-proceedings

https://www.vin.com/apputil/content/defaultadv1.aspx?pId=11310&catId=33767&id=4516322&ind=155&objTypeID=17

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1094919407000679?via%3Dihub

==Coat Texture==
*Dry, Brittle Coat
*Oily coat

==Eyes==

Healthy eyes should be clear, Bright , and alert.
Warning signs that your rabbit may be sick are:
* Squinted eyes, " Ouchie Face" this is an out ward indication your rabbit may be in pain, often a sign of bloat or gastric issues.
* Weepy eyes, can be a sign of allergy or eye irritations.
* White mucus/puss coming from the corner of the eye, several warnings: including eye infection, Pasteurella, Sinus, tooth or ear infection.
* Blood coming from eyes, examine for a physical injury, or RHDv2.
* White or cloudy film ON the surface of the cornea, eye infection, conjunctivitis, scratched cornea, entropion eyelid.
* White or Cloudy film INSIDE the pupal, E.C., Parasites, Cataracts or Juvenile Cataracts.

=Diseases and Treatments=

https://www.fao.org/3/t0756e/T0756E09.htm

the following are links to in-depth pages on each item, as well as lists of topics you can peruse.

==Medicine Cabinet==

You should keep these Emergency items in your medicine cabinet. Antibiotics highlighted in red
[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JRR3XzP3XKT_tFOTJ6_wFDURolGPWtpa/view?usp=share_link Exotic Animal Formulary -_by James W Carpenter 4th ed] Rabbits starts on page 537

===By Use===
[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Antimicrobial_Agents Antimicrobial Agents Used in Rabbits.]

===Alphabetically:===

#
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=4x4_Gauze: 4x4 Gauze]

A
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Apple_cider_vinegar: Apple Cider Vinegar]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Athletes_Foot_Cream: Athletes Foot Cream ]

B
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=B-Complex_vit_injectable: B-Complex Injectable]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Mylicon:: Baby Gas Drops]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Baby_wipes: Baby Wipes]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Bleach: Bleach]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Blue_kote: Blue Kote]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Toltrazuril5 Baycox]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Baytril Baytril]

C
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Corid: Corid ]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Corn_Syrup: Corn Syrup]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Cotton_Balls: Cotton Balls]

D
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Draxxin Draxxin]

E
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Elm_bark : Elm Bark]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Electrolyte_powder: Electrolyte Powder]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Exam_gloves: Exam Gloves]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Baytril Enrofloxacin]
F

G
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Grip_eWater: Gripe Water ]

H

I
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=ImodiumAD: Imodium AD]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Iodine: Iodine]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Iron100injectable: Iron 100 injectable]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Ivermectin: Ivermectin]

J
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=JumpstartPaste: Jumpstart Paste]

K

L
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Lighter: Lighter]
* LA 200 , Liquamycin 
* LA 300 , Noromycin ** harder to dose for rabbits due to concentration

M
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Mineral_oil: Mineral oil]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Molasses: Molasses]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Monistat_7: Monistat 7]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Mylicon: Mylicon]

N
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=needles: Needles]

O
*oxytetracycline (LA 200) (LA 300)

P
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Peroxide: Peroxide ]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=PreparationH: Preparation H]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=ProbioticPowder: Probiotic Powder]
*

Q
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Q-tips: Q-tips]

R
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Redcell: Red cell]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Rubbingalcohol: Rubbing alcohol]

S
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=SafeGuard: SafeGuard ]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=slave: Slave]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Simethicone: Simethicone]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Selenium-EpasteGel: Selenium-E paste/Gel]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Sweetoil: Sweet oil]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Syringes: Syringes]

T
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Toltrazuril5 Toltrazuril 5%]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=TripleAntibioticOintment : Triple Antibiotic Ointment]
*

U

V
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Vaseline: Vaseline]

W
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=WonderDust: Wonder Dust]

X

Y

Z

==Bacterial==

*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Abscess&action=edit&redlink=1 Abscess]
*Blue Breast
*Conjunctivitis
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/E.Coli E.Coli ]
*Enteritis Complex
*Enterotoxaemia
*Foot Abscess
*Hemorrhagic Septicemia
*Listeria
*Listerious
*Mastitis
*Metritis
*Mucoid Enteritis
*Nest Box Eye
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Pasteurella Pasteurella ]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Pasteurella Pasteurelosis]
*Pneumonia
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Pseudomonas Pseudomonas]
*Rabbit Syphilis
*Salmonella
*Salmonellosis
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Pasteurella Snuffles]
*Sore Eye
*Tyzzer's Disease
*Vent Disease
*Weaning Enteritis
*Weepy Eye
*Wry Neck

==Viral==

*Infectious Myxomatosis
*Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease 1 and 2
*Myxomatosis

==Fungal==

*Dermatophytosis
*Ring Worm

==Parasitic==

===External Parasites===
*Warbles
*Bot Fly
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Flea Fleas ]
*Fly strike
*Fur Mites
*Mange Mite
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Ear_mites Ear Mites]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Ear_mites Ear Canker]

===Internal Parasites ===

*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Worms Pin Worms]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Worms Tape Worms]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Worms Whip Worms]
*Nosema
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/E.Cuniculi E.Cuniculi]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Coccidia Coccidia]
**Intestinal
** Hepatic

*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Liver_Flukes Liver Flukes]

==Non-Infectious Conditions==
===Cancer===
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Cancer Cancer]
===Gastrointestinal===
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/GI_stasis#Treatment%2C_Prevention%2C_and_Control GI stasis]

===Reproductive Issues===
* Cannibalism
* Ketosis
* Heat sterilization : Ginger added to the feed stopped the heat sterilization https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32819074/
* Pregnancy Toxemia
* Caked Breast
* "Young Doe Death Syndrome"
* Orphaned Kits
* Scattering Young
* Early Nest Box Fatalities
* Milk Enterotoxaemia
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/De-sexing_complications de-sexing complications]

===Common Injury or Self-inflected===
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Cancer Cancer]
* Fighting
* Fur Chewing
* Hair/Wool Block
* Wet-Dewlap* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Pseudomonas can lead to infectious Pseudomonas]
* Wry-Neck
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Sore_Hocks Sore Hocks]
* Ulcerated Footpads

===Dental===
* Slobbers
* Tooth Abscess

===Genetic Abnormalities Birth Defects ===
* Fetal Giantism
* Microcardia
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Malocclusion Malocclusion ]
* Calcium Sludge.
https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124899522358267182?_t=8VSTtKvO62A&_r=1
* Torticollis
* Dystocia
* "Young Doe Death Syndrome"
* Enterotoxaemia
* Mastitis
* Staphylococcus sp.
* Agalactia
* Red Urine
* Paralysis of Hindquarter
* Hutch Burn/Urine scald
* Corneal Ulcer
* Keratitis
* Glaucoma
* Heat Prostration
* Coprophagy
* Non-Specific Diarrhea
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Porcelain_Gallbladder Porcelain Gallbladder]
* Fatty Liver

[https://reader.elsevier.com/reader/sd/pii/B9780124095274000109?token=DD76077F427AB1151870A718E5C06BF8DD659A1EED297CF29E4A260F08B9C03747109794F2CDDC1A497EB31C08937A01&originRegion=us-east-1&originCreation=20220102154434]

=Housing=

Wire floored cages are fine for most breeds of rabbits as long as the correct wire is used .

Mylicon:

2026-02-23T16:33:00Z

BCAdmin: /* Indications: */

Comon advice ;
For bloat, get baby gas drops, and gripe water . Give every 15 minutes until symptoms subside

Pratical advice tested. More evidence the mechanical mecinisium of use actually make it worse ..

probiotics are more effective in controlling gas.

==Drug class:==

==Dose:==
Can be pushed hard as long as the rabbit is showing signs of bloat.

==Indications:==
Bloated belly, Mylicon works as a Physical reaction not a drug perse. it physically breaks the gas into smaller bubbles to help it move through the gut and out.

It works best administered and then bouncing the rabbits butt, or giving gentile tummy massages.

It does not stop bloating or help with underlying issue .. probiodic is a better more effective route.

==Side Effects==

==During Pregnancy or Nursing==

==Patient Tips==

==Drug Interactions==

==Compare Alternatives==
Probiodic are more effective then useing gas drops .

Dose rabbit with probiodics to control gas being caused by bad bacteria.

Mylicon:

2026-02-23T16:31:30Z

BCAdmin: /* Compare Alternatives */

Comon advice ;
For bloat, get baby gas drops, and gripe water . Give every 15 minutes until symptoms subside

Pratical advice tested. More evidence the mechanical mecinisium of use actually make it worse ..

probiotics are more effective in controlling gas.

==Drug class:==

==Dose:==
Can be pushed hard as long as the rabbit is showing signs of bloat.

==Indications:==
Bloated belly, Mylicon works as a Physical reaction not a drug perse. it physically breaks the gas into smaller bubbles to help it move through the gut and out.

It works best administered and then bouncing the rabbits butt, or giving gentile tummy massages.

==Side Effects==

==During Pregnancy or Nursing==

==Patient Tips==

==Drug Interactions==

==Compare Alternatives==
Probiodic are more effective then useing gas drops .

Dose rabbit with probiodics to control gas being caused by bad bacteria.

Mylicon:

2026-02-23T16:30:45Z

BCAdmin:

Comon advice ;
For bloat, get baby gas drops, and gripe water . Give every 15 minutes until symptoms subside

Pratical advice tested. More evidence the mechanical mecinisium of use actually make it worse ..

probiotics are more effective in controlling gas.

==Drug class:==

==Dose:==
Can be pushed hard as long as the rabbit is showing signs of bloat.

==Indications:==
Bloated belly, Mylicon works as a Physical reaction not a drug perse. it physically breaks the gas into smaller bubbles to help it move through the gut and out.

It works best administered and then bouncing the rabbits butt, or giving gentile tummy massages.

==Side Effects==

==During Pregnancy or Nursing==

==Patient Tips==

==Drug Interactions==

==Compare Alternatives==

Trusted Vets

2026-01-17T17:36:08Z

BCAdmin:

==List of Trusted Vets and Resources==

*Dr. Chris Hayhow DVM PHD DACVM
President ARBA
Chillicothe, OH
Phone: 913-585-1434
Email: ARBAJudge581@att.net

*Dr. Jay Hreiz, NC **Jehvmd08@comcast.net
*Dr. Tiffany Bohlman, IL
*Dr. Wendy Feaga, MD
*Dr. Alfred Mina, HI
*Dr. Fritz Trybus, IL
*Dr. T.E. Reed

*Dr Ashley Morgan, DVM
**Noblesville IN
**Phone: 317-770-0399

*Dr. Brent Crabtree
**Lapel IN
**phone: (765)534-3142
**email:LACFamily@lapelvet.com

==Trusted Websites==

https://arba.net/

==SUGGESTED READING==
RAISING BETTER RABITS AND CAVIES (Official Guide Book of the American Rabbit
Breeders Association
RABBIT COAT COLOR GENETICS By Glenna M. Huffmon
RABBIT PRODUCTION By Cheeke/Patton/Lukefahr/McNitt

[https://cemadera.ucanr.edu/files/45163.pdf Rabbit Study Guide]

Trusted Vets

2026-01-17T17:35:01Z

BCAdmin:

==List of Trusted Vets and Resources==

*Dr. Chris Hayhow DVM PHD DACVM
President ARBA
Chillicothe, OH
Phone: 913-585-1434
Email: ARBAJudge581@att.net

*Dr. Jay Hreiz, NC
Jehvmd08@comcast.net
*Dr. Tiffany Bohlman, IL
*Dr. Wendy Feaga, MD
*Dr. Alfred Mina, HI
*Dr. Fritz Trybus, IL
*Dr. T.E. Reed

*Dr Ashley Morgan, DVM
-Noblesville IN
-Phone: 317-770-0399

*Dr. Brent Crabtree
-Lapel IN
-phone: (765)534-3142
-email:LACFamily@lapelvet.com

==Trusted Websites==

https://arba.net/

==SUGGESTED READING==
RAISING BETTER RABITS AND CAVIES (Official Guide Book of the American Rabbit
Breeders Association
RABBIT COAT COLOR GENETICS By Glenna M. Huffmon
RABBIT PRODUCTION By Cheeke/Patton/Lukefahr/McNitt

[https://cemadera.ucanr.edu/files/45163.pdf Rabbit Study Guide]

Rabbit Feeding Guide

2025-11-09T05:14:23Z

BCAdmin: /* Proteins */

= Introduction =

If you search online, you’ll repeatedly find the claim that rabbits should have diets consisting of 80% hay or even an all-hay diet. This recommendation largely originates from the House Rabbit Society (HRS), an extreme animal rights organization that has promoted this 80% hay diet and associated messaging for decades. Oxbow Animal Health, a major supplier of rabbit food, partners with HRS and provides funding, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

For over 20 years, the House Rabbit Society has engaged with soon-to-be exotic animal veterinarians (DVMs), offering support to help them start their practices focused on rabbits. This relationship has resulted in many veterinarians adopting HRS-influenced care practices, which include the widely promoted 80% hay diet. Consequently, this diet recommendation has become entrenched despite significant flaws.

If you review rabbit care guidelines from major universities such as Purdue, UC Davis, Colorado State University, and Washington State University, you’ll notice HRS’s influence in their citations and fine print. This is reflected in feeding recommendations on Oxbow product packaging, which dominate the pet rabbit market. The resulting proliferation of this diet advice has perpetuated misinformation.

An important historical note: in the 1990s, the House Rabbit Society conflated care advice for rabbits and cavies (guinea pigs), even suggesting they could share diets and housing. When it became clear that cavies and rabbits can transmit diseases to each other , HRS retracted the cohabitation advice—but never revisited or corrected their dietary stance for rabbits.

Further scrutiny reveals that much of the 80% hay diet recommendation traces back to a single book co-authored by Susan Brown and Jeff Jenkins titled *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets* (1993). This book, difficult to obtain today, was frequently cited by HRS and related groups as a definitive source for the hay-first diet. However, more recent research by F. Lebas and others has discredited the outdated nutritional guidance in this book. The diet promoted therein fails to meet the minimum nutritional requirements for maintaining healthy rabbits.

Therefore, the House Rabbit Society is not a reliable source for rabbit care information. Their recommendations are often outdated or inaccurate and don’t always reflect current research. For trustworthy guidance, consult the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), the World Rabbit Congress, or reputable breeders ' organizations with access to the latest research and expertise.

One fundamental reason rabbits and cavies require different diets is their distinct gut microbiota, despite some anatomical similarities. A 2017 study by Crowley et al. using next-generation sequencing highlighted significant differences in the microbial populations between rabbits and guinea pigs, confirming that their digestive mechanisms differ substantially.

Furthermore, ARBA care guides, developed by a panel of veterinarians, recommend diets where pellets form the majority component, not hay. Supporting this, research comparing wild and domestic rabbits’ dental and digestive health found that hay is nutritionally poor and difficult to chew, often leading to malocclusion and periodontal disease caused by hay getting trapped between teeth. Wild rabbits are selective feeders, preferring high-nutrition fresh forage and resorting to dried grasses or hay only during starvation or severe winter conditions to survive.

== References ==
* Crowley EJ, King JM, Wilkinson T, Worgan HJ, Huson KM, Rose MT, McEwan NR. (2017). Comparison of the microbial population in rabbits and guinea pigs by next-generation sequencing. PLoS ONE 12(2): e0165779. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0165779
* Jenkins J., Brown S. (1993). *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets*. [Publisher info if available]
* [Link to ARBA Care Guides https://arba.net/arba-recommendations-for-the-care-of-rabbits-and-cavies/]
* [Link to World Rabbit Congress resources http://world-rabbit-science.com/]

= Pellet Feeding Recommendations =

[[File:RabbitFeeding-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Rabbits do best on a Complete Balanced Alfalfa Based Pellet. 16% protein, 15-20% Fiber.]]

The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recommends feeding a completely balanced pellet as the primary and main source of nutrition for domestic rabbits. When selecting a suitable pellet, it is important to use a baseline of approximately:

* 16% crude protein
* 18% crude fiber
* A grass or legume-based ingredient as the first listed component on the label

These specifications help ensure that your rabbits receive sufficient nutrients for maintenance, growth, and reproductive performance.

Most feeding guidelines recommend providing pellets twice daily, with the total daily amount equaling approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of the rabbit’s ideal adult body weight. Rabbits are crepuscular by nature—most active during dawn and dusk—with periods of rest and digestion during the day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would be fed roughly 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and another 5 ounces in the evening.

It is recommended that a completely balanced pellet constitute between 80% and 100% of a rabbit’s overall diet. This approach helps to ensure that the rabbit’s nutritional requirements are met in a consistent and controlled manner.

Fresh vegetables and greens should be limited to no more than one or two tablespoons total per day. These fresh plants are best used in small quantities for their supplemental or medicinal properties rather than as a primary nutrient source. Feeding excessive fresh fruits or vegetables can disrupt the delicate balance of the rabbit’s hindgut flora and motility, which may result in bacterial overgrowth, gastrointestinal stasis, and potentially fatal bloat.

== Why is Oxbow not recommended? ==

Oxbow is one of the most widely marketed rabbit pellet brands and is often promoted by the House Rabbit Society. However, Oxbow’s formulation tends to have lower protein levels and higher fiber content than what is considered optimal for rabbit health. While rabbits fed Oxbow pellets may survive, their long-term health and condition often suffer.

To put this in perspective, a rabbit’s diet must provide a minimum of 14% digestible protein energy (DE) to maintain condition and support normal metabolic functions. This generally translates to a feed containing about 16% crude protein on a dry matter (DM) basis. A pellet containing only 14% crude protein DM provides closer to 12% DE protein, which is barely enough to sustain life, let alone promote growth or healthy fur and muscle maintenance.

Rabbits consuming diets low in digestible protein often develop a flabby, wasted body condition and exhibit constant shedding or poor coat quality. In addition, fiber levels in the diet should not exceed approximately 22% to prevent the dilution of essential nutrients. If the protein content decreases, the fiber content should decrease proportionally. For example, an Oxbow formula with 14% crude protein and 25% fiber will have a further reduced bioavailability of essential nutrients, with only about 9% DE protein effectively available to the animal, leading to malnutrition and poor health outcomes.

For these reasons, feeds such as ADM Pen Pals 16%, which contains no whole or ground corn and is balanced for all life stages, are preferred. Other recommended brands or formulations include:

* Small World 16% by Manna Pro
* Kambalch 16%
* Rowe 16%
* Hienold Commercial or Wool Formula
* Pen Pals 16%

These recommended pellets are typically alfalfa-based and contain a minimum of 16% crude protein DM with fiber content ranging between 15% and 22%. It is also advisable to avoid feeds containing whole corn kernels, which provide poor-quality nutrition. However, corn distillers, which contain the protein-rich germ without the hull or starch, are acceptable as an ingredient.

== Nuanced Feeding Recommendations ==

=== Feeding Nursing and Pregnant Does ===

Nursing and pregnancy have significantly increased protein and energy requirements to support fetal growth and subsequent milk production. For the first two weeks of pregnancy, it is generally recommended to maintain the doe on a standard maintenance diet containing about 16% protein.

Starting in the third week of pregnancy, the diet should be gradually transitioned to a higher protein ratio, around 18%, to meet the increased nutritional demands. Once the doe has given birth and is nursing kits, she should be allowed free access to a high-quality 18% protein pellet to support continued milk production and recovery.

Several safe and effective feed additives can be included in the diet of nursing does to enhance milk yield. These include:

* Steam-rolled or traditional old-fashioned oats
* Calf manna
* Black oil sunflower seeds

These supplements should be offered in small quantities—generally half to one teaspoon per feeding—in a separate bowl to avoid contamination or waste of pellets.

Bananas (fruit only, no peel) can be offered to pregnant does in limited amounts to provide a natural source of potassium and sugars, which are beneficial during the late stages of fetal development. For nursing does, small amounts of banana peel can also be given, but care must be taken as the peel contains compounds that may induce uterine contractions. Therefore, banana peel should never be given to does before or during pregnancy but can be safely provided immediately after birth.

Additionally, Tums (either plain or fruit-flavored) can serve as a calcium supplement to nursing does. One or two Tums daily for the first few days postpartum can help boost calcium availability for milk production, with occasional supplementation continuing through the nursing period.

*Foods to avoid during pregnancy and nursing:*
** Plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae) should be avoided as they may dry up milk production. They can be given to does only after litter loss or post-weaning when drying up the doe.
** Banana peel must be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential to induce contractions, but it is safe after kindling.

=== Feeding Weanling Rabbits (8 to 20 weeks) ===

Weanlings are in a rapid growth phase and require a diet higher in protein to support development. They should be fed a complete pellet containing between 17% and 20% protein and given free access to ensure adequate intake.

=== Feeding Adult Non-Producing Rabbits ===

Adult rabbits not involved in breeding, gestation, or lactation have more moderate nutritional requirements. Protein levels between 15% and 17% are generally sufficient, provided the pellet contains a minimum of 15% fiber.

Pellets for non-producing adults can be based on timothy or alfalfa hay. Avoid pellets with a grain-based ingredient list, as these are less suitable for optimal rabbit health.

Daily intake guidelines remain at approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of ideal body weight, divided into two feedings per day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would receive approximately 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and 5 ounces in the evening.

=== Conditioning Show Rabbits ===

[[File:FINISHING MIX-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Diet can be amended for different life stages and for special conditioning]]

Show rabbits often require specialized dietary adjustments depending on the life stage or conditioning goals. Some common dietary supplements used to optimize coat quality, muscle tone, and digestive health include:

* **Coat Finishers:** Supplements rich in vitamin E and fat are often used to improve coat luster and texture. Black oil sunflower seeds (BOS) are a popular natural source of these nutrients.
* **Muscle and Flesh Conditioners:** Protein boosters such as whey powder, rolled oats, and barley may be added to the diet to promote muscle development and firmness of flesh, particularly before shows.
* **Digestive Aids:** Enzymatic supplements like papaya enzyme powder assist in nutrient absorption and can help break down ingested wool or fur during shedding seasons.
* **Fiber Supplements:** Small amounts of grass hays and beet pulp shreds can be offered to support gut motility and health. However, be mindful that beet pulp can be high in sugars, so quantities should be kept small. Shredded plain pumpkin is also used as a mild fiber supplement and digestive aid.

= Other Feed Additives =

== Proteins ==
Rabbits require adequate protein for maintenance, growth, and reproduction. While maintenance feeds with 12%-15% protein can sustain non-producing rabbits, a balanced ration containing around 16% protein produces better overall health and condition. Providing a single feed with sufficient protein for all life stages is often easier for management.

* Corn Distillers: Do not confuse whole or cracked corn with corn distillers, which are the protein-rich remnants after fermentation removes sugars. Sugars promote harmful bacterial overgrowth leading to bloat and GI stasis, so avoiding whole corn kernels is critical.

* Soybean: Studies show soybean is a superior protein source compared to cowpea or pigeon pea for growing rabbits. Cowpea varieties with high tannin content may harm kidneys and are not recommended as sole protein sources.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0377840119309927

https://en.engormix.com/pig-industry/amino-acids-swine-nutrition/the-ideal-protein-concept_a50963/

https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-024-06322-2

== Fat ==
Fats provide concentrated energy and are important for coat and skin health. Common fat sources include oils and black oil sunflower seeds, which also supply essential fatty acids and vitamin E.

== Carbohydrates ==
Carbohydrates provide energy, but care must be taken to avoid simple sugars that disrupt gut flora.

* Corn: Whole or cracked corn kernels should never be fed to rabbits. However, certain corn by-products (like corn distillers) are acceptable when used correctly.

* Oats and Beet Pulp Shreds: These are common carbohydrate sources that also provide some fiber.

== Fiber ==
Fiber is crucial for maintaining healthy digestive motility and preventing gut disorders. The quality and particle size of fiber directly influence gut health and immune function.

* Excessively high fiber (>25% Acid Detergent Fiber) dilutes dietary energy and reduces growth rates because rabbits cannot consume enough feed to compensate.

* Studies indicate that fiber particle size affects mortality, immunity, and gut bacteria populations in rabbits, with heterogeneous particle sizes increasing lignin content and digestive stress.

Common fiber sources include timothy hay and beet pulp shreds, which help maintain optimal gut function.

== Enzymes ==
Enzymatic supplements can aid digestion, especially during periods of stress or dietary transition. These include papaya enzyme and other proteolytic enzymes.

== Supplements ==
Additional supplements may be used to address specific nutritional needs or to support reproductive performance, coat condition, or digestive health. These are best used judiciously and tailored to the animal's life stage and condition.

== Notes and References ==
* See detailed reviews on fiber digestion and its effects on rabbit health (Gidenne 1996, De Blas 1999, Licois & Gidenne 1999, Bennegadi et al. 2000).
* Particle size and fiber content significantly affect mortality, immune response, and gut bacterial populations (source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108).
* Avoid feeding whole or cracked corn kernels; use corn distillers cautiously.

== Common Types of Hay and Their Nutritional Profiles ==

=== Timothy Hay (Phleum pratense L.) ===
* Protein: ~3–13.8% DM (varies with storage and age)
* Fiber: ~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7–10.9% DM

Timothy hay is popular for fiber supplementation but cannot support adult rabbits alone due to low protein and energy digestibility. Its lysine content is low, meeting only about 70% of growing rabbits' needs. Calcium content is low (~0.33%), which can be either advantageous or limiting depending on the overall diet.

=== Alfalfa Hay (Medicago sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~18.3% DM
* Fiber: ~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~4.5% DM

Alfalfa is highly palatable and widely used as a fiber and protein source. It promotes digestive motility and caecal flora balance. Inclusion recommendations vary but typically fall between 20–40%. High inclusion levels (>80%) have shown mortality reduction in some studies but may risk calcium overload in adults. Protein digestibility is moderate, limiting support for very rapid growth.

=== Red Clover Hay ===
* Protein: ~18.7% DM
* Fiber: ~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa up to 30% without adverse effects on growth or mortality.

=== Oat Forage (Avena sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~9.1% DM
* Fiber: ~34% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===
Includes timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermuda grass.

* Typically high fiber, low protein, vitamins, and minerals compared to legumes.
* Nutritional content varies widely by species and harvest conditions.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===
* Combines benefits of legumes (protein, minerals) and grasses (fiber).
* Balanced mixes (e.g., 1/3 grass to 2/3 legume) optimize nutrition and yield.

=== Bermuda Grass (Cynodon dactylon Pers.) ===
* Protein: ~9.8% DM
* Fiber: ~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~0.8% DM

=Rabbit Snacks and Treats =

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Recipes_to_Make_Treats_For_Rabbits Recipe page:]

= Debunked Studies Whose Information Is Still Used as “Evidence” for House Rabbit Society Propaganda =

=== Preference of rabbits for drinking from open dishes versus nipple drinkers ===
*Tschudin, A; Clauss, M; Codron, D; Hatt, J-M.*
*The Veterinary Record; London Vol. 168, Iss. 7 (Feb 19, 2011): 190*
\[[https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar\&cbl=2041027\&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ](https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2041027&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ)]

This study has been widely discredited and subsequently removed from platforms like ResearchGate and PubMed. The primary reason is the extremely small sample size: only **12 dwarf rabbits total**, which is insufficient to draw any meaningful, statistically valid conclusions. Despite this, the study’s findings are still sometimes cited as if they were definitive proof of rabbits’ drinking preferences, which is misleading.
---

=== Questionable Sources on House Rabbit Society (HRS) Care Pages ===

The House Rabbit Society care pages cite **three main sources** at the bottom of their nutrition and care articles. However, none of these sources provide peer-reviewed research or studies specifically supporting their claims. Instead, the citations lean heavily on credentials or opinion pieces with no empirical backing:

* Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison
* Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health
* Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

---

=== Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D. — University of Wisconsin-Madison ===
\[[https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan\_Smith\_CV.pdf](https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan_Smith_CV.pdf) CV]

Dr. Smith served on the House Rabbit Society’s National Board of Directors from 2002 to 2010 and has presented at their conferences and written lay opinion articles. Yet, she has no published research on rabbits and no peer-reviewed work on rabbit nutrition or health. Her rabbit involvement appears limited solely to her HRS board role. However:

* She has **no published research studies involving rabbits**.
* No peer-reviewed papers on rabbit nutrition or health.
* Her rabbit-related involvement appears to be exclusively as part of the HRS board.

This fact underscores the HRS’s own stance: they are primarily an activist organization, not a science-based authority. By using Dr. Smith’s academic title to back their advice without supporting research, HRS highlights their reliance on advocacy over rigorous scientific evidence.

---

=== Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA — Oxbow Animal Health ===

Dr. Kohles co-authored a study titled:
*“The Effect of Feed Form on Diet Digestibility and Cecal Parameters in Rabbits”* (December 2017)
[[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593\_The\_Effect\_of\_Feed\_Form\_on\_Diet\_Digestibility\_and\_Cecal\_Parameters\_in\_Rabbits](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593_The_Effect_of_Feed_Form_on_Diet_Digestibility_and_Cecal_Parameters_in_Rabbits)]

Key issues with this study:

* Sample size of **only 15 New Zealand rabbits**, divided into three groups of five.
* Experimental period followed a 45-day acclimation plus 30-day feeding trial.
* The study compared pelleted, extruded, and muesli diets (pelleted diet at only 14% protein).
* Findings were inconsistent depending on the digestibility estimation method used.
* Authors concluded diet composition mattered more than form, but results were inconclusive.

Despite this, Oxbow Animal Health, where Dr. Kohles works as VP of Technical Services and Research, is cited by the HRS as a major authority on rabbit nutrition. However, this study’s limited scope and contradictory results do not strongly support sweeping dietary recommendations.

---

=== Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal) ===

Dr. Fisher has authored a few opinion-based articles related to rabbit gastrointestinal disease, but these do **not** provide scientific data supporting nutritional claims cited by the House Rabbit Society. Examples include:

* [Gastrointestinal disease in ferrets and rabbits (Proceedings)](https://www.dvm360.com/view/gastrointestinal-disease-ferrets-and-rabbits-proceedings)
Focuses on gastrointestinal diseases and parasites causing bloat, but contains no diet-related research.

In his *Rabbit Medicine Overview* proceedings, Dr. Fisher briefly addresses rabbit nutrition with advice that reads more like a product promotion than a rigorous scientific review. The section:

* Lacks any supporting research citations, unlike other well-referenced sections of the paper.
* Provides general recommendations consistent with standard rabbit dietary advice but without backing data or critical analysis.

Key points from Fisher’s nutrition section:

* Emphasizes the importance of a diet high in fiber (20-25%) with low starch and balanced protein levels to maintain gastrointestinal health.
* Recommends a maintenance feeding guideline of roughly **1 ounce of high-fiber pellets per kilogram of body weight**, plus **ad libitum access to grass hays** such as timothy, oat, orchard grass, or meadow hay.
* Suggests pellets should be over 20% fiber and below 16% protein—specifications that conveniently match the nutrient profile of Oxbow’s own pellet products.
* Advocates feeding fresh leafy greens as enrichment and as a tool to monitor appetite in rabbits suspected of gastrointestinal stasis.
* Specifically promotes *Oxbow Critical Care for Herbivores* as an excellent syringe-fed nutritional support for anorexic rabbits.

**Critique:**

* The absence of any cited research undermines the credibility of these recommendations, making them appear anecdotal or opinion-based rather than evidence-driven.
* The nutrition advice aligns closely with Oxbow’s product line, raising conflict-of-interest concerns.
* No discussion is offered on alternative feeding strategies, potential risks of exclusive pellet feeding, or critical evaluation of fiber sources and digestibility.
* This section does not address recent research on rabbit nutrition that highlights risks of low-fiber diets or “salad-only” feeding regimes, nor does it reconcile the complexity of fiber types and particle size in rabbit gut health.

In summary, while the nutrition overview provides a superficially reasonable framework for rabbit diets, it falls short of scientific rigor and transparency. Its implicit promotion of Oxbow products further questions the independence of the advice offered.

* [Thinking of adding exotic mammals to your case load? (Proceedings)](https://www.dvm360.com/view/thinking-adding-exotic-mammals-your-case-load-equipment-needs-proceedings)
Reads like a marketing pitch for Oxbow Animal Health products rather than independent scientific guidance. The article by Dr. Peter G. Fisher does not provide detailed original research or deep nutritional information on rabbits either.

===Here’s what it does regarding nutrition ===

*Mentions inappropriate feeding practices as a common problem in exotic mammals, including rabbits.

*Advises vets to have exotic mammal diets on hand (naming commercial brands like Oxbow, Zupreem, Mazuri) to help clients start dietary changes.

*Suggests keeping fresh leafy greens available as examples and for appetite testing.

*Recommends Oxbow Critical Care for nutritional support of anorexic rabbits.

*Emphasizes the importance of client education on nutrition but doesn’t cite specific studies or give detailed feeding guidelines.

In other words, the nutrition coverage is very general, clinical, and product-oriented, mostly about what vets should stock or recommend, rather than presenting any primary research or independent nutritional analysis.

This article is more about veterinary practice setup, equipment, diagnostics, and handling exotic mammals, with a small section acknowledging diet importance but no rigorous evidence or data. It reads like a practical veterinary guide with vendor references, not a scientific nutrition paper.

---

### Summary of Issues with HRS Nutrition Sources:

* No peer-reviewed studies are cited in their nutrition advice.
* Two of the cited veterinarians (Fisher and Kohles) have only authored opinion pieces or small-sample studies that do not substantiate the claims made.
* Dr. Susan Smith lacks any published rabbit research.
* Some referenced studies by these vets actually support the use of complete, balanced pellets over “salads” or low-fiber, high-fermentable-carb diets—which the HRS article fails to emphasize or mention.
* The overall impression is that the House Rabbit Society’s nutritional guidance is **not based on rigorous science** but on opinion and marketing interests.

---

### Additional Reference on Feed Components:

Nutritive value of pine sawdust (used sometimes as bedding or feed additive):

* Crude Protein (CP): 1.8 to 3.5 g/100g
* Crude Fiber (CF): 39.5 to 74.0 g/100g

For comparison, Timothy hay typically contains:

* CP: \~3 g/100g
* CF: \~28 g/100g

[[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834\_NUTRITIVE\_VALUE\_OF\_SAWDUST](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834_NUTRITIVE_VALUE_OF_SAWDUST)]

=Feed Related Studies=

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Researchlinks#REFLECTIONS_ON_RABBIT_NUTRITION_WITH_A_SPECIAL_EMPHASIS_ON_FEED_INGREDIENTS_UTILIZATION Research Links ]

[https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding Rabbit Tracks: Feeds and Feeding April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension] 
Received: 23 May 2021 / Revised: 12 July 2021 / Accepted: 12 July 2021 / Published: 14 July 2021

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health] 
August 2013

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Effects of Rocket Seed Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, and Their Mixture on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Digestibility, Redox Status, and Meat Fatty Acid Profile of Growing Rabbits] 
April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION RECENT RESEARCH ADVANCES IN RABBIT NUTRITION] 
December 2000

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization Reflections on rabbit nutrition with a special emphasis on feed ingredients utilization] 
January 2004

==Feed related==

Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition
[https://www.academia.edu/8592261/Nutrition_of_the_Rabbit_Second_Edition?email_work_card=title Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition]
Mohammad Rifky

rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding

Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health==
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health

https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION

https://www.vetfolio.com/learn/article/nutrition-know-how-pet-rabbit-nutrition

General Feed Supplements

EFFECT OF DIETARY SELENIUM ENRICHED MICRO-ALGAE SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANTI- OXIDATIVE STATUS OF RABBITS UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IN SUMMER SEASON" by mohamed basyony===
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Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Rk9LdEk3cUt6aDQwdEUvK0dPaHhvUkRVRk5iUzdlV05WelVvS3prZkJGdz0tLWZZRFZWUGN3N2ZNTTBFOU4zRElqQ0E9PQ==--bd7de4edfce98920e93a0b1c5d01a3591f51cc78/t/sPPdN-Qdcm7Pe-p67QM/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Effect of Zinc Supplementation on some Physiological and Growth Traits in Local Male Rabbit" by World's Veterinary Journal Editor===
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Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 1. Response of Growing Rabbits to DietsHamed A.A. Omer, AbdEl-Maged A. Abedo, Sawsan M. Ahmed, Azza M.M. Badrand Mervat S.M. HasaninLife Science..." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEd0VnRmek51ZDdkNlJBSVhaUlBmV1F1ekFPRUdKTUR3RjczdnVCVSs3MD0tLW1WVGgvc3M2aTdFUURKV2MwOXAwQ3c9PQ==--8aaaec6b132b8e0db8dc46fab39fe4e45b811b1b/t/sPPdN-Qgz1jJD-HxeW0/resource/work/8539516/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_1_Response_of_Growing_Rabbits_to_DietsHamed_A_A_Omer_AbdEl_Maged_A_Abedo_Sawsan_M_Ahmed_Azza_M_M_Badrand_Mervat_S_M_HasaninLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_4_?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 2. Influence of Flaxseeds Levels Supplementations on Blood Constituents, Carcass Characteristics and Fatty Acids Profile." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UThubG0wTEgrc1BKeEFnT3pycEF1OUxwVHZ6S1RGcVd1SkErVThPQnZqMD0tLXV5ZW5LVitIT0NhdDYvZnFuVWJlRlE9PQ==--4d0a1cc52d355dfd197363aa7fa6dc86b45cdf4a/t/sPPdN-QgG9ADH-bbjVAv/resource/work/12250987/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_2_Influence_of_Flaxseeds_Levels_Supplementations_on_Blood_Constituents_Carcass_Characteristics_and_Fatty_Acids_Profile?email_work_card=title

Agronomy: "Growth Performance and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients of Weaned Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Forms of Cocoa Pod Husk Meal" by Asian Online Journal Publishing Group===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L3IzQTZDNUVZWUF2NEwvZDV1Wkp0ZU52TU1meHJIY1dXYkt3UXU4T3E5UT0tLUl3SW9lQ0RZU3NhMjAwNjhIWWY3Y3c9PQ==--a3f206fa63664368e8bfde6eebd8f9470a3bdb2a/t/sPPdN-QpF3kHw-bqigTi/resource/work/35848207/Growth_Performance_and_Apparent_Nutrient_Digestibility_Coefficients_of_Weaned_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Forms_of_Cocoa_Pod_Husk_Meal?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF CHAMOMILE FLOWERS AS FEED ADDITIVE ON SOME BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS FOR GROWING RABBITS" by Ibrahim abaza===
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The Nutritive Value of Zornia glochidiata as a Non-conventional Feedstuff in Rabbit in Sokoto, Nigeria" by Ndudim Ogo===
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Performance of rabbits fed diets with varying concentrate and fodder ratio in north eastern region of Tripura" by Asit Chakrabarti===
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Various Legume as feed and feed supplements

Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits" by Donald Chisowa===
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Hamed A.A Omerand Azza M.M. Badr.Growth Performance of New Zealand White Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Pea StrawLife Science Journal 2013;10(2)" by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/U2pZNE5LYmdLY2NleXppeDhCb2owd2YxZ0FDNWJub2IzNmNsM0ZCNlpIQT0tLU51UHBhN3JGQ0ZmOWJYclJTdWRKNkE9PQ==--429eb979b597c8159c3230f2bb5e087f0b6765ca/t/sPPdN-QcSQb5L-bxcsdM/resource/work/8539260/Hamed_A_A_Omerand_Azza_M_M_Badr_Growth_Performance_of_New_Zealand_White_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Levels_of_Pea_StrawLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_2_?email_work_card=title

Effect of Chemical Composition of Alfalfa Hay on Several . Digestive Measurements in Growing Rabbits" by Rosa Carabaño===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/VldVYTkrN3FQVmVjZzBlT0tPSXFNN3lJWks5a0JDbSs2Nm0vWk5yNTAvZz0tLThQaE85MTc3Vlo2YmdwVSsrTFpJdWc9PQ==--90cc8df7accb7e7757b217e27490b7698e7cf5a0/t/sPPdN-Qa9cnMB-B2d8N/resource/work/24812249/Effect_of_Chemical_Composition_of_Alfalfa_Hay_on_Several_Digestive_Measurements_in_Growing_Rabbits?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF FEEDING OLIVE CAKE SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT BENTONITE ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aGhEa0Y3MXpTUm9QK0g4NS8rbGVZTmwyL3Q2Wmd1bFh0VzhhYTFkR1lGTT0tLWdvNlFRT0hhcEowVy9ESGpQTFplTHc9PQ==--e954ae63b78666fe8b6026136d1caa841a3244e7/t/sPPdN-QaECJQk-baz1zi/resource/work/36496594/EFFECT_OF_FEEDING_OLIVE_CAKE_SUPPLEMENTED_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_BENTONITE_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BLOOD COMPONENTS AND SLAUGHTER TRAITS OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE MALE GROWING RABBITS AS AFFECTED BY DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH CALCIUM, SODIUM OR POTASSIUM, IN SUB-TROPICAL EGYPT" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat== https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SU9MMGRUSEhLWGlNT20zaXdkTXEyUjJYYWlFaDI2RHRqNnZtYXF1Z1d6WT0tLUphSHIxRlRRbUZQQituR25Gc0dkK2c9PQ==--841cf9236890a2487e4a977273720546ef9a32dc/t/sPPdN-QaqqFUB-nAEXb/resource/work/12692254/GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_BLOOD_COMPONENTS_AND_SLAUGHTER_TRAITS_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_MALE_GROWING_RABBITS_AS_AFFECTED_BY_DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTATION_WITH_CALCIUM_SODIUM_OR_POTASSIUM_IN_SUB_TROPICAL_EGYPT?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/NHFKYlphcXg4VWNzZGVkSDVmVVFXYXlqOCtHSEVrd3RLN0NQN2xDZFZwYz0tLVVFcFpIZE9zV3pEWWRkU1Z5N09JcUE9PQ==--b6e433ce56d2392549ee5b405d73fa8c16e303ff/t/sPPdN-QaifWu2-bfmPBZ/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Influence of dietary benzoic acid addition on nutrient digestibility and selected biochemical parameters in fattening rabbits" by K. Fegeros==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/b2lheWJTUWNnUEVBTG5Ddm1YamhzSDQySGNZd0k1TVV1aE1ldmFVR1RGVT0tLUNLSk5MYmlvYW1kN29STUUzSCtPelE9PQ==--917462902d2600191af2d70536465a40bd316be4/t/sPPdN-QepHj7D-VtVZd/resource/work/30474431/Influence_of_dietary_benzoic_acid_addition_on_nutrient_digestibility_and_selected_biochemical_parameters_in_fattening_rabbits?email_work_card=title

COMMERCIAL ENZYMES

EFFECT OF USING COMMERCIAL ENZYMES TO IMPROVE DIETS CONTAINED PEANUT HAY ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by Fathy Atta===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OUJlVHFVTHozWlFQYW9idGdPUmJSUHJFZElZdGRXR3Fpc04rZU41N1IrZz0tLXlWY2FhdldaTll1Y1AwbEpxczAxbXc9PQ==--e16599d129e829b7da7a4ca4d6c379ce72e7532b/t/sPPdN-QeUbKK9-bxtmgk/resource/work/7230460/EFFECT_OF_USING_COMMERCIAL_ENZYMES_TO_IMPROVE_DIETS_CONTAINED_PEANUT_HAY_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

RESPONSE OF GROWING RABBITS TO DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF WHEAT SCREENING BY-PRODUCT WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION " by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bGpGeEkrdzZ3NE5PU2hKYUNZdmRQN1JMYjdqMU51RGc0clRmTStHTVhwbz0tLTF5bnhHY0V1TUxLNnZrR1N1WmdmVVE9PQ==--e42c63ee99bdc464d47fa63c8decab24ae97b4fb/t/sPPdN-Qc5erQc-bhct0a/resource/work/5108323/RESPONSE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_TO_DIETS_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_WHEAT_SCREENING_BY_PRODUCT_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_ENZYME_SUPPLEMENTATION?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF DIETARY CORN COBS AND ENZYMES SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWING RABBITS PERFORMANCE===
https://www.academia.edu/8019560/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_CORN_COBS_AND_ENZYMES_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWING_RABBITS_PERFORMANCE?email_work_card=title
Ibrahim abaza

EFFECT OF ENZYMES AND PROBIOTIC MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION TO THE DIET OF GROWING FEMALE RABBITS ON PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CRITERIA" by Mohamed El-Sagheer===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bFNjQ1hweHdXMU5jZStuaTVwR0FNMEl2S2FHYzNLa2twOExReE9oeU9OVT0tLUQ5RXdoNElpYzlpUGJCK0hmMnhseVE9PQ==--05cb9b9a585550db2c1c6d59abe3c29322dc3ee1/t/sPPdN-QaMLryt-K4jEZ/resource/work/11938475/EFFECT_OF_ENZYMES_AND_PROBIOTIC_MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION_TO_THE_DIET_OF_GROWING_FEMALE_RABBITS_ON_PERFORMANCE_AND_CARCASS_CRITERIA?email_work_card=title

REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION
[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION]
" REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION LEBAS F. Cuniculture, 87a Chemin de Lassère, 31450 Corronsac, France lebas@cuniculture.info ABSTRACT In this invited communication the author proposes a list of nutritional recommendations for rabbits of different categories: growing from 18 to 42 days, from 42 to 80 days, for breeding does according to productivity (40-50 kits weaned per doe/year or more than 50) and for a single diet suitable for all rabbits. Recommendations taking account the last published data, are divided in 2 groups. The first corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to feed efficiency: digestible energy, crude and digestible protein, amino acids, minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins. The second group corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to nutritive security and digestive health: different fibre components (lignins, cellulose, hemicelluloses) and their equilibrium, starch and water soluble vitamins. In a second part, 387 papers published during the last 30 years on raw material utilisation in rabbit feeding were analysed. In a total of 14 tables, the 542 corresponding experiments were summarised each by the identification of the raw material, by the highest level of incorporation used in the experiment, by the highest acceptable level, by the main ingredient(s) replaced by the raw material studied, and finally by the authors reference. Raw materials studied were those used in temperate as well as in tropical countries. The raw material were grouped according to the following categories : raw material used as single food (24 experiments), cereals and by-products (43 exp.), other carbohydrates source of energy (62 exp.), fats (27 exp.), full-fat oleaginous grains (10 exp.), oil cakes and meals (43 exp.), proteic seeds such peas or beans (42 exp.), miscellaneous sources of protein such yeast or leaf protein (18 exp.), animal products (21 exp.), non-protein nitrogen source such urea (9 exp.), forages (157 exp.), cereal straws, alkali treated or not (33 exp.), cover or parts of dried grains source of fibre such stalks, hulls or cobs (19 exp.) and industrial by-products usable as fibre source (51 exp.). Key words: nutritional recommendations, raw materials, data basis"

Effect of energy restriction in interaction with genotype on the performance of growing rabbits: II. Carcass traits and meat quality" by Z. Szendrő==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/ZTN1b3FROWR1aUZhWGM1Q0FJRk1XcWpSajlIRDdGUlZUakRXc21FRmxjaz0tLVNIdE1PS3ZtdnZuR1hWWm82UDg3U3c9PQ==--669990dfc647432f898e381ed8b9b41de23c78aa/t/sPPdN-QmqdKDg-bmjCCY/resource/work/13592540/Effect_of_energy_restriction_in_interaction_with_genotype_on_the_performance_of_growing_rabbits_II_Carcass_traits_and_meat_quality?email_work_card=title

Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by hadil samy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bDBFWG8wcXl1MlBnSjlyenBnUkhKL2FZTmVnYmtyVW9vbThrWGNwaERMOD0tLXY4WWFsRlpHU0FKWVRTRTlLTmRCRnc9PQ==--6433eef0d04443b5c7e946a1c73ae59282239da3/t/sPPdN-Qmh7hzB-insEp/resource/work/27823893/Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

DOI: Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by Fathy Abdel-Fattah==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L2g5dmN3WEx4d01hb3JHanJkL1pUQXhZSXBMd3JwczQyVGlGeUhaakFxcz0tLUFPYUloZy9HZnAzMU1wMklmcDUxcEE9PQ==--cf05b9d08abd2994dce26ca3b775a8a327b9c34f/t/sPPdN-QqEo2CE-fAfA5/resource/work/38091315/DOI_Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

INCLUSION OF DRIED AGRO-INDUSTRIAL STRAWBERRY BY- PRODUCTS IN GROWING RABBIT DIETS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/N0V6STlENndzVWprbmthVTJGZEtGcUVha0RzZ2dCWm5sVFZXSFI5VFRPOD0tLWMxRjUyRHpHZ2pyU0l3SGkyR2JXVGc9PQ==--bdf935bf33d5e21673da61a284addd06919e86b9/t/sPPdN-QhFdf7T-VUozM/resource/work/36496618/INCLUSION_OF_DRIED_AGRO_INDUSTRIAL_STRAWBERRY_BY_PRODUCTS_IN_GROWING_RABBIT_DIETS?email_work_card=title

Rabbit’s performance, health and meat quality improvement by phyto-additives" by Attawit Kovitvadhi==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bi8vWGZUcnVHM00zaDJSRklnOWVsV1VtMjlFQjFnQVNDN3VOUXJEQ3Z4Yz0tLXI0MndMN2J3UE8xZkNMbG5yV21YMmc9PQ==--c03893c550d192819f3dde5b88cb43c0251cfc1e/t/sPPdN-QqNsCkH-0zMCL/resource/work/19803703/Rabbit_s_performance_health_and_meat_quality_improvement_by_phyto_additives?email_work_card=title

PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIET CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TOMATO POMACE" by Mahmoud Elazab==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/eDNRMFl1YXdrb2ZTMGdxUkJTYkRTWDNzYkJoVHRVN2locDY1c3FjT3ZCcz0tLTB0R3RFeXZLNGduVlQvN2VQQ1ZaL3c9PQ==--b8af070801c6d13d7041b1060baf6b0b2f86db3f/t/sPPdN-QhbGBew-kbnLX/resource/work/35484427/PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_FED_DIET_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_TOMATO_POMACE?email_work_card=title

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/dVhDUDgwSXFFTHo0UVBldFNXOHFQVkhsbFZnVEphQm50U1FtK1BNc2JIRT0tLXZOQUhpcFFDZ2czSndMaXZDNGVWTVE9PQ==--3f889f2926497df89c9685f9795796f88b4c76c3/t/sPPdN-Qg4y1P2-UzbBy/resource/work/21181061/Growth_performance_carcass_quality_biochemical_and_haematological_traits_and_immune_response_of_growing_rabbits_as_affected_by_different_growth_promoters?email_work_card=title
Growth performance, carcass quality, biochemical and haematological traits and immune response of growing rabbits as affected by different growth promoters" by Youssef Attia]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/d1NVejZIa0VOYm5mUit1dG9xTVdkZ1VHOTB0QUM4aGhHS2xaTVQvcklSTT0tLS9zbXdWNDdBcXBnZFhySTA2Slhxdnc9PQ==--5649e5cdede150483096497d7b424e160c3a414a/t/sPPdN-QdV9eNq-9MtFF/resource/work/36496604/EVALUATION_OF_EGYPTIAN_TREE_WILLOW_Salix_safsafs_LEAVES_AND_ITS_FEEDING_AFFECT_ON_PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_RABBITS?email_work_card=title EVALUATION OF EGYPTIAN TREE WILLOW (Salix safsafs) LEAVES AND ITS FEEDING AFFECT ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBITS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEhlWjJsMlJyc3JCNDNVUlJUK05CaHR2V1NoYWMwVStxTlIrUWloZjEvbz0tLVZEdkJxZVYrc00zYm5aWE5kT0NTTEE9PQ==--b040db53fb351cf834d73ebd3dada957c02e4c95/t/sPPdN-Qfu5LUn-617sS/resource/work/36496613/UTILIZATION_OF_Ziziphus_spina_christi_LEAVES_AS_A_NATURAL_GROWTH_PROMOTER_IN_RABBITS_RATIONS?email_work_card=title UTILIZATION OF Ziziphus spina-christi LEAVES AS A NATURAL GROWTH PROMOTER IN RABBIT'S RATIONS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MzFNWE5hWklnWXhlcStJNExWNjBvcEhudjN1dTZNaVVjdzlnZGpyNVZnMD0tLU4veFVJRldVSElzRy9oN0k2U0tWa1E9PQ==--7562f212c75e4f5a0c8e066594e00fd0239031f2/t/sPPdN-QdyLbjc-qbmgV/resource/work/31846675/Effect_of_replacement_of_berseem_Trifolium_alexandrinum_L_hay_by_berseem_silage_on_performance_of_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title Effect of replacement of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) hay by berseem silage on performance of growing rabbits" by Hamed Gaafar]

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Oil added to feed]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YmlrSzU4SGRBZUJCbGViT0xjNDBZMk0vUGpVTzlFZnlWNjBtbFNSSGVMUT0tLWFlWGtLQVQycjFDSlU3ZmhTcURHdnc9PQ==--b809c3d7d0c75ba0dc95475b2ed5ba659e21e9b8/t/sPPdN-Qe1mzqP-AJQtS/resource/work/12250896/Improving_the_Utilization_of_Rabbit_Diets_Containing_Vegetable_Oil_by_Using_Fennel_Foeniculum_vulgare_And_Oregano_Origanum_vulgare_L_as_Feed_Additives?email_work_card=title Improving the Utilization of Rabbit Diets Containing Vegetable Oil by Using Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) And Oregano (Origanum vulgare L) as Feed Additives" by dr.azza badr]

Study of the effect of grape seed extract as a natural antioxidant on the performance of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits during summer season in Egypt Fawzia A. Hassan1; Khalid M. Mahrose2 and Mohamed Basyony3" by mohamed basyony
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Z0t1TlpMWlo4TjlkRmtURzkxY01MeWZMcEd2SmczNURyUE1GNm10Sy9jaz0tLWNBZ3pLMVZ6RDJ6dnJzeEhsRitsaGc9PQ==--3ea66988e3650ec90c1f8439baede86ffca6bf57/t/sPPdN-QdrCvu9-byFUwt/resource/work/21659194/Study_of_the_effect_of_grape_seed_extract_as_a_natural_antioxidant_on_the_performance_of_New_Zealand_White_NZW_rabbits_during_summer_season_in_Egypt_Fawzia_A_Hassan1_Khalid_M_Mahrose2_and_Mohamed_Basyony3?email_work_card=title

==notes to be incorporated ==

Researchlinks

2025-11-06T00:52:58Z

BCAdmin: /* bulk dump */

Drop links here with brief description.

https://www.facebook.com/RabbitResearch?mibextid=ZbWKwL

This list is an unfiltered list of Rabbit related articles. It includes, all types: piolet studies, peer reviewed studies, journal papers, debunked studies, & current studies, for the purpose of cross referencing.

=Rabbit Rearing Breeding=

https://onlinebooks.library.upenn.edu/webbin/book/browse?type=lcsubc&key=Rabbits%20%2D%2D%20Statistics&c=x

==Reproductive Organs and hormones==

===2023 Pregnancy Complications and Feto-Maternal Monitoring in Rabbits===
Patrícia Pinto-Pinho 1,2,3,*, Maria de Lurdes Pinto 4, José Monteiro 5, Margarida Fardilha 2, Rosário Pinto-Leite 3, Bruno Colaço 1,4
Author information
Article notes
Copyright and License information
PMCID: PMC10610772 PMID: 37888574
Vet Sci. 2023 Oct 17;10(10):622. doi: 10.3390/vetsci10100622
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10610772/

=== 2022 Anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations in female rabbits and its relation to spay status, pseudopregnancy and ovarian follicle numbers===
Böhmer F, Erber K, Ewringmann A, Klein R, Reese S, Böhmer C, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Walter B.
Reprod Domest Anim. 2022 Sep 2. doi: 10.1111/rda.14240. Online ahead of print.
PMID: 36052807
PMID: 36052807 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14240
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36052807/

=== 2018 Rabbit sperm (Blog) Not Easter bunnies or hares, but rabbit reproduction and sperm : Prof Gerhard van der Horst (PhD, PhD) ===
Prof Gerhard van der Horst (PhD, PhD)
Senior Consultant
MICROPTIC S.L.
https://www.micropticsl.com/rabbit-blog/

===Neutering of pet rabbits. Whitehead, M. L. (2017)===
Veterinary Record, 180(8), 204.1–205. doi:10.1136/vr.j826 .
https://sci-hub.se/10.1136/vr.j826

===Response to Neutering of pet rabbits. Frances Harcourt-Brown(2017)===
Veterinary Record, 180(15), 385–386. doi:10.1136/vr.j1812

===2003 New perspectives in rearing systems for rabbit does" by L. Maertens===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cXB4T0V3WGRoN25VRlhPRGZBWHdZY05NNGlWMUxVWDZHSGRiWjBWTEhLQT0tLWV2MERGdUNIams2SUtINEtCaW9Nenc9PQ==--655158b38adde0b05bd4b67e88c8cc60718f28c4/t/sPPdN-QrcBT6s-sfvjo/resource/work/27578695/New_perspectives_in_rearing_systems_for_rabbit_does?email_work_card=title

===2016 Causes of mortality in breeding rabbits===
Author links open overlay panel
J.M. Rosell a , L.F. de la Fuente b https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S016758771630099X?via%3Dihub

==Skull Shape, Maloculsion. Dentition==
=== 2020 Skull Shape Diversity in Pet Rabbits and the Applicability of Anatomical Reference Lines for Objective Interpretation of Dental Disease===
Christine Böhmer 1, Estella Böhmer 2
Vet Sci . 2020 Nov 20;7(4):182. doi: 10.3390/vetsci7040182.
PMID: 33233758 PMCID: PMC7711434 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7040182
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33233758/

<blockquote>Abstract
Acquired dental problems are among the most frequently encountered diseases in pet rabbits. However, early symptoms are often overlooked because the affected animals first appear completely asymptomatic. Alterations from anatomical reference lines according to Böhmer and Crossley applied to standard skull X-ray images, have been shown to be indicative of tooth health problems in pet rabbits. Despite its proven usefulness, there are exceptions in which the anatomical reference lines appear not to be suitable for application. We addressed this issue by quantifying the cranial morphology of a large data set of pet rabbit patients (N = 80). The results of the morphometric analyses revealed considerable diversity in skull shape among the typical pet rabbits, but variance in only a few parameters influences the applicability of the anatomical reference lines. The most substantial parameter is the palatal angle. Specimens in which the anatomical reference lines could not be applied, have a rather large angle between the skull base and the palatal bone. We recommend to measure the palatal angle before applying the anatomical reference lines for objective interpretation of dental disease. Pet rabbits with a palatal angle larger than 18.8° are not strictly suitable for the successful application of the anatomical reference lines.

Keywords: Lagomorpha; evolution; geometric morphometrics; malocclusion; masticatory apparatus; pathology; teeth.</blockquote>

Notes:
<blockquote>Conclusions
The present study showed that there is considerable diversity in skull shape among the typical pet rabbit (of no specific breed). The domestication of rabbits—most likely with a single origin from wild populations of France [56,57,58]—has led to a very high phenotypic diversity with more than 200 breeds recognized worldwide [57]. The morphological variation is reflected in a wide variety of commercial and laboratory uses. Nevertheless, the applicability of the occlusal reference line is not significantly influenced by variance in parameters such as the length of the maxillary molar row or of the palatal bone. It is slightly affected by the caudal height of the nasal bone and the cranial length to height ratio. In pet rabbits with a rather high caudal nose and a short skull in relation to their skull height, the occlusal reference line is not always applicable. However, these parameters explain only partially why in some cases the occlusal reference line cannot be applied. The most substantial parameter that allows to predict if the occlusal reference line is applicable or not is the palatal angle. If the angle between the skull base and the palatal bone is larger than 18.8°, the occlusal plane of the molars is shifted outside the occlusal reference line. In these cases, they are not suitable for successful objective interpretation of norm- and malocclusion.</blockquote>

=== 2018 Developmental pathways of periodontal tissue regeneration: Developmental diversities of tooth morphogenesis do also map capacity of periodontal tissue regeneration?===
Ugo Ripamonti 1
J Periodontal Res. 2019 Feb;54(1):10-26. doi: 10.1111/jre.12596. Epub 2018 Sep 12.
PMID: 30207395 DOI: 10.1111/jre.12596

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30207395/

===2017 Shape Variation in the Craniomandibular System and Prevalence of Dental Problems in Domestic Rabbits: A Case Study in Evolutionary Veterinary Science ===
Vet Sci. 2017 Mar; 4(1): 5. Published online 2017 Jan 24. doi: 10.3390/vetsci4010005
PMCID: PMC5606619 PMID: 29056664 Christine Böhmer1,* and Estella Böhmer2
Patrick Butaye, Academic Editor
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/

<blockquote>Abstract:
In contrast to wild lagomorphs, pet rabbits exhibit a noticeably high frequency of dental problems. Although dietary habits are considered as a major factor contributing to acquired malocclusions, the exact causes and interrelationships are still under debate. In this regard, an important aspect that has not been considered thoroughly to date is the effect of diet-induced phenotypic plasticity in skull morphology. Therefore, we conducted a geometric morphometric analysis on skull radiological images of wild and pet rabbits in order to quantify intraspecific variation in craniomandibular morphology. The statistical analyses reveal a significant morphological differentiation of the craniomandibular system between both groups. Furthermore, the analysis of covariance shows that the force-generating modules (cranium and mandible) vary independently from the force-receiving module (hypselodont teeth) in pet rabbits, which is in contrast to their wild relatives. Our findings suggest that the phenotypic changes in domestic rabbits impact mastication performance and, consequently, oral health. An adequate close-to-nature nutrition throughout the whole life and especially beginning early parallel to weaning (phase of increased phenotypic plasticity) is necessary to ensure a normal strain on the teeth by promoting physiological lateral gliding movements and avoiding direct axial loads.

Keywords: masticatory apparatus, axial load, malocclusion, reference lines, Lagomorpha, evolutionary morphology, phenotypic plasticity</blockquote>

notes:

<blockquote>"Free living rabbits also strip bark off trees with their incisors and chew it just as they nibble at delicate roots. In addition to that, animals with a healthy dentition grind their incisors and cheek teeth periodically which is called “thegosis” or “bruxism”. These planning jaw movements occur in the absence of food and help to maintain a physiological length and shape of the teeth. Thegosis is seen predominantly when rabbits are at rest [62]. Rabbits with a malocclusion, however, often avoid these special jaw movements due to dental pain. Elongated clinical crowns of both the incisors and cheek teeth are a consequence of this."

"In summary, this suggests that in grazing wild rabbits cheek teeth are strained primarily in a laterorostral direction while shear forces on the interlocked enamel crests dominate and there is only a small amount of axial load on the cheek teeth. In this context, it is reasonable that the first mandibular cheek tooth is the largest of the rabbit dentition. Thus, the teeth lying behind it can firmly prop up against this stronger premolar. In contrast to wild animals, most pet and breeding rabbits predominantly crush “unnatural” food between their teeth (pellets, carrots and other root vegetables) which is accompanied with a much higher axial strain on the (pre-)molars and an insufficient tooth wear (higher clinical crowns) combined with a tendency to retrograde tooth elongation [1]. This fact appears also to explain why longitudinal splits of the first mandibular premolar (P3) are so common in pet rabbits. They are assumed to be the consequence of a load-related apical irritation that results in an abnormal tooth tissue formation (hypoplasia). Thus, the altered cement fails to connect both tooth bodies firmly together (bilophodont cheek teeth) resulting in a longitudinally “split” tooth [1].

Considering additionally that hay is more resistant than fresh grasses, it seems logical to develop further the hypothesis that pet and breeding rabbits had to develope stronger jaw muscles and secondarily larger axial bite forces than their wild counterparts to be able to crush their unnatural food more effectively. This might be supported by a shorter skull and more vertically oriented muscle fibers whereas a longer skull with a more anteriorly positioned masseter muscle (as seen in wild rabbits) reduces the vertical bite force due to a greater distribution of bite forces on all cheek teeth. As teeth at the rear of the dentition generally exert higher bite forces than the more rostrally positioned teeth, this might be an explanation for the found tendency of the cheek teeth to shift caudally in the group of the domestic rabbits. Furthermore, the presence of stronger muscles may explain the more salient appearance of the caudoventral part of the masseteric fossa (mandibular angle) in pet rabbits, as in different mammals (re-)modeling of the mandibular cortical bone has proven to be associated with oral processing of tough food (reviewed in [70]). This research has shown that especially a postnatal variation in diet-related jaw-loading patterns had a marked influence on the masticatory bone formation, leading to morphological variations between sister taxa in the long term [70]. With age, however, plasticity decreases. Based on this, rabbit breeders feeding predominantly pellets and hay seem to promote malocclusions in adult rabbits unknowingly as the masticatory apparatus of the weanlings is exposed to unphysiological strains that may result in changes of the skull morphology."

" Hay seems to be the most mechanically challenging food as it is tougher and stiffer than pellets ......... [70]. It requires more chews per gram to be processed which results in longer chewing bouts compared to pellets and carrots. This means that over a longer period of time the teeth are predominantly axially loaded due to the elevated bite force. If we take into consideration that hay with a lot of hard stems has reduced nutritive properties and potential limits on digestibility, then rabbits eating predominantly hay need to consume large quantities to meet basic metabolic and nutritional demands [70]. All of this promotes retrograde tooth elongation and incursion of the apices into the adjacent bone (most common finding in malocclusions) [1]. Furthermore, hay also promotes periodontal diseases (impacted food) and, therefore is not the best nutrition for rabbits [31]. Grasses and other fresh plants, however, are abrasive, but relatively soft and, thus, can be ground down with relatively low axial load of the cheek teeth as the primary strain on the (pre-) molars occurs in a more physiological laterorostral direction with the aid of the shearing power stroke"""</blockquote>

===2016 Evolutionary morphology of the rabbit skull===
Brian Kraatz 1, Emma Sherratt 2
PMID: 27688967 PMCID: PMC5036099 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.2453
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27688967/

===2016 Anatomy, Physiology and Non-dental Disorders of the Mouth of Pet Rabbits===
Thomas M Donnelly 1, David Vella 2
Affiliations expand
PMID: 27497204 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2016.04.004
Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract
. 2016 Sep;19(3):737-56. doi: 10.1016/j.cvex.2016.04.004.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27497204/

=== 2016 Genetic and environmental factors influencing tooth and jaw malformations in rabbits===
A K Korn 1, H R Brandt 1, G Erhardt 1
Affiliations expand
Vet Rec. 2016 Apr 2;178(14):341. doi: 10.1136/vr.103293. Epub 2016 Feb 23.
PMID: 26908159 DOI: 10.1136/vr.103293

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26908159/

=Rabbit Social =

==2020 Rabbit communal housing== ,

https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/71955
Housing and Rabbit Welfare in Breeding Does
Written By Arantxa Villagrá García
Submitted: 07 November 2019 Reviewed: 20 February 2020 Published: 24 June 2020
DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.91829
Abstract
Animal welfare is a rising concern in livestock production and to assess the welfare state of an animal, it is needed to consider health, behaviour and emotions. Housing conditions and management normally impair animal welfare at different levels, so developing housing systems and management practices that imply a high level of animal welfare by preserving productive results is a need. Rabbit cages have to be improved in terms of space, enrichment and materials used to promote better conditions, and several alternatives are under evaluation such as increasing available space, providing animals with elevated platforms and hiding spaces, making available gnawing materials or changing cage materials. Moving from individual to collective housing systems to enhance social interaction is also being tested. Most of these alternatives have provided some steps towards better housing and management conditions for rabbits, while some of them have demonstrated to create more problems and have been abandoned. There is still a long way to go on this research topic.

"Rabbits are social and gregarious animals, and, in wild conditions, they live in groups with more females than bucks (1–4 males and 1–9 females), except around giving birth, when they separate from the rest of the group: the dominant doe uses the common burrow and the rest of the females have to build their nest in different places [7] by mixing their own hair with grass or any other material they can find. The rabbits spend much time resting with conspecifics and in close contact, and fights are produced mainly by hierarchies [8]. However, young rabbits are easily tolerated if the group is not too big [9]."

"As concern to social behaviour, wild rabbits live in groups and hierarchies are clearly established throughout aggressive interactions. According to [13], when kits go outside their mothers’ nest area, they may come into contact with hostile conspecifics, but it is not until sexual maturity when aggressive behaviours become more important [14]. The hierarchic ranch is maintained over time within a stable group."

** note reference table one on the cage sizes used. In relation to the US standard cage sizes for New Zealand commercial rabbits :
the study.

LARGEST CAGES after conversion:
France: Lactating female with litter
Width (cm)40cm (15.748 in)
Length (cm)100cm (39.3701in)
Height (cm)30cm (13.7795in)
Available surface 3600–4000cm2(558.0011-620.0012 in2) US reference by sqfootage 3.875-4.30556 sqft

Italy/Hungary: Lactating female with litter
Width (cm)38cm (14.9606 in)
Length (cm)95cm (37.4016 in)
Height (cm)35cm (13.7795 in)
Available surface 3600cm2( 558.0011in2) US reference by SQ footage 3.875sqft

Spain: Lactating female with litter
Width (cm)40cm (15.748in)
Length (cm)85cm (33.4646 in)
Height (cm)33cm (12.9921 in)
Available surface 3400cm2(527.0011 in2) 3.65972sqft

EFSA recommendations (2005) current: Breeding males and females
Width (cm)38cm (14.9606 in)
Length (cm)65–75cm (25.5906-29.5276in)
Height (cm)38–40cm (14.9606-15.748 in)
Available surface 3600cm2(558.0011 in2)3.875sqft

USA AWA recommendation for new Zealand commercial rabbit Doe and litter, IE: MY cages :

KW cage row#1
Width 60.96cm (24in),
Length 91.44cm(36in),
Height 45.72cm(18in)
Available surface 5574.18cm2 (864insq)6sqft

Custom Cage Row #2
Width 76.2cm (30in),
Length 76.2cm (30in),
Height 45.72cm(cm)(18in)
Available surface 5806.44cm2 (900insq) 6.25sqft

Does shouldn't be housed together.:
"4.2 Collective housing
During the last years, there have been some approaches to develop group housing systems for breeding does. This grouping approach relies on the fact that wild does feed their kits once per day and they spend the rest of the day sharing time with conspecifics, leaving the kits in the nest.

When continuous group housing systems have been evaluated, several problems have been found, leading to unacceptable results in terms of welfare and productivity. Some of these were infertility, pseudopregnancy, high kit mortality and aggression [5], difficult health control, behaviour abnormalities, replacement of the does, higher productive costs [36], shorter lifespan and higher culling rate [5, 8]. Moreover, relationships among does are difficult in the first days after parity, and kit mortality is very high because of competition among does. They compete for the nests, attack the kits and sometimes raising of 2 or 3 does in the same nest box is found [5]. This can be related to the previous explained theory about “the number”, as rabbit does try to guarantee the success of their own litter, even if they have to attack other does’ litters.

So the main reasons for the failure of this housing system are the very high rates of aggression among females and injured does and kits."

== 2018 Changes in brain architecture are consistent with altered fear processing in domestic rabbits==
Irene Brusini, Miguel Carneiro, Chunliang Wang, +11, and Leif Andersson https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4085-6968 leif.andersson@imbim.uu.seAuthors Info & Affiliations
Contributed by Leif Andersson, April 21, 2018 (sent for review January 18, 2018; reviewed by Kenneth Hugdahl, and Marcelo R. Sánchez-Villagra)
June 25, 2018 115 (28) 7380-7385 https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1801024115

DOMESTICATED rabbits lost critical thinking skills. Domestic Rabbits Have Reduced Amygdala Size and Increased Medial Prefrontal Cortex Volume.
https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1801024115

Abstract
The most characteristic feature of domestic animals is their change in behavior associated with selection for tameness. Here we show, using high-resolution brain magnetic resonance imaging in wild and domestic rabbits, that domestication reduced amygdala volume and enlarged medial prefrontal cortex volume, supporting that areas driving fear have lost volume while areas modulating negative affect have gained volume during domestication. In contrast to the localized gray matter alterations, white matter anisotropy was reduced in the corona radiata, corpus callosum, and the subcortical white matter. This suggests a compromised white matter structural integrity in projection and association fibers affecting both afferent and efferent neural flow, consistent with reduced neural processing. We propose that compared with their wild ancestors, domestic rabbits are less fearful and have an attenuated flight response because of these changes in brain architecture.

==2013 Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health==
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health
TY - BOOK
AU - Gidenne, Thierry
AU - Martin, O.
AU - Oswald, Isabelle
AU - Floc'h, N.
AU - Combes, Sylvie
PY - 2013/08/27
SP - 75
T1 - Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health
ER -

==2006 Animal economics: assessing the motivation of female laboratory rabbits to reach a platform, social contact and food==
Author links open overlay panelShirley C.Seaman∗Natalie K.Waran†1GeorgiaMason‡2Richard B.D'Eath§3

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003347207004769?via%3Dihub
https://www.ufaw.org.uk/the-ufaw-3rs-liaison-group-research-studentship/shirley-seaman

""Shirley concluded that laboratory rabbits are motivated to gain visual and minimal tactile contact with conspecifics and that social contact was found to be of equal importance to food. Therefore, where it is not possible to house female rabbits in groups, providing limited social contact is likely to be beneficial. Rabbits were also found to be motivated for a cage platform, although it appeared to be proximity to a bolt-hole that was most important.""

==video wild territorial rabbit interactions==
Graphic... but here it is in action in the wild.... it's a kill kick only... meant to eviscerate or break the neck of an opponent
https://youtu.be/F5xAJViPTXE

=Feed related =

===wirld rabbit science feed calculator ===
http://world-rabbit-science.com/

===2024 merck update ===

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rabbits/nutrition-of-rabbits

=== 2015 The Requirements of Protein and Amino Acids in Rabbit Nutrition and Production ===
The Requirements of Protein and Amino Acids in Rabbit Nutrition and Production
Case Studies Journal ISSN (2305-509X) – Volume 4, Issue 4 – April-2015
4 Pages Posted: 18 Jun 2019
Kemi Eunice Akande Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) - Department of Animal Production
Date Written: April 01, 2015
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3401687

===2015 EFFECT OF COMBINATION OF LEAFY VEGETABLES ON GROWTH PERFORMANCES OF RABBIT ORYCTOLAGUS CUNICULUS ===
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/286509963_EFFECT_OF_COMBINATION_OF_LEAFY_VEGETABLES_ON_GROWTH_PERFORMANCES_OF_RABBIT_ORYCTOLAGUS_CUNICULUS

===2017 Reflections on rabbit diets===
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/314298664_Reflections_on_rabbit_diets

===2017 rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding ( Article)===
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding

===2013 Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health (Study)===
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health

=== 2011 Nutrition Know-How: Pet Rabbit Nutrition (article) ===
Sept 2011
https://www.vetfolio.com/learn/article/nutrition-know-how-pet-rabbit-nutrition
vicky ograin , mba , rvt
Vicky works for Hills, has written one rabbit article, and dosen't specialize in exotics

=== 2010 Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition (Text Book) ===
[https://www.academia.edu/8592261/Nutrition_of_the_Rabbit_Second_Edition?email_work_card=title Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition] <<------ THIS!!!!

=== 2004 REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION===
[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION]

<blockquote> REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION LEBAS F. Cuniculture, 87a Chemin de Lassère, 31450 Corronsac, France lebas@cuniculture.info ABSTRACT In this invited communication the author proposes a list of nutritional recommendations for rabbits of different categories: growing from 18 to 42 days, from 42 to 80 days, for breeding does according to productivity (40-50 kits weaned per doe/year or more than 50) and for a single diet suitable for all rabbits. Recommendations taking account the last published data, are divided in 2 groups. The first corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to feed efficiency: digestible energy, crude and digestible protein, amino acids, minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins. The second group corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to nutritive security and digestive health: different fibre components (lignins, cellulose, hemicelluloses) and their equilibrium, starch and water soluble vitamins. In a second part, 387 papers published during the last 30 years on raw material utilisation in rabbit feeding were analysed. In a total of 14 tables, the 542 corresponding experiments were summarised each by the identification of the raw material, by the highest level of incorporation used in the experiment, by the highest acceptable level, by the main ingredient(s) replaced by the raw material studied, and finally by the authors reference. Raw materials studied were those used in temperate as well as in tropical countries. The raw material were grouped according to the following categories : raw material used as single food (24 experiments), cereals and by-products (43 exp.), other carbohydrates source of energy (62 exp.), fats (27 exp.), full-fat oleaginous grains (10 exp.), oil cakes and meals (43 exp.), proteic seeds such peas or beans (42 exp.), miscellaneous sources of protein such yeast or leaf protein (18 exp.), animal products (21 exp.), non-protein nitrogen source such urea (9 exp.), forages (157 exp.), cereal straws, alkali treated or not (33 exp.), cover or parts of dried grains source of fibre such stalks, hulls or cobs (19 exp.) and industrial by-products usable as fibre source (51 exp.). Key words: nutritional recommendations, raw materials, data basis"</blockquote>

===2000 RECENT RESEARCH ADVANCES IN RABBIT NUTRITION December 2000 (peer reviewed research paper) ===
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION
Francois LEBAS (40+yrs specializing in Rabbit nutrition and research)
485 publications
Assoc. Cuniculture & INRA
French National Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment (INRAE) | INRAE · Tissus Animaux, Nutrition, Digestion, Ecosystème et Métabolisme (TANDEM)
Ingénieur Agronome ENSA Grignon

=== 1991 Anti-nutritional factors, the potential risks of toxicity and methods to alleviate them===
by R. Kumar
INTRODUCTION

The anti-nutritional factors (ANFs) may be defined as those substances generated in natural feed stuffs by the normal metabolism of species and by different mechanisms (e.g., inactivation of some nutrients, diminution of the digestive process or metabolic utilization of feed) which exert effects contrary to optimum nutrition. Being an ANF is not an intrinsic characteristic of a compound but depends upon the digestive process of the ingesting animal. Trypsin inhibitors, which are ANFs for monogastric animals, do not exert adverse effects in ruminants because they are degraded in the rumen (Cheeke and Shull, 1985).

The utility of the leaves, pods and edible twigs of shrubs and trees as animal feed is limited by the presence of ANFs. The raison d'être of ANFs in plants seems to be as a way of storing nutrient or as a means of defending their structure and reproductive elements (Harborne, 1989). In fact, plants contain thousand of compounds which, depending upon the situations, can have beneficial or deleterious effects on organisms consuming them. These compounds, with the exception of nutrients, are referred to as ‘allelochemicals’ (Rosenthal and Janzen, 1979). ANFs may be regarded as a class of these compounds, which are generally not lethal. They diminish animal productivity but may also cause toxicity during periods of scarcity or confinement when the feed rich in these substances is consumed by animals in large quantities.

https://www.fao.org/3/T0632E/T0632E10.htm?fbclid=IwAR2ihLLGXucGo66Ya5hK5TnCuUj9g1snVJjQPV_g4UUmhX1tIQu_IeQ-6bE

https://www.fao.org/3/T0632E/T0632E00.htm#TOC

== General Feed Supplements ==

=== 2025 Bifidobacterium, Spirulina, and Yeast extracts in low-energy diets for rabbits: effects on performance, hematology, lipid metabolism, hepatorenal function, immunity and hormones ===
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40765746/

Mohamed S Shaheen 1, Ahmed A Allam 2, Usama M Abdel Monem 1, Sabry M Bassiony 1, Bakry A Khalil 1, Ayman S Salah 3, Abdullah S Alawam 2, Hassan A Rudayni 2, Ahmed A Elolimy 4, Kasim Sakran Abass 5
Affiliations Expand
PMID: 40765746 PMCID: PMC12322976 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1615203
Front Vet Sci
. 2025 Jul 22:12:1615203. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1615203. eCollection 2025.

Abstract
Introduction: This research assessed the influence of probiotics in low-energy diets on the performance and health status of rabbits during the growing phase. The growth parameters, carcass metrics, serum immunological state, lipid profile, and hepatic and renal functioning of rabbits have been analysed.

=== 2019 Performance of rabbits fed diets with varying concentrate and fodder ratio in north eastern region of Tripura" by Asit Chakrabarti===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MGIycnE2am5lK09CbkEzWnluM1JtaFFjNlk0UVUxSGpQTXNWTE1hS2VYZz0tLWsrdFc5bElVOHcyYmVzWkhrQmRSMVE9PQ==--5b5a30c634eeea396188f5f96e29e2476dd5cdd6/t/sPPdN-QmEt7ei-AvMTB/resource/work/39725417/Performance_of_rabbits_fed_diets_with_varying_concentrate_and_fodder_ratio_in_north_eastern_region_of_Tripura?email_work_card=title

=== 2017 Growth Performance and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients of Weaned Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Forms of Cocoa Pod Husk Meal" by Asian Online Journal Publishing Group===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L3IzQTZDNUVZWUF2NEwvZDV1Wkp0ZU52TU1meHJIY1dXYkt3UXU4T3E5UT0tLUl3SW9lQ0RZU3NhMjAwNjhIWWY3Y3c9PQ==--a3f206fa63664368e8bfde6eebd8f9470a3bdb2a/t/sPPdN-QpF3kHw-bqigTi/resource/work/35848207/Growth_Performance_and_Apparent_Nutrient_Digestibility_Coefficients_of_Weaned_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Forms_of_Cocoa_Pod_Husk_Meal?email_work_card=title

===2016 Effect of Zinc Supplementation on some Physiological and Growth Traits in Local Male Rabbit" by World's Veterinary Journal Editor (2014)===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UzR2b3BhSVl6QjFMeTk5bjR1dXQxYTNhZXBwQUh2UncxdFNBUVVjZkRoMD0tLTIrY1NFWVBnU05mWnNwZlFPUTlrM3c9PQ==--7ad74ccf2d833f46a06ba9dcf8a6f6d63038c707/t/sPPdN-QfnHV4z-kQ1wm/resource/work/32956665/Effect_of_Zinc_Supplementation_on_some_Physiological_and_Growth_Traits_in_Local_Male_Rabbit?email_work_card=title
Mahmood Hassan Mohammed Amen1*and Sarmad Sulaiman Muhammad1,2 1
Sulaimani Polytechnic University, Kalar Technical Institute, Animal Health Department, Nursing Department -Sulaimani- Kalar2 Garmian, Iraq *Corresponding author`s Email: mohmood.ameen@spu.edu.iq

===2015 EFFECT OF DIETARY SELENIUM ENRICHED MICRO-ALGAE SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANTI- OXIDATIVE STATUS OF RABBITS UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IN SUMMER SEASON" by mohamed basyony===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/QllhK1c5L1FDbkFwNEdTNkY4UDI3QnpOTGlCSTRtQ0lNd1V5QTBKVWk2RT0tLXVVQjVtOEVNUm9ZQkIzOEZmY3orSWc9PQ==--c79ce43255800522b842d0c8be4f1a102ba46aaf/t/sPPdN-Qp4b4Q1-bhRvi1/resource/work/21619748/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_SELENIUM_ENRICHED_MICRO_ALGAE_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_AND_ANTI_OXIDATIVE_STATUS_OF_RABBITS_UNDER_HIGH_AMBIENT_TEMPERATURE_IN_SUMMER_SEASON?email_work_card=title

=== 2014 EFFECT OF CHAMOMILE FLOWERS AS FEED ADDITIVE ON SOME BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS FOR GROWING RABBITS" by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YjZsSmVsM3AxM2F4enBmNkU5KzRuTVo2cFJKdUlDY3hVMGJSMDVRS2pwND0tLVN1V3FvTHc5MnI0NXFVbjBuQ1hnYUE9PQ==--3b3eadef9f6ebfe96bfa15eea7a3dfae8e494a31/t/sPPdN-Qpjmi1D-bdz6oo/resource/work/9329672/EFFECT_OF_CHAMOMILE_FLOWERS_AS_FEED_ADDITIVE_ON_SOME_BIOLOGICAL_PARAMETERS_FOR_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

===2013 Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 2. Influence of Flaxseeds Levels Supplementations on Blood Constituents, Carcass Characteristics and Fatty Acids Profile." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UThubG0wTEgrc1BKeEFnT3pycEF1OUxwVHZ6S1RGcVd1SkErVThPQnZqMD0tLXV5ZW5LVitIT0NhdDYvZnFuVWJlRlE9PQ==--4d0a1cc52d355dfd197363aa7fa6dc86b45cdf4a/t/sPPdN-QgG9ADH-bbjVAv/resource/work/12250987/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_2_Influence_of_Flaxseeds_Levels_Supplementations_on_Blood_Constituents_Carcass_Characteristics_and_Fatty_Acids_Profile?email_work_card=title

===2013 Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 1. Response of Growing Rabbits to DietsHamed A.A. Omer, AbdEl-Maged A. Abedo, Sawsan M. Ahmed, Azza M.M. Badrand Mervat S.M. HasaninLife Science..." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEd0VnRmek51ZDdkNlJBSVhaUlBmV1F1ekFPRUdKTUR3RjczdnVCVSs3MD0tLW1WVGgvc3M2aTdFUURKV2MwOXAwQ3c9PQ==--8aaaec6b132b8e0db8dc46fab39fe4e45b811b1b/t/sPPdN-Qgz1jJD-HxeW0/resource/work/8539516/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_1_Response_of_Growing_Rabbits_to_DietsHamed_A_A_Omer_AbdEl_Maged_A_Abedo_Sawsan_M_Ahmed_Azza_M_M_Badrand_Mervat_S_M_HasaninLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_4_?email_work_card=title

=== 2011 The Nutritive Value of Zornia glochidiata as a Non-conventional Feedstuff in Rabbit in Sokoto, Nigeria" by Ndudim Ogo===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aUFMWjBISEJNMHVKZ080NjR5TGErcXpJRzJMelp0U0JtamU4Y2lvRFpJUT0tLVA2dEFmL0hEcGg0SFV2TG1teVlFaWc9PQ==--622e2baee790f8efb1144e9240ed1ada4b3fe5c8/t/sPPdN-QnogdXn-bc1HPX/resource/work/18711695/The_Nutritive_Value_of_Zornia_glochidiata_as_a_Non_conventional_Feedstuff_in_Rabbit_in_Sokoto_Nigeria?email_work_card=title

===1994 Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Rk9LdEk3cUt6aDQwdEUvK0dPaHhvUkRVRk5iUzdlV05WelVvS3prZkJGdz0tLWZZRFZWUGN3N2ZNTTBFOU4zRElqQ0E9PQ==--bd7de4edfce98920e93a0b1c5d01a3591f51cc78/t/sPPdN-Qdcm7Pe-p67QM/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

==Corn==

=== 2011 EFFECT OF DIETARY CORN COBS AND ENZYMESSUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWING RABBITS PERFORMANCE===
https://www.academia.edu/8019560/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_CORN_COBS_AND_ENZYMES_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWING_RABBITS_PERFORMANCE?email_work_card=title

== Various Legume as feed and feed supplements==

===2013 Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits" by Donald Chisowa===
Vol. 1(5), pp.57-67, August 2013 Available online at http://www.accessinterjournals.org/aijasCopyright ©2013 Access International Journals
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SWR6b1dLWFNBb3pxbFh3VXNCUmxjWnFuV0hac1JuMnhjVERWUzh3djYwOD0tLTdwcXJ2VmJ1UTFTa0p5TzBCUFdlb1E9PQ==--e17ca3b4f9f183f27b84e94a67e75efe6ebf36f4/t/sPPdN-QoQRVXM-WNtJE/resource/work/11351185/Evaluation_of_soybean_Glycine_max_cowpea_Vigna_unguiculata_and_pigeon_pea_Cajanus_cajan_as_sole_sources_of_proteins_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

notes: The highest post-weaning mortality was observed in rabbits fed cowpea-based ration. Rabbits fed cowpea-based ration were found to have pale, pathologically enlarged kidneys during post-mortem and carcass analysis (Plates 1, 2). Rabbits fed cowpea-based ration were also found with hemorrhagic intestines and pale livers during post-mortem. In Conclusion :The results observed in this study indicate superiority of soybean over pigeon pea and cowpea as sole sources of protein in rabbit rations. The study further demonstrated that pigeon pea was superior to cowpea as a sole source of protein in rabbit rations. The study has also indicated that even though soybean has been observed to be more effective than pigeon pea and cowpea as a protein supplement, pigeon pea can replace soybean without adversely affecting the performance of rabbits. Results of this study suggest that the variety of cowpea used in these experiments is not suitable as a sole source of protein in rabbit rations because of its high tannin content. Results of this study have demonstrated that the Flemish Giant performs better than the New Zealand

White and the California Black under similar management system.

===2016 EFFECT OF FEEDING OLIVE CAKE SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT BENTONITE ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" ===

EFFECT OF FEEDING OLIVE CAKE SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT BENTONITE ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWINGRABBITS
Egyptian Journal of Rabbit Science 26(2):211-230
DOI:10.21608/ejrs.2016.42076

Walaa A. Salama; M.M. Basyony; Marwa A. Suliman, R.I.M. Matari and Hanan A.M. Hassanein
Animal Production Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, El-Dokki,Giza, Egypt .
Corresponding author: walaa A. Salama, E-mail" Address" walaa.attia2@gmail.com

https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aGhEa0Y3MXpTUm9QK0g4NS8rbGVZTmwyL3Q2Wmd1bFh0VzhhYTFkR1lGTT0tLWdvNlFRT0hhcEowVy9ESGpQTFplTHc9PQ==--e954ae63b78666fe8b6026136d1caa841a3244e7/t/sPPdN-QaECJQk-baz1zi/resource/work/36496594/EFFECT_OF_FEEDING_OLIVE_CAKE_SUPPLEMENTED_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_BENTONITE_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334743966_EFFECT_OF_FEEDING_OLIVE_CAKE_SUPPLEMENTED_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_BENTONITE_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS

=== 2011, Influence of dietary benzoic acid addition on nutrient digestibility and selected biochemical parameters in fattening rabbits" by K. Fegeros===

a b s t r a c t

The effects of two inclusion levels of benzoic acid (5 and 20g/kg diet; B5 and B20, respectively) vs. a control (C) and an antibiotic (tiamulin) supplemented (A; 150mg/kg) diet onnutrientdigestibilityandselectedbiochemicalparameterswereinvestigatedin48weaned(n=12 per treatment) rabbits (35 days old). Blood samples were obtained (at 45 and 85days of age) to measure erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity, plasma alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and Ca and P levels. At 56 days of age total tract apparent digestibility (TTAD) was determined. At the end of the trial (85 days) rabbits were slaughtered for subsequent measurements. GSH-Px activity was also determined in liver homogenates post-mortem. Benzoic acid inclusion level decreased linearly (P<0.05) the weight of total full gastrointestinal tract, resulting in a trend (P=0.058) to increased dressingyield. The TTAD of organic matter(OM)increased linearly(P<0.05),whereas that of dry matter, crude protein and gross energy tended to increase (P=0.067, P=0.090 and P=0.098,respectively)withbenzoicacidincrement.TheTTADofaNDFom,hemicellulosesandcellu-lose was affected quadratically (P<0.05) by benzoic acid supplementation, with the B5-fedrabbits showing the higher values. Plasma ALP activity and P levels were linearly reduced(P<0.001) by benzoic acid inclusion, but no inﬂuence was observed on GSH-Px activity in erythrocytes or liver. In conclusion, dietary benzoic acid affects the TTAD of OM and ﬁbre fractions in a dose dependent manner, without having any adverse effect on the systemic markers (biochemical parameters) examined.

https://www.academia.edu/keypass/b2lheWJTUWNnUEVBTG5Ddm1YamhzSDQySGNZd0k1TVV1aE1ldmFVR1RGVT0tLUNLSk5MYmlvYW1kN29STUUzSCtPelE9PQ==--917462902d2600191af2d70536465a40bd316be4/t/sPPdN-QepHj7D-VtVZd/resource/work/30474431/Influence_of_dietary_benzoic_acid_addition_on_nutrient_digestibility_and_selected_biochemical_parameters_in_fattening_rabbits?email_work_card=title

===2013 Hamed A.A Omerand Azza M.M. Badr.Growth Performance of New Zealand White Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Pea StrawLife Science Journal 2013;10(2)" by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/U2pZNE5LYmdLY2NleXppeDhCb2owd2YxZ0FDNWJub2IzNmNsM0ZCNlpIQT0tLU51UHBhN3JGQ0ZmOWJYclJTdWRKNkE9PQ==--429eb979b597c8159c3230f2bb5e087f0b6765ca/t/sPPdN-QcSQb5L-bxcsdM/resource/work/8539260/Hamed_A_A_Omerand_Azza_M_M_Badr_Growth_Performance_of_New_Zealand_White_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Levels_of_Pea_StrawLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_2_?email_work_card=title

Conclusion: Under the conditions of this experiment, the results indicated that, pea straw could be used up to50% in growing rabbit diets in place of the most conventional ingredients (berseem hay), or incorporated pea straw at 20 % of growing rabbit diets, achieved a better results of growth, carcass, digestibility and economic efficiency without any adverse effect on productive performance of growing rabbits

=== 2006 GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BLOOD COMPONENTS AND SLAUGHTER TRAITS OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE MALE GROWING RABBITS AS AFFECTED BY DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH CALCIUM, SODIUM OR POTASSIUM, IN SUB-TROPICAL EGYPT===

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BLOOD COMPONENTS AND SLAUGHTERTRAITS OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE MALE GROWING RABBITS ASAFFECTED BY DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH CALCIUM, SODIUMOR POTASSIUM, IN SUB-TROPICAL EGYPT
Dep. Animal Production, Fac.f Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt.
I.F.M. Marai*, M.S. Ayyat, and U.M. Abd El-Monem
*Corresponding Author

SUMMARY
The study aimed to investigate growth performance, blood components and slaughter traits of NZW male growing (broiler) rabbits (78 animals) as affected by dietary supplementation with calcium, sodium or potassium during 3 months in each of summer and winter, in Egypt. Effects of seasons of the year on the same traits, were also studied. Live body weight, daily body gain weight, serum total protein, albumin, globulin(blood components), urea-N, creatinine (kidney function), AST (Serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase) and ALT (Serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase) (liver function), pre-slaughter weight and adjusted weights of carcass, fore-part, hind-part and head of New Zealand White (NZW ) male rabbits were significantly (P<0.001, 0.01 or 0.05) lower in summer than in winter due to the effect of heat stress. Minerals supplementation affected significantly (P<0.001, 0.01 or0.05) male rabbit in final live body weight, daily gain weight, serum total protein and albumin and adjusted weights of carcass and head. Supplementation (per kg diet) with each of 100 mg calcium oxide, 150 mg sodium chloride or 300 mg potassium bicarbonate exceeded significantly (P<0.05) the control diet, at the end of the experimental period. The increase values were 21.3, 9.0 and 7.2%, respectively. Interaction between season and minerals supplementation effects were significant ((P>0.001, 0.01 or 0.05) on final live body weight, daily body gain weight, serum total protein and albumin, pre-slaughter weight and adjusted weights of liver, carcass intermediate and hind parts and head of NZW male rabbit. The magnitude of improvement was the highest with potassium bicarbonate (300 mg/kg diet)followed by calcium oxide (100 mg/kg diet), in winter. In summer, the highest improvement obtained was with sodium chloride (150 mg/kg diet) supplementation.

At he same time, the interaction effects of the other mineral supplements on the studied traits were negative in the two seasons Pre-slaughter weight significantly affected (P>0.001 or 0.01) adjusted weights of carcass, liver, fore part, intermediate part, hind part and head.
Key words:
Rabbits, growth performances, blood components, slaughter traits, heat stress, minerals supplementation.

https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SU9MMGRUSEhLWGlNT20zaXdkTXEyUjJYYWlFaDI2RHRqNnZtYXF1Z1d6WT0tLUphSHIxRlRRbUZQQituR25Gc0dkK2c9PQ==--841cf9236890a2487e4a977273720546ef9a32dc/t/sPPdN-QaqqFUB-nAEXb/resource/work/12692254/GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_BLOOD_COMPONENTS_AND_SLAUGHTER_TRAITS_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_MALE_GROWING_RABBITS_AS_AFFECTED_BY_DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTATION_WITH_CALCIUM_SODIUM_OR_POTASSIUM_IN_SUB_TROPICAL_EGYPT?email_work_card=title

=== 2000 Effect of Chemical Composition of Alfalfa Hay on Several . Digestive Measurements in Growing Rabbits" by Rosa Carabaño===

EFFECT OF CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF ALFALFA HAY ON SEVERAL DIGESTIVE MEASUREMENTS IN GROWING RABBITS
J. Garcia, c. de Blas, R. Carabafio, and P. Garcia
DEPARTAMENTO DE PRODUCCION ANIMAL, E.T.S.I. AGRONOMOS,
UNIVERSIDAD POLITECNICA, 28040 MADRID, SPAIN

Abstract:
Seventy five New Zealand White x Californian rabbits were used to study the influence of chemical composition of alfalfa hay on caecal and cecotrophy characteristics in growing rabbits. Five alfalfa hays were selected varying from 387 to 550 g NDF/kg DM and 35.2 to 27.0 g N/kg DM. Caecum, caecal contents and whole digestive tract weight (%bodyweight) and caecal NDF increased linearly (P=0.001) with the NDF content of diet. This fact implied the impairment of carcass performance when increased the fibre of diet. A linear decrease with NDF content of diet was observed for caecal N (P=0.001) and ammonia concentration ( P=O. 024) , the lowest value of ammonia concentration being 15.4 mg N-NH3/100 ml. A quadratic tendency (P=0.062) of type of diet was observed for the total VFA content, the extreme diets having the highest concentrations (as average 87.9 mmol/1). Caecal pH (as average 5.76) and VFA molar proportions (as average 79.3, 6.6 and 14.1% for acetic, propionic and butyric acid respectively) did not vary with type of diet. Total and microbial nitrogen content of soft faeces decreased linearly with dietary NDF (P=0.001).
Soft faeces of alfalfa A showed the highest value of total and microbial nitrogen ( 5. 2 and 2 .1%, respectively). Contribution of soft faeces to DM intake was not affected by type of diet, whereas contribution to N intake were quadratically influenced by diet, having alfalfas A and Ethe highest values ( as average 22. 9%) . It can be concluded that the variation on chemical composition of alfalfa hays produce a change in variables that indicate fermentation characteristics such as caecal ammonia, VFA and microbial nitrogen concentration. However, this changes do not affect the caecal pH value.
Key Words: Alfalfa hay, rabbits, caecum, caecotrophy.

https://www.academia.edu/keypass/VldVYTkrN3FQVmVjZzBlT0tPSXFNN3lJWks5a0JDbSs2Nm0vWk5yNTAvZz0tLThQaE85MTc3Vlo2YmdwVSsrTFpJdWc9PQ==--90cc8df7accb7e7757b217e27490b7698e7cf5a0/t/sPPdN-Qa9cnMB-B2d8N/resource/work/24812249/Effect_of_Chemical_Composition_of_Alfalfa_Hay_on_Several_Digestive_Measurements_in_Growing_Rabbits?email_work_card=title

===1994 Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" ===

Additional energy supplements in the diet for fattening rabbits
Abdalla M.A., Ayyat M.S., Bassuny S.M., Rashwan A.A., Yamani K.A.O.
in
Baselga M. (ed.), Marai I.F.M. (ed.).Rabbit production in hot climatesZaragoza : CIHEAMCahiers Options Méditerranéennes; n. 81994
pages 223-231

https://www.academia.edu/keypass/NHFKYlphcXg4VWNzZGVkSDVmVVFXYXlqOCtHSEVrd3RLN0NQN2xDZFZwYz0tLVVFcFpIZE9zV3pEWWRkU1Z5N09JcUE9PQ==--b6e433ce56d2392549ee5b405d73fa8c16e303ff/t/sPPdN-QaifWu2-bfmPBZ/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

==COMMERCIAL ENZYMES==

===EFFECT OF USING COMMERCIAL ENZYMES TO IMPROVE DIETS CONTAINED PEANUT HAY ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by Fathy Atta===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OUJlVHFVTHozWlFQYW9idGdPUmJSUHJFZElZdGRXR3Fpc04rZU41N1IrZz0tLXlWY2FhdldaTll1Y1AwbEpxczAxbXc9PQ==--e16599d129e829b7da7a4ca4d6c379ce72e7532b/t/sPPdN-QeUbKK9-bxtmgk/resource/work/7230460/EFFECT_OF_USING_COMMERCIAL_ENZYMES_TO_IMPROVE_DIETS_CONTAINED_PEANUT_HAY_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

===RESPONSE OF GROWING RABBITS TO DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF WHEAT SCREENING BY-PRODUCT WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION " by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bGpGeEkrdzZ3NE5PU2hKYUNZdmRQN1JMYjdqMU51RGc0clRmTStHTVhwbz0tLTF5bnhHY0V1TUxLNnZrR1N1WmdmVVE9PQ==--e42c63ee99bdc464d47fa63c8decab24ae97b4fb/t/sPPdN-Qc5erQc-bhct0a/resource/work/5108323/RESPONSE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_TO_DIETS_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_WHEAT_SCREENING_BY_PRODUCT_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_ENZYME_SUPPLEMENTATION?email_work_card=title

===EFFECT OF DIETARY CORN COBS AND ENZYMES SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWING RABBITS PERFORMANCE===
https://www.academia.edu/8019560/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_CORN_COBS_AND_ENZYMES_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWING_RABBITS_PERFORMANCE?email_work_card=title
Ibrahim abaza

===EFFECT OF ENZYMES AND PROBIOTIC MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION TO THE DIET OF GROWING FEMALE RABBITS ON PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CRITERIA" by Mohamed El-Sagheer===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bFNjQ1hweHdXMU5jZStuaTVwR0FNMEl2S2FHYzNLa2twOExReE9oeU9OVT0tLUQ5RXdoNElpYzlpUGJCK0hmMnhseVE9PQ==--05cb9b9a585550db2c1c6d59abe3c29322dc3ee1/t/sPPdN-QaMLryt-K4jEZ/resource/work/11938475/EFFECT_OF_ENZYMES_AND_PROBIOTIC_MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION_TO_THE_DIET_OF_GROWING_FEMALE_RABBITS_ON_PERFORMANCE_AND_CARCASS_CRITERIA?email_work_card=title

==Effect of energy restriction in interaction with genotype on the performance of growing rabbits: II. Carcass traits and meat quality" by Z. Szendrő==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/ZTN1b3FROWR1aUZhWGM1Q0FJRk1XcWpSajlIRDdGUlZUakRXc21FRmxjaz0tLVNIdE1PS3ZtdnZuR1hWWm82UDg3U3c9PQ==--669990dfc647432f898e381ed8b9b41de23c78aa/t/sPPdN-QmqdKDg-bmjCCY/resource/work/13592540/Effect_of_energy_restriction_in_interaction_with_genotype_on_the_performance_of_growing_rabbits_II_Carcass_traits_and_meat_quality?email_work_card=title

==Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by hadil samy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bDBFWG8wcXl1MlBnSjlyenBnUkhKL2FZTmVnYmtyVW9vbThrWGNwaERMOD0tLXY4WWFsRlpHU0FKWVRTRTlLTmRCRnc9PQ==--6433eef0d04443b5c7e946a1c73ae59282239da3/t/sPPdN-Qmh7hzB-insEp/resource/work/27823893/Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

==DOI: Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by Fathy Abdel-Fattah==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L2g5dmN3WEx4d01hb3JHanJkL1pUQXhZSXBMd3JwczQyVGlGeUhaakFxcz0tLUFPYUloZy9HZnAzMU1wMklmcDUxcEE9PQ==--cf05b9d08abd2994dce26ca3b775a8a327b9c34f/t/sPPdN-QqEo2CE-fAfA5/resource/work/38091315/DOI_Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

==INCLUSION OF DRIED AGRO-INDUSTRIAL STRAWBERRY BY- PRODUCTS IN GROWING RABBIT DIETS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/N0V6STlENndzVWprbmthVTJGZEtGcUVha0RzZ2dCWm5sVFZXSFI5VFRPOD0tLWMxRjUyRHpHZ2pyU0l3SGkyR2JXVGc9PQ==--bdf935bf33d5e21673da61a284addd06919e86b9/t/sPPdN-QhFdf7T-VUozM/resource/work/36496618/INCLUSION_OF_DRIED_AGRO_INDUSTRIAL_STRAWBERRY_BY_PRODUCTS_IN_GROWING_RABBIT_DIETS?email_work_card=title

==Rabbit’s performance, health and meat quality improvement by phyto-additives" by Attawit Kovitvadhi==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bi8vWGZUcnVHM00zaDJSRklnOWVsV1VtMjlFQjFnQVNDN3VOUXJEQ3Z4Yz0tLXI0MndMN2J3UE8xZkNMbG5yV21YMmc9PQ==--c03893c550d192819f3dde5b88cb43c0251cfc1e/t/sPPdN-QqNsCkH-0zMCL/resource/work/19803703/Rabbit_s_performance_health_and_meat_quality_improvement_by_phyto_additives?email_work_card=title

==PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIET CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TOMATO POMACE" by Mahmoud Elazab==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/eDNRMFl1YXdrb2ZTMGdxUkJTYkRTWDNzYkJoVHRVN2locDY1c3FjT3ZCcz0tLTB0R3RFeXZLNGduVlQvN2VQQ1ZaL3c9PQ==--b8af070801c6d13d7041b1060baf6b0b2f86db3f/t/sPPdN-QhbGBew-kbnLX/resource/work/35484427/PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_FED_DIET_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_TOMATO_POMACE?email_work_card=title

==Growth performance, carcass quality, biochemical and haematological traits and immune response of growing rabbits as affected by different growth promoters" by Youssef Attia==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/dVhDUDgwSXFFTHo0UVBldFNXOHFQVkhsbFZnVEphQm50U1FtK1BNc2JIRT0tLXZOQUhpcFFDZ2czSndMaXZDNGVWTVE9PQ==--3f889f2926497df89c9685f9795796f88b4c76c3/t/sPPdN-Qg4y1P2-UzbBy/resource/work/21181061/Growth_performance_carcass_quality_biochemical_and_haematological_traits_and_immune_response_of_growing_rabbits_as_affected_by_different_growth_promoters?email_work_card=title

==EVALUATION OF EGYPTIAN TREE WILLOW (Salix safsafs) LEAVES AND ITS FEEDING AFFECT ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBITS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/d1NVejZIa0VOYm5mUit1dG9xTVdkZ1VHOTB0QUM4aGhHS2xaTVQvcklSTT0tLS9zbXdWNDdBcXBnZFhySTA2Slhxdnc9PQ==--5649e5cdede150483096497d7b424e160c3a414a/t/sPPdN-QdV9eNq-9MtFF/resource/work/36496604/EVALUATION_OF_EGYPTIAN_TREE_WILLOW_Salix_safsafs_LEAVES_AND_ITS_FEEDING_AFFECT_ON_PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

==UTILIZATION OF Ziziphus spina-christi LEAVES AS A NATURAL GROWTH PROMOTER IN RABBIT'S RATIONS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEhlWjJsMlJyc3JCNDNVUlJUK05CaHR2V1NoYWMwVStxTlIrUWloZjEvbz0tLVZEdkJxZVYrc00zYm5aWE5kT0NTTEE9PQ==--b040db53fb351cf834d73ebd3dada957c02e4c95/t/sPPdN-Qfu5LUn-617sS/resource/work/36496613/UTILIZATION_OF_Ziziphus_spina_christi_LEAVES_AS_A_NATURAL_GROWTH_PROMOTER_IN_RABBITS_RATIONS?email_work_card=title

==Effect of replacement of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) hay by berseem silage on performance of growing rabbits" by Hamed Gaafar==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MzFNWE5hWklnWXhlcStJNExWNjBvcEhudjN1dTZNaVVjdzlnZGpyNVZnMD0tLU4veFVJRldVSElzRy9oN0k2U0tWa1E9PQ==--7562f212c75e4f5a0c8e066594e00fd0239031f2/t/sPPdN-QdyLbjc-qbmgV/resource/work/31846675/Effect_of_replacement_of_berseem_Trifolium_alexandrinum_L_hay_by_berseem_silage_on_performance_of_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

==Oil added to feed==
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662

===Effects of Rocket Seed Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, and Their Mixture on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Digestibility, Redox Status, and Meat Fatty Acid Profile of Growing Rabbits===
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662

===Improving the Utilization of Rabbit Diets Containing Vegetable Oil by Using Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) And Oregano (Origanum vulgare L) as Feed Additives" by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YmlrSzU4SGRBZUJCbGViT0xjNDBZMk0vUGpVTzlFZnlWNjBtbFNSSGVMUT0tLWFlWGtLQVQycjFDSlU3ZmhTcURHdnc9PQ==--b809c3d7d0c75ba0dc95475b2ed5ba659e21e9b8/t/sPPdN-Qe1mzqP-AJQtS/resource/work/12250896/Improving_the_Utilization_of_Rabbit_Diets_Containing_Vegetable_Oil_by_Using_Fennel_Foeniculum_vulgare_And_Oregano_Origanum_vulgare_L_as_Feed_Additives?email_work_card=title

===Study of the effect of grape seed extract as a natural antioxidant on the performance of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits during summer season in Egypt Fawzia A. Hassan1; Khalid M. Mahrose2 and Mohamed Basyony3" by mohamed basyony===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Z0t1TlpMWlo4TjlkRmtURzkxY01MeWZMcEd2SmczNURyUE1GNm10Sy9jaz0tLWNBZ3pLMVZ6RDJ6dnJzeEhsRitsaGc9PQ==--3ea66988e3650ec90c1f8439baede86ffca6bf57/t/sPPdN-QdrCvu9-byFUwt/resource/work/21659194/Study_of_the_effect_of_grape_seed_extract_as_a_natural_antioxidant_on_the_performance_of_New_Zealand_White_NZW_rabbits_during_summer_season_in_Egypt_Fawzia_A_Hassan1_Khalid_M_Mahrose2_and_Mohamed_Basyony3?email_work_card=title

==Cabbage==
Studies since the 1920s have found that cruciferous vegetables cause thyroid problems in rabbits. I has been proven Dangerous to over feed rabbits cabbage and broccoli and bokchoy due to the negative effects on the Thyroid gland.

===2016 Studies on Simple Goiter Produced by Cabbage and Other Vegetables. ===
David Marine, Emil J. Baumann, and Anna CipraView all authors and affiliations
Volume 26, Issue 9 https://doi.org/10.3181/00379727-26-4535
Abstract
Chesney, Webster and Clawson,, have shown that when fresh cabbage (Brassica oleracea) is fed to rabbits as the principal food, clinically detectable thyroid hyperplasia occurs in 2 or 3 months, and with continued cabbage feeding
very large goiters (up to 45 gm.) have been produced. They further showed that the development of goiter was associated with a lowering of the metabolism and that the administration of small amounts of iodine readily raises the
metabolic rate in goiterous rabbits and prevents thyroid hyperplasia. In these respects, as well as histologically, the thyroid hyperplasia produced by feeding cabbage is identical with that of simple or endemic goiter. We have
confirmed these findings. Boiling or steaming cabbage for 30 minutes increases its capacity to produce thyroid hyperplasia. Steaming for 15 minutes is less effective and steaming for 60 minutes renders it neither more nor less
potent than for 30 minutes. Steamed cabbage from which 60% of the weight is removed as press juice is practically as effective as whole cabbage when fed in calori-equivalent amounts. Hashed fresh cabbage has very little capacity
to produce thyroid hyperplasia, while hashed steamed cabbage fully retains this quality. In our hands the press juice of 500 gm. of steamed cabbage (300 cc.) when fed daily to rabbits whether whole or concentrated in vacuo was
only slightly effective. Rabbits previously iodized and fed with fresh cabbage up to 75 calories per kg. per day (3 gm. of cabbage are equivalent to approximately 1 calorie) developed palpable thyroids in about 30 days, while
with the same amount of steamed cabbage only 10 to 15 days were necessary. The lowering of the metabolic rate to the thyroidectomy level (from about 2.4 to 1.75 calories per kg. per hour) would also occur in about half the time
required if fresh cabbage were used.

conclusion
Although cabbage is an excellent food for rabbits it is evident that it contains a powerful goitrogenic agent which can be destroyed by enzymes existing in the plant and which can be preserved for many days when these enzymes
are destroyed by heat. Like other goitrogenic agents it exhausts the thyroxine store in the thyroid and hyperplasia follow's when this exhaustion reaches the critical level. The thyroid hyperplasia is therefore due immediately
to a relative deficiency of iodine and an iodine store sufficient to maintain normal thyroid structure for from 3 to 6 months may be exhausted in 2 weeks by feeding steamed cabbage. The possibility that the thyroid hyperplasia
due to feeding cabbage is dependent upon an absolute iodine deficiency can be dismissed. The mode of action of this goiterogenic agent is unknown, although the data available suggest that it acts by depressing some oxidation
system which the thyroid attempts to overcome.

https://sci-hub.se/10.3181/00379727-26-4535

===2015 Efficacy of the Cruciferous Vegetable on the Thyroid Gland and the Gonads in Rabbits ===
http://nexusacademicpublishers.com/uploads/files/Nexus_AAVS_Nexus_611_Abdul-Aziz.pdf

Abstract |
The aim of this study was to examine the changes in the thyroid glands and the gonads of rabbits after eating the cruciferous vegetable. The animals divided into three equal groups (eight mature female, mature male and eight of
their kits for each group). The first group was fed normal vegetable, the second group was fed cruciferous vegetable for two days followed by normal food at third day and persisted for one month, while were estimated. The
triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) were determined in the serum. Results show the effects of the cruciferous vegetable were increased the thyrocytes height and number, vacuolation of the sytoplasm and decreases of the
follicular colloid and the follicular size, in addition to decreases in T3 and T4 hormones in the serum. The activities of thyroid gland and in turn adversely affects the effectiveness of the male and female gonads in addition to
its impact on young.
conclusion
In conclusion, the cruciferous vegetable can make
hypothyroidism in rabbit which resulting hypertrophy and in kits hyperplasia of the thyroid gland, in addition to the effects the male and female gonads function.

*Editor | Kuldeep Dhama, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Uttar Pradesh, India.
*Received | January 14, 2015; Revised | February 14, 2015; Accepted | February 15, 2015; Published | February 21, 2015
*Correspondence | Khalid Kamil Kadhim, University of Baghdad, Iraq; Email: khalidkamkad@yahoo.com
*Citation | Abdul-Aziz A, Kadhim KK (2015). Efficacy of the cruciferous vegetable on the thyroid gland and the gonads in rabbits. Adv. Anim. Vet. Sci. 3(3): 183-191.
*DOI | http://dx.doi.org/10.14737/journal.aavs/2015/3.3.183.191
*ISSN (Online) | 2307-8316; ISSN (Print) | 2309-3331
Copyright © 2015 Abdul-Aziz et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

===1930 THE OCCURRENCE OF SEASONAL VARIATIONS IN THE GOITER OF RABBITS PRODUCED BY FEEDING CABBAGE===
BY BRUCE WEBSTER,* M.D., DAVID MARINE, M.D., AND ANNA CIPRA
From the Department of Medicine of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, and the Laboratory Division, Montefiore Hospital, New" York
Received for publication, July 23, 1930 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.3181/00379727-26-4535

= Wire caging and flooring=

http://shinysatins.weebly.com/wire-floor-research.html

Will need each study linked here in case Shiny Stains ever goes down ...

===2022 Preliminary Evidence Regarding the Detection of Cortisol and IL-6 to Assess Animal Welfare and Various Rabbit Housing Systems===

October 2022 Giancarlo Bozzo et, al. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/12/10/1622

<blockquote>"The main purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of three different rabbit rearing systems using animal-based measures. Therefore, in 2021, cortisol and IL-6 were assessed during a Biosecurity System pilot program to evaluate rabbit welfare, based on EU Regulation 2016/429 in the Apulia region of Southern Italy. The study was carried out on a total of 45 meat-type rabbits, divided into 3 groups of 15 subjects, aged approximately 60–65 days. Groups came from either: (i) a niche open-air system; (ii) a niche system in a shed with conventional cages, or (iii) an industrial system. Based on our findings, the rearing system had a significant effect (p < 0.0001) on the animal-based measures. Cortisol levels were higher in rabbits raised in the niche open-air system compared to those raised in both the niche system located in a shed with conventional cages and the industrial system (11.91 vs. 2.86 and 2.72 ng/mL, respectively). Likewise, IL-6 values were higher in rabbits from the niche open-air system (45.80 ng/mL) and lower in rabbits from the niche system in a shed with conventional cages and those from the industrial system (23.30 and 16.80 ng/mL, respectively). According to the results of the stress indicators measured, cortisol and IL-6, rabbit welfare and meat quality may be affected by rabbit rearing systems."

===https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/11/11/3040===

=== 2020 Behavioral Effects of Cage Size and Environmental Enrichment in New Zealand White Rabbits===
Kathleen A Coda 1,*, Jeffrey D Fortman 1, Kelly D García 1
Author information
Article notes
Copyright and License information
PMCID: PMC7338877 PMID: 32522314
J Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci. 2020 Jul;59(4):356–364. doi: 10.30802/AALAS-JAALAS-19-000136
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7338877/ review sample seemed small and behavior seems misinterpreted

=== 2019 Investigations on the Influence of Floor Design on Dirtiness and Foot Pad Lesions in Growing Rabbits===
Till Masthoff 1, Steffen Hoy 1,*
Author information
Article notes
Copyright and License information
PMCID: PMC6617535 PMID: 31197098

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6617535/
Animals (Basel). 2019 Jun 14;9(6):354. doi: 10.3390/ani9060354

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/235633729_Effect_of_Cage_Floor_Type_on_Behavior_and_Performance_of_Growing_Rabbits

10.5455/jva.20130219032609 <- wrong doi links to indiana anemia paper ... look up latter needs review. 2013.

Correct link here
Effect of Cage Floor Type on Behavior and Performance of Growing Rabbits

https://zvjz.journals.ekb.eg/article_28437_e5eabcc309723b5473258e086828792b.pdf

=Trancing=

After reviewing multiple papers the concussions I have drawn are, Hypnosis , and Tonic immobility are not the same thing as Calming inversion or the Roll used by Rabbit, Breeders , Judges and handlers .

In multiple studies it has been stated that in order to "induce" Tonic immobility or trancing, a rabbit had to either either be Violently slammed and than be restrained on it's back by applying pressure to neck and chest, or flipping completely prostrate and have pressure applied to neck and chest. The common dementor being "pressure applied to Thorax" . more current studies who simply rolled the rabbit in the standard exam position concluded that in the vast majority of cases the rabbits cortisol was much lower then the rabbits examed in the standard upright position. The earlier studies from the 1970's focused on fear response and were specifically trying to induce a fear based state. This honestly tainted any results and opinions surrounding where simply rolling a rabbit was actually damaging to it. as evidenced anecdotally by the millions of rabbits a year who are shown in ARBA sanctioned events where a judge rolling a rabbit on it's back to do a health exam of every rabbit on the table has shown us , it is not the case that rabbits are any more stressed or in any danger. House Rabbit Society, PeTA and AR activists have pushed for years that the act of flipping a rabbit over will kill it or cause it to have a heart attack. I this was the case the death rate at ARBA convention would be extremely high, just this year in 2023, 24,000 rabbits were judged at our 100th convention and zero died from being examined. I would expect if the claims were true , the act of flipping a rabbit on it's back would not be part of the regular judging and exam process.

=== 2021 Effect of tonic immobility induction on selected physiological parameters in Oryctolagus cuniculus f. Domesticus rabbits: 2021===
January 2021 Medycyna Weterynaryjna
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/350946951_Effect_of_tonic_immobility_induction_on_selected_physiological_parameters_in_Oryctolagus_cuniculus_f_Domesticus_rabbits

<blockquote>" Tonic immobility (TI) is a phenomenon known as thanatosis or apparent death. The phenomenon can be induced in many ways. It occurs, for example, in the presence of a hazard, as a result of coercion through an unnatural body position or as a result of administration of certain medicines. TI is sometimes used in veterinary practice to tame patients. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of tonic immobility induction on selected physiological parameters in Oryctolagus cuniculus f. Domesticus rabbits. The study included 20 healthy rabbits, patients of a veterinary clinic, divided into two groups of 10 individuals. In the study group, TI was induced to conduct a standard clinical trial, while the control group were subjected to a standard clinical trial without TI. Heart rate, respiratory rate, pupil diameter and blood glucose concentration were measured in all animals.
'''''The measurements were performed three times: after the patient’s arrival at the clinic, after a detailed clinical examination in a normal or tonic immobility position and 15 minutes after the end of the examination. Additionally, the blood cortisol concentration was measured twice: on arrival at the clinic and at the end of the clinical trial. The results of the experiment show that miniature rabbits feel less stress during tonic immobility testing than rabbits in the standing position, and therefore this phenomenon should be used for taming animals. ''''' "</blockquote>

RWAF .actually supports flipping them.

Assuming people read PAST the first few paragraphs from their Facebook post where they cite the McBride notes and a half page blurb from Sally Everett that was found as Appendix 3 in a text book and also was inconclusive. that was also inconclusive, RWAF wrote in reference to the Medycyna Weterynaryjna research :

<blockquote> .." The new paper is specifically about rabbits in a veterinary clinic setting. It shows that heart and respiratory rates stay the same or increase in rabbits when they are examined on their fronts, but decrease when they are examined on their backs. Pupil size, another measure of stress, increases when examined on their fronts, but not their backs. Blood glucose remained at a very similar level throughout in both groups. Blood cortisol goes up with handling in both groups, but increases less in those on their backs than their fronts. Rabbits entering a vet clinic are, by definition, already very stressed, so the baseline here is somewhat skewed (this is not a criticism of the paper, just an observation), with heart rates and, in particular, respiratory rates, well above those commonly suggested as "normal".
In summary, during TI in this study:
• Heart and breathing rate drop
• Pupil size decreases
• Glucose does not significantly change
• Cortisol increases (but less than during examination on their fronts)
• There is no suggestion that there is any kind of “natural” pain relief induced by TI.
• These are averages, and some rabbits show very different responses to others.
Conclusions we can draw from this:
• The changes seen during TI are not those of a "fight or flight" response.
• Some rabbits respond with decreases in signs, some with increases, suggesting different individual susceptibilities.
• We cannot say if a rabbit "likes" being turned on its back.
• The decrease in heart and respiratory rate suggest lowered physiological stress but this doesn’t necessarily equal less emotional stress.
And the main concern: there is a difference between lying on their back and “true” TI. Different ways to hold and restrain rabbits have different effects and may induce TI or may not. In her social media posts on this, Dr Harcourt-Brown mentions this too, drawing a distinction between TI and trancing. The author describes carefully putting rabbits into a position on their backs, which is how Dr Harcourt-Brown also puts it. The exact nature of the difference needs further exploration, with some suggestions previously that where rabbits have had TI used in the past are more susceptible to it in future, and whether there is an element of "learned helplessness" present in at least some cases.
This study was limited to a veterinary clinic setting. As vets, we need to incorporate these results into a contextualised care approach, and consider:
• Why we are doing it, for example to facilitate a life-saving diagnostic or therapeutic procedure like obtaining an x-ray.
• If the position is appropriate. For example, it is a good position to take a urine sample from the bladder but not for syringe feeding because of aspiration risk.
• How are we are lying them on their backs, and that it is in a stable and supported way.
• Whether we are inducing a physiologically relaxed response or inducing a state where the rabbit is tense and poising to jump up and run for its life.
• If it is appropriate for that rabbit. While the rabbits in this study appear to undergo a relaxation response, not all rabbits will do that. If the technique doesn’t work for an individual rabbit, there could be serious consequences if
they jump and twist.
• That there is no suggestion that this process has any analgesic benefit at all.
The only conclusions we can draw from this study are limited to a veterinary clinic setting and our advice for rabbits in all other settings remains the same. The RWAF aims to give the most up-to-date care advice for rabbits. As they are
studied more, there is more evidence, and our advice may therefore change in response.

Richard Saunders (he/him) BSc (Hons) BVSc FRSB CBiol DZooMed (Mammalian) DipECZM(ZHM) MRCVS
Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund Veterinary Advisor"</blockquote>

===2014 Dorsal immobility response in rabbits, Appendix note ===
Author: Sally Everitt From: BSAVA Manual of Rabbit Medicine Item: Appendix 3, pp 320 - 320 DOI: 10.22233/9781910443217.app3 Copyright: © 2014 British Small Animal Veterinary Association
Publication Date: February 2014 https://www.bsavalibrary.com/content/chapter/10.22233/9781910443217.app3

While this attempts to define the state which as it even acknowledges may be one of several different states it is overall inconclusive and the wildly parroted claims that the processes of simply flipping a rabbit on it's back creates such an extreme fear response as to '''CAUSE''' pain, or '''CAUSE '''a heart attack and death are wildly misrepresented.

the entire blurb:

[[File:2014 Dorsal immobility response in rabbits, Appendix note.JPG]]

=== 2006 Trancing Rabbits: Relaxed hypnosis or a state of fear? ===
https://eprints.hud.ac.uk/id/eprint/11361/
McBride, E.A., Day, S., McAdie, Tina M., Meredith, A., Barley, J., Hickman, J. and Lawes, L. (2006) Trancing Rabbits: Relaxed hypnosis or a state of fear? In: Proceedings of the VDWE International Congress on Companion Animal Behavior and Welfare. Flemish Veterinary Association, pp. 135-137. ISBN 90801104411

<blockquote>"Physiological measures included respiration, heart rate, blood pressure and plasma corticosterone levels which were recorded immediately prior to TI induction, upon TI termination and 15 minutes following TI termination. Behavioral measures included latency and duration of TI episodes as well as movement and frequencies of behaviors recorded during ten minute pre- and post-TI observation periods.

'''Six New Zealand White rabbits were used''', 2 entire females and 4 entire males. They were divided into two groups of one male and two females. Each rabbit acted as its own control in two TI trials, one trial to record behavioral measures and one for physiological measures." "Blood pressure measures showed considerable variation and '''no consistent pattern was observed'''."</blockquote>

===1977 Old study: LIMBIC MODULATION OF CONTACT DEFENSIVE IMMOBILITY ("ANIMAL HYPNOSIS") ===
-Michael Woodruff-

this study that many animal welfare agencies still parrot as valid has been debunked due to it's methodology, and rabbits rolled on their back are done so in a controlled manner for show, grooming and veterinary examination. The rabbits in this study were rapidly slammed there backs in a trough, and them forcibly held down for 15 second with the researcher's hand around their throat. The point of this study was to induce fear in the rabbit to induce the state of tonic immobility. later studies have shown simple rolling a rabbit on it's back actually calms it.

https://www.academia.edu/35547602/LIMBIC_MODULATION_OF_CONTACT_DEFENSIVE_IMMOBILITY_ANIMAL_HYPNOSIS_?source=swp_share
<blockquote>Preoperative
Behavioral Testing
Each rabbit was subjected to an immobiliza-tion test session prior to implantation of recording electrodes. The rabbit was transported from the colony room to the test room in a large box. The rabbit was taken from the transport
box and placed in an upright position in a wooden V-shaped trough as previously described (Woodruff et al., 1975). Immobility was induced 15 sec later by rapidly inverting the rabbit and forcibly re-straining it in the inverted
position by pressing the thorax with one hand. After 15 sec had elapsed, the hand was slowly with drawn and a clock started to time the duration of the response. If the rabbit did not become immobile within 15 sec, it was
allowed to right itself and remain in the upright position for an additional 15 sec before another trial commenced. Three consecutive induction trials were given in this manner.</blockquote>

Tonic immobility in rabbits is pretty much stated as fact , but finding any studies that actually prove flipping them over induces that state are hard to come by. it is generally understood as meaning the animal has to be physically incapable of movement, but obviously in real life, rabbits are able to flip themselves back over. that said , the study this was taken from was a single study done in the 70's where 12 rabbits were studied by being put into induced "tonic immobility" ie "trancing". by being SLAMMED into trays on there backs. The process of flipping a rabbit onto it's back .. did not cause it to be tranced.. the action of SLAMMING IT VIOLENTLY into a hard surface and forcibly restraining it buy grabbing it neck did.. knocking the wind out of it and stunning it.. yet THAT is the study that is parroted by HRS.

===1975 Old study using same abusive methodology to induce TI state: Cholinergic Modulation of Tonic Immobility in the Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)===
-Michael Woodruff -
1975, Journal of Comparative & Physiological Psychology

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/WFNHWDRXdGQ0RytyeENlMzlQWVZmdEhIdUNrOG1CdGRiUTFhNFIveGthTT0tLW5Ca3NOVEpHdmlvaXFIampVTGQ3QWc9PQ==--9a81e103466855ee3f9ebd12430c235ef9f2be86/t/sPPdN-QDsAqqE-bcGzSz/resource/work/39685658/Cholinergic_Modulation_of_Tonic_Immobility_in_the_Rabbit_Oryctolagus_cuniculus?email_work_card=title Cholinergic Modulation of Tonic Immobility in the Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)]

=HEAT RELATED=

=== 1997 [https://www.academia.edu/23248004/Effects_of_heat_stress_on_growth_carcass_traits_and_blood_components_of_New_Zealand_White_rabbits_fed_various_dietary_energy_fibre_levels_under_Egyptian_conditions?email_work_card=title ]Effects of heat stress on growth, carcass traits and blood components of New Zealand White rabbits fed various dietary energy–fibre levels, under Egyptian conditions===

==Study on the Optimal Crude Papaya Latex Content of Growing Rabbit Diet under Summer Conditions: Effects on Growth Performance and Immune Status" by Khaled ElKholy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/RVJicGJIVENSckhzcFBLckhUckEwbTlYOTFkUm1MeCsvL1RkOVBPeG1pbz0tLWRaTlZFY29iRVFVS1M3bFVrRzdHRkE9PQ==--379d908fdea7241251ded5ae5f2a71a0af1d0534/t/sPPdN-QdN4Bnz-zQ3xf/resource/work/5750569/Study_on_the_Optimal_Crude_Papaya_Latex_Content_of_Growing_Rabbit_Diet_under_Summer_Conditions_Effects_on_Growth_Performance_and_Immune_Status?email_work_card=title

==Influence of elevated ambient temperature upon some physiological measurements of New Zealand White rabbits" by Ahmed Alhaidary==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OFZ4ZFdoczZ6VFUrM0xmelZLSWFRZ2lKQWppUXdDYWRkK1BXMmduTUJNYz0tLWYwRlpic3RMeUh1RWdiVUZOOUhnMGc9PQ==--f80d84edfe191b23f2fdc4e020726ec7ed8dc6a4/t/sPPdN-Qctz1vp-4sY6r/resource/work/27981465/Influence_of_elevated_ambient_temperature_upon_some_physiological_measurements_of_New_Zealand_White_rabbits?email_work_card=title

==Evaluation of Using Honey, Cool Water and Levamisole against Heat Stress on Different Traits of Rabbits under Egyptian Summer Conditions" by World's Veterinary Journal Editor==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YjVWSklTK05ZMlN1NEc2TE9sYmFnZG9LZFpKQ0dEbys4cGFIK2g2c2xlND0tLTZxOVhOQjBrSTJyLzNmLzBXUTNPY1E9PQ==--55859fd219a9b4e60f8bd2add39044d808301800/t/sPPdN-QewNEC4-t31ks/resource/work/26061042/Evaluation_of_Using_Honey_Cool_Water_and_Levamisole_against_Heat_Stress_on_Different_Traits_of_Rabbits_under_Egyptian_Summer_Conditions?email_work_card=title

To cite this paper: El Saidy NR., Allam FE, Balabel TM and El-Midany SA (2016). Evaluation of Using Honey, Cool Water and Levamisole against Heat Stress onDifferent Traits of Rabbits under Egyptian Summer Conditions.
World's Vet. J.(1): 10-18.Journal homepage: http://wvj.science-line.com/ © 2016, Science line Publication World’s Veterinary Journal World Vet J, 6(1): 10-18, March 25, 2016
ISSN 2322-4568

Evaluation of Using Honey, Cool Water and Levamisole against HeatStress on Different Traits of Rabbits under Egyptian Summer Conditions Nagham Rafeek El Saidy, Fatma, El-Sayed Allam, Tarek Mousa Balabel and Sami Abdel-Aziz El-Midany Department of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh Governorate, Egypt.Post Graduate Student at Department of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh Governorate, Egypt. Department of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine (Animal Behavior and Welfare), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh Governorate, Egypt.
*Corresponding author’s Email: nagham.elsaidy@yahoo.com

<blockquote>ABSTRACT
This study was conducted in order to estimate the impact of using honey in drinking water, drinking cool water andLevamisole injection as alleviated tools of heat stress on White New Zealand rabbits under Egyptian summer conditions. 40 sexually mature White New Zealand rabbits contained 36 does with an average age of 15-20 (18±2)weeks and nearly similar body weight of 2 kg and 4 fertile bucks with an average age of 24 weeks and average weight of 2.5 kg were used in this experiment. They were allocated into four groups each containing 9 does and 1buck. Group I was kept as a control without any treatment, group II received honey 20 ml/l on drinking water, group III drank cold water with a temperature ranged from 16-200C and group IV received a single dose of subcutaneous Levamisole injection (2 mg/kg BW). Results showed that most of performance, reproductive and physiological parameters of examined rabbits were significantly decreased by heat stress under Egyptian summer conditions. However, treated groups showed improved traits on most examined parameters comparing with control group. Among the treated groups, the one treated with honey expressed significant increase (P<0.05) in body weight, bodyweight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, water consumption, conception rate, litter size and weight, milk yield, economic efficiency, rectal temperature, hematological parameters and some serum biochemical parameters. On the other hand, the group which received cool water showed the best records for decreased levels of serum urea, creatine and respiratory rate. In conclusion, it is clear that heat stress has negative effects on reproductive and physiological traits of growing rabbits with drawing attention toward the importance of using alleviating methods for mitigating the negative effects of heat stress especially by using honey and drinking cool water.
Key words:
Heat stress, Honey, Cool water, Levamisole, Rabbit traits</blockquote>

notes : From these results, it could be concluded that the adverse impact of exposure of growing rabbits to severe heat stress under the warm subtropical environmental conditions of Egypt could be mitigated through addition of honey to drinking water also via drinking cool water. This could minimize reproductive losses, as they have positive effect on rabbit's reproductive traits via increase conception rate, litter weight at birth, kits body weight at weaning and weight gain and milk yield. On other hand, decrease fetal losses .Furthermore, improve most of rabbit's performance traits.

=Genetics and Cross Breeding=

==Crossbreeding experiments on meat rabbits in Northern Mediterranean Countries: a survey" by Giorgio Masoero==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/K3RhcDVocnhyWHZhQStkc1pOaTB3dkI5bGpJalViay83bnErZFlyQWI1VT0tLTVCTDU2cFJ3N1JoZXhsc2JzVmtVRFE9PQ==--55661456d9ff5c6162231b9ca51700549fa19664/t/sPPdN-Qehxh4g-Drozi/resource/work/19291048/Crossbreeding_experiments_on_meat_rabbits_in_Northern_Mediterranean_Countries_a_survey?email_work_card=title

=bulk dump=

Jacob Lansing did a research project. I thought it interesting that no hay animals had lower occurrences of issues for the most part ;)

https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:b63ad8b8-96df-4109-bc0f-47a9c7c08429

Japanese longevity study for lab rabbits

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1557506322000787

==bladder==

https://sci-hub.se/10.1111/jpn.13565

https://www.dvm360.com/view/rabbit-calcium-metabolism-bladder-sludge-and-urolithiasis-proceedings

he was soo close then lost it at diet.
Paper does bring up the ties to estrogen testosterone and calcium absorption. Didn't directly corelate to effects of spay nueter but brings up a few questions. Mentions psychological causes of sludge then completly misses the point and falls back on hrs feed recommendations.
--

Calcium metabolism and bone mass in female rabbits during skeletal maturation: effects of dietary calcium intake
Author links open overlay panel
S.A Norris 1 2
,
J.M Pettifor 2
,
D.A Gray 1
,
R Buffenstein 3
1
Department of Physiology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
2
MRC Mineral Metabolism Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of the Witwatersrand and Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
3
Department of Biology, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
Received 25 August 2000, Revised 1 March 2001, Accepted 1 March 2001, Available online 19 July 2001.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S8756328201004732
Calcium absorption

--
https://sci-hub.se/10.1136/vr.139.23.567

--

Calcium metabolism in rabbits ***
Author links open overlay panel
BSc(Hons), BVetMed, CertLAS, CertZooMed, MRCVS Sharon Redrobe 1
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1055937X06800071
https://sci-hub.se/https://doi.org/10.1053/saep.2002.125100

--

https://bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1136/vr.139.23.567#:~:text=The%20rabbit's%20unusual%20calcium%20metabolism,and%20dental%20disease%20in%20rabbits. Calcium

_
https://www.vin.com/apputil/content/defaultadv1.aspx?id=4516322&pid=11310
-

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1557506310001576#:~:text=The%20evaluation%20of%20the%20rabbit,examination%2C%20and%20diagnostic%20test%20results.

== 2004 Vitamin A toxicity and vitamin E deficiency in a rabbit colony https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15264766/==

==2003 Improvement in vitamin A status with consumption of dark-green vegetables - A bioavailability study in rabbits ==

Improvement in vitamin A status with consumption of dark-green vegetables - A bioavailability study in rabbits
March 2003 Nutrition Research 23(3):271-278
DOI:10.1016/S0271-5317(02)00497-9
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/247204855_Improvement_in_vitamin_A_status_with_consumption_of_dark-green_vegetables_-_A_bioavailability_study_in_rabbits

==2019 Rabbit Lifespan veterinary review in UK==

https://www.covetrus.co.uk/rvc-study-helps-to-fill-the-evidence-gap-on-uk-pet-rabbit-health/#:~:text=Male%20rabbits%20tend%20to%20live,years%20females%20live%20on%20average.

chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.rvc.ac.uk/Media/Default/VetCompass/210614%20Rabbit%20Infographic.pdf

Vet Rec. 2019 Sep 24;186(14):451. doi: 10.1136/vr.105592
Morbidity and mortality of domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) under primary veterinary care in England
Dan G O'Neill 1,✉, Hermien C Craven 1, David C Brodbelt 1, David B Church 2, Joanna Hedley 2
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7279133/

==An edition of Standard of perfection for rabbits, cavies, mice, rats, skin and fur bearing animals (1920)==
Standard of perfection for rabbits, cavies, mice, rats, skin and fur bearing animals.
by American Rabbit Breeders Association
https://openlibrary.org/works/OL13846046W/Standard_of_perfection_for_rabbits_cavies_mice_rats_skin_and_fur_bearing_animals?edition=ia%3Astandardofperfec00amer

==An edition of Standard of perfection for cavies .. (1922)==
Standard of perfection for cavies
by United cavy breeders association, inc
https://openlibrary.org/works/OL13846011W/Standard_of_perfection_for_cavies_..?edition=ia%3Astandardofperfec00unit

==Productive performance carcass traits and some physiological changes in rabbits Fed on acacia desert plants==
lamiaa asal https://www.academia.edu/7232224/Productive_performance_carcass_traits_and_some_physiological_changes_in_rabbits_Fed_on_acacia_desert_plants?email_work_card=title

==2002 - Berchiche et Kadi - CIHEAM - Kabyle rabbit : Rabbit genetic resources in Mediterranean countries==
https://www.academia.edu/27542137/2002_Berchiche_et_Kadi_CIHEAM_Kabyle_rabbit?email_work_card=title

==Productive and physiological responses of growing rabbits to dietary organic chromium addition " by Khaled ElKholy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/ODhGUmJ5bWNYbTVkd001QVo4dlJkWDkrSUloTWQ2T3lOdEFKMEVLaW1kOD0tLTNsM1hZK3JmaUJjQndmcURYMDBCSnc9PQ==--6932f7d9a99480c24fbfff32eea584a3d492f60b/t/sPPdN-QbCFcV8-bkc1x/resource/work/5992468/Productive_and_physiological_responses_of_growing_rabbits_to_dietary_organic_chromium_addition?email_work_card=title

==EFFECT OF USING SOME LOCAL SOURCES OF PROTEIN ON PRODUCTIVE AND REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF RABBITS" by Ibrahim abaza==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OHJlN2lBRG9sMm9kNUhPK3l4OHNOVUZINWZmNzRmRStkeE04WjRyNUJPWT0tLVVML25SN2dObnBSTU9xMGdobzZtQ0E9PQ==--3d57218328ba0accb2f5047f23dea2fa88fba37b/t/sPPdN-Qbvxwv1-bsRBN/resource/work/5108325/EFFECT_OF_USING_SOME_LOCAL_SOURCES_OF_PROTEIN_ON_PRODUCTIVE_AND_REPRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

==Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MlRrZ3RBNW02MFNJNlRub0JuSGthdTdjdUdCTm15N1dMK21WKy83ZmlQST0tLUkzYlpNblY5UmdIRXh0UWRkSTNiZEE9PQ==--bfd396acfbdfcbfecd61e7e6d3a6015fafb9c382/t/sPPdN-QbgkmV1-zWseY/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

==Rabbits Productive, Reproductive and Physiological Traits as Affected by Drinking Saline Water: A Review" by Dr Khalid Mahrose==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/WUtibTJKaUV0LzNtWGZ6Mk84eDl5OUk4NGxGVkd2U0dVNXArM3hOOXY1ND0tLVdOUUNjdTcxckpLTlcxVjRSRGpvZFE9PQ==--db0d1151254b325cd83e664e19440936125de4f8/t/sPPdN-QaUT6vM-Kukhw/resource/work/32043630/Rabbits_Productive_Reproductive_and_Physiological_Traits_as_Affected_by_Drinking_Saline_Water_A_Review?email_work_card=title

==Evidence-Based Rabbit Housing and Nutrition==
https://sci-hub.se/10.1016/j.cvex.2017.04.006 CURRENTLY REVIEWING.

=drop all links under review here =

Rabbit pain scale and related articles :

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/230834598_Evaluation_of_EMLA_Cream_for_Preventing_Pain_during_Tattooing_of_Rabbits_Changes_in_Physiological_Behavioural_and_Facial_Expression_Responses

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8195426/#:~:text=The%20Rabbit%20Grimace%20Scale%20(RbtGS,and%202%20is%20extreme%20pain.

The Rabbit Grimace Scale (RbtGS) is a pain scale specifically designed for rabbits [4]. The RbtGS relies on five facial indicators (Orbital tightening, Cheek flattening, Nostril shape, Whisker shape and position, and Ear shape and position) each on a 0–2 scale; where 0 is no pain and 2 is extreme pain. The RbtGS is easy to use, although some of the facial indicators such as whisker position may be difficult to assess [5]. Moreover, it has been developed based on a breed of straight-eared rabbits, common in laboratories. This can be a limiting factor when used in a clinical setting as lop-eared rabbits currently comprise the majority of the cases treated in UK veterinary practices [6].

4.Keating SCJ, Thomas AA, Flecknell PA, Leach MC. Evaluation of EMLA Cream for Preventing Pain during Tattooing of Rabbits: Changes in Physiological, Behavioural and Facial Expression Responses. Plos One. 2012;7(9):11. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0044437

5.Hedenqvist P, Trbakovic A, Thor A, Ley C, Ekman S, Jensen-Waern M. Carprofen neither reduces postoperative facial expression scores in rabbits treated with buprenorphine nor alters long term bone formation after maxillary sinus grafting. Research in Veterinary Science. 2016;107:123–31. doi: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2016.05.010

6. O’Neill DG, Craven HC, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Hedley J. Morbidity and mortality of domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) under primary veterinary care in England. Veterinary Record. 2020;186(14):8. doi: 10.1136/vr.105592

The development and use of facial grimace scales for pain measurement in animals
Jeffrey S Mogil et al. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2020 Sep.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32682741/

Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews
Volume 116, September 2020, Pages 480-493
The development and use of facial grimace scales for pain measurement in animals
Author links open overlay panelJeffrey S. Mogil a, Daniel S.J. Pang b, Gabrielle Guanaes Silva Dutra a, Christine T. Chambers c
a
Depts. of Psychology and Anesthesia, Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
b
Veterinary Clinical and Diagnostic Services, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
c
Dept. of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
Received 10 April 2020, Revised 25 June 2020, Accepted 14 July 2020, Available online 16 July 2020, Version of Record 24 July 2020

links to all studies where pain scale used

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/11/11/3263 Anthropomorphism and Its Adverse Effects on the Distress and Welfare of Companion Animals

https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/soc/sociology/research/projects/isc/shapinginterspeciesconnectedness/interspeciesconnectedness/news/blog?newsItem=8a1785d76b2d9d33016b4109d06c1d58
https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/BTEC-Higher-Nationals/Animal-Management/2018/specification-sample-assessment/btec-hn-animal-management-specification.pdf

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339129322_Physical_and_chemical_characteristics_of_rabbit_complete_pellet_feed_containing_different_level_of_leucaena_leaf_meal

https://www.biologycorner.com/2020/03/19/genetics-lop-ears/
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jeb.12938
https://academic.oup.com/mbe/article/28/6/1801/1066858
https://faculty.uca.edu/benw/biol1400/practiceprobsans.htm
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/11/1/373/htm
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0065266008600966

=CAN'T FIND IT.. HA SA PAYWALL=
https://www.quora.com/How-do-I-access-ScienceDirect-research-papers-without-paying
https://sci-hub.se

=researchers whose methodology has been called into question =

Michael Woodruff (inducing immobility through abuse)

M Clauss.

_______________________________________________________

dump of comments to be expanded on in own articles:

..... rabbit on a protein deprivation diet.... then you leech out what little is left with too much hay and peas.....

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/SELF-SUSTAINING-RABBIT-PROJECTS-%3A-A-PILOT-STUDY-OF-Lukefahr-Schuster/83afd5140b3a3ca5111431653f9ab1b5caab62af

Carmel
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27529988/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5555282/

Rabbit Feeding Guide

2025-08-27T16:00:54Z

BCAdmin:

= Introduction =

If you search online, you’ll repeatedly find the claim that rabbits should have diets consisting of 80% hay or even an all-hay diet. This recommendation largely originates from the House Rabbit Society (HRS), an extreme animal rights organization that has promoted this 80% hay diet and associated messaging for decades. Oxbow Animal Health, a major supplier of rabbit food, partners with HRS and provides funding, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

For over 20 years, the House Rabbit Society has engaged with soon-to-be exotic animal veterinarians (DVMs), offering support to help them start their practices focused on rabbits. This relationship has resulted in many veterinarians adopting HRS-influenced care practices, which include the widely promoted 80% hay diet. Consequently, this diet recommendation has become entrenched despite significant flaws.

If you review rabbit care guidelines from major universities such as Purdue, UC Davis, Colorado State University, and Washington State University, you’ll notice HRS’s influence in their citations and fine print. This is reflected in feeding recommendations on Oxbow product packaging, which dominate the pet rabbit market. The resulting proliferation of this diet advice has perpetuated misinformation.

An important historical note: in the 1990s, the House Rabbit Society conflated care advice for rabbits and cavies (guinea pigs), even suggesting they could share diets and housing. When it became clear that cavies and rabbits can transmit diseases to each other , HRS retracted the cohabitation advice—but never revisited or corrected their dietary stance for rabbits.

Further scrutiny reveals that much of the 80% hay diet recommendation traces back to a single book co-authored by Susan Brown and Jeff Jenkins titled *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets* (1993). This book, difficult to obtain today, was frequently cited by HRS and related groups as a definitive source for the hay-first diet. However, more recent research by F. Lebas and others has discredited the outdated nutritional guidance in this book. The diet promoted therein fails to meet the minimum nutritional requirements for maintaining healthy rabbits.

Therefore, the House Rabbit Society is not a reliable source for rabbit care information. Their recommendations are often outdated or inaccurate and don’t always reflect current research. For trustworthy guidance, consult the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), the World Rabbit Congress, or reputable breeders ' organizations with access to the latest research and expertise.

One fundamental reason rabbits and cavies require different diets is their distinct gut microbiota, despite some anatomical similarities. A 2017 study by Crowley et al. using next-generation sequencing highlighted significant differences in the microbial populations between rabbits and guinea pigs, confirming that their digestive mechanisms differ substantially.

Furthermore, ARBA care guides, developed by a panel of veterinarians, recommend diets where pellets form the majority component, not hay. Supporting this, research comparing wild and domestic rabbits’ dental and digestive health found that hay is nutritionally poor and difficult to chew, often leading to malocclusion and periodontal disease caused by hay getting trapped between teeth. Wild rabbits are selective feeders, preferring high-nutrition fresh forage and resorting to dried grasses or hay only during starvation or severe winter conditions to survive.

== References ==
* Crowley EJ, King JM, Wilkinson T, Worgan HJ, Huson KM, Rose MT, McEwan NR. (2017). Comparison of the microbial population in rabbits and guinea pigs by next-generation sequencing. PLoS ONE 12(2): e0165779. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0165779
* Jenkins J., Brown S. (1993). *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets*. [Publisher info if available]
* [Link to ARBA Care Guides https://arba.net/arba-recommendations-for-the-care-of-rabbits-and-cavies/]
* [Link to World Rabbit Congress resources http://world-rabbit-science.com/]

= Pellet Feeding Recommendations =

[[File:RabbitFeeding-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Rabbits do best on a Complete Balanced Alfalfa Based Pellet. 16% protein, 15-20% Fiber.]]

The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recommends feeding a completely balanced pellet as the primary and main source of nutrition for domestic rabbits. When selecting a suitable pellet, it is important to use a baseline of approximately:

* 16% crude protein
* 18% crude fiber
* A grass or legume-based ingredient as the first listed component on the label

These specifications help ensure that your rabbits receive sufficient nutrients for maintenance, growth, and reproductive performance.

Most feeding guidelines recommend providing pellets twice daily, with the total daily amount equaling approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of the rabbit’s ideal adult body weight. Rabbits are crepuscular by nature—most active during dawn and dusk—with periods of rest and digestion during the day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would be fed roughly 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and another 5 ounces in the evening.

It is recommended that a completely balanced pellet constitute between 80% and 100% of a rabbit’s overall diet. This approach helps to ensure that the rabbit’s nutritional requirements are met in a consistent and controlled manner.

Fresh vegetables and greens should be limited to no more than one or two tablespoons total per day. These fresh plants are best used in small quantities for their supplemental or medicinal properties rather than as a primary nutrient source. Feeding excessive fresh fruits or vegetables can disrupt the delicate balance of the rabbit’s hindgut flora and motility, which may result in bacterial overgrowth, gastrointestinal stasis, and potentially fatal bloat.

== Why is Oxbow not recommended? ==

Oxbow is one of the most widely marketed rabbit pellet brands and is often promoted by the House Rabbit Society. However, Oxbow’s formulation tends to have lower protein levels and higher fiber content than what is considered optimal for rabbit health. While rabbits fed Oxbow pellets may survive, their long-term health and condition often suffer.

To put this in perspective, a rabbit’s diet must provide a minimum of 14% digestible protein energy (DE) to maintain condition and support normal metabolic functions. This generally translates to a feed containing about 16% crude protein on a dry matter (DM) basis. A pellet containing only 14% crude protein DM provides closer to 12% DE protein, which is barely enough to sustain life, let alone promote growth or healthy fur and muscle maintenance.

Rabbits consuming diets low in digestible protein often develop a flabby, wasted body condition and exhibit constant shedding or poor coat quality. In addition, fiber levels in the diet should not exceed approximately 22% to prevent the dilution of essential nutrients. If the protein content decreases, the fiber content should decrease proportionally. For example, an Oxbow formula with 14% crude protein and 25% fiber will have a further reduced bioavailability of essential nutrients, with only about 9% DE protein effectively available to the animal, leading to malnutrition and poor health outcomes.

For these reasons, feeds such as ADM Pen Pals 16%, which contains no whole or ground corn and is balanced for all life stages, are preferred. Other recommended brands or formulations include:

* Small World 16% by Manna Pro
* Kambalch 16%
* Rowe 16%
* Hienold Commercial or Wool Formula
* Pen Pals 16%

These recommended pellets are typically alfalfa-based and contain a minimum of 16% crude protein DM with fiber content ranging between 15% and 22%. It is also advisable to avoid feeds containing whole corn kernels, which provide poor-quality nutrition. However, corn distillers, which contain the protein-rich germ without the hull or starch, are acceptable as an ingredient.

== Nuanced Feeding Recommendations ==

=== Feeding Nursing and Pregnant Does ===

Nursing and pregnancy have significantly increased protein and energy requirements to support fetal growth and subsequent milk production. For the first two weeks of pregnancy, it is generally recommended to maintain the doe on a standard maintenance diet containing about 16% protein.

Starting in the third week of pregnancy, the diet should be gradually transitioned to a higher protein ratio, around 18%, to meet the increased nutritional demands. Once the doe has given birth and is nursing kits, she should be allowed free access to a high-quality 18% protein pellet to support continued milk production and recovery.

Several safe and effective feed additives can be included in the diet of nursing does to enhance milk yield. These include:

* Steam-rolled or traditional old-fashioned oats
* Calf manna
* Black oil sunflower seeds

These supplements should be offered in small quantities—generally half to one teaspoon per feeding—in a separate bowl to avoid contamination or waste of pellets.

Bananas (fruit only, no peel) can be offered to pregnant does in limited amounts to provide a natural source of potassium and sugars, which are beneficial during the late stages of fetal development. For nursing does, small amounts of banana peel can also be given, but care must be taken as the peel contains compounds that may induce uterine contractions. Therefore, banana peel should never be given to does before or during pregnancy but can be safely provided immediately after birth.

Additionally, Tums (either plain or fruit-flavored) can serve as a calcium supplement to nursing does. One or two Tums daily for the first few days postpartum can help boost calcium availability for milk production, with occasional supplementation continuing through the nursing period.

*Foods to avoid during pregnancy and nursing:*
** Plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae) should be avoided as they may dry up milk production. They can be given to does only after litter loss or post-weaning when drying up the doe.
** Banana peel must be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential to induce contractions, but it is safe after kindling.

=== Feeding Weanling Rabbits (8 to 20 weeks) ===

Weanlings are in a rapid growth phase and require a diet higher in protein to support development. They should be fed a complete pellet containing between 17% and 20% protein and given free access to ensure adequate intake.

=== Feeding Adult Non-Producing Rabbits ===

Adult rabbits not involved in breeding, gestation, or lactation have more moderate nutritional requirements. Protein levels between 15% and 17% are generally sufficient, provided the pellet contains a minimum of 15% fiber.

Pellets for non-producing adults can be based on timothy or alfalfa hay. Avoid pellets with a grain-based ingredient list, as these are less suitable for optimal rabbit health.

Daily intake guidelines remain at approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of ideal body weight, divided into two feedings per day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would receive approximately 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and 5 ounces in the evening.

=== Conditioning Show Rabbits ===

[[File:FINISHING MIX-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Diet can be amended for different life stages and for special conditioning]]

Show rabbits often require specialized dietary adjustments depending on the life stage or conditioning goals. Some common dietary supplements used to optimize coat quality, muscle tone, and digestive health include:

* **Coat Finishers:** Supplements rich in vitamin E and fat are often used to improve coat luster and texture. Black oil sunflower seeds (BOS) are a popular natural source of these nutrients.
* **Muscle and Flesh Conditioners:** Protein boosters such as whey powder, rolled oats, and barley may be added to the diet to promote muscle development and firmness of flesh, particularly before shows.
* **Digestive Aids:** Enzymatic supplements like papaya enzyme powder assist in nutrient absorption and can help break down ingested wool or fur during shedding seasons.
* **Fiber Supplements:** Small amounts of grass hays and beet pulp shreds can be offered to support gut motility and health. However, be mindful that beet pulp can be high in sugars, so quantities should be kept small. Shredded plain pumpkin is also used as a mild fiber supplement and digestive aid.

= Other Feed Additives =

== Proteins ==
Rabbits require adequate protein for maintenance, growth, and reproduction. While maintenance feeds with 12%-15% protein can sustain non-producing rabbits, a balanced ration containing around 16% protein produces better overall health and condition. Providing a single feed with sufficient protein for all life stages is often easier for management.

* Corn Distillers: Do not confuse whole or cracked corn with corn distillers, which are the protein-rich remnants after fermentation removes sugars. Sugars promote harmful bacterial overgrowth leading to bloat and GI stasis, so avoiding whole corn kernels is critical.

* Soybean: Studies show soybean is a superior protein source compared to cowpea or pigeon pea for growing rabbits. Cowpea varieties with high tannin content may harm kidneys and are not recommended as sole protein sources.

== Fat ==
Fats provide concentrated energy and are important for coat and skin health. Common fat sources include oils and black oil sunflower seeds, which also supply essential fatty acids and vitamin E.

== Carbohydrates ==
Carbohydrates provide energy, but care must be taken to avoid simple sugars that disrupt gut flora.

* Corn: Whole or cracked corn kernels should never be fed to rabbits. However, certain corn by-products (like corn distillers) are acceptable when used correctly.

* Oats and Beet Pulp Shreds: These are common carbohydrate sources that also provide some fiber.

== Fiber ==
Fiber is crucial for maintaining healthy digestive motility and preventing gut disorders. The quality and particle size of fiber directly influence gut health and immune function.

* Excessively high fiber (>25% Acid Detergent Fiber) dilutes dietary energy and reduces growth rates because rabbits cannot consume enough feed to compensate.

* Studies indicate that fiber particle size affects mortality, immunity, and gut bacteria populations in rabbits, with heterogeneous particle sizes increasing lignin content and digestive stress.

Common fiber sources include timothy hay and beet pulp shreds, which help maintain optimal gut function.

== Enzymes ==
Enzymatic supplements can aid digestion, especially during periods of stress or dietary transition. These include papaya enzyme and other proteolytic enzymes.

== Supplements ==
Additional supplements may be used to address specific nutritional needs or to support reproductive performance, coat condition, or digestive health. These are best used judiciously and tailored to the animal's life stage and condition.

== Notes and References ==
* See detailed reviews on fiber digestion and its effects on rabbit health (Gidenne 1996, De Blas 1999, Licois & Gidenne 1999, Bennegadi et al. 2000).
* Particle size and fiber content significantly affect mortality, immune response, and gut bacterial populations (source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108).
* Avoid feeding whole or cracked corn kernels; use corn distillers cautiously.

== Common Types of Hay and Their Nutritional Profiles ==

=== Timothy Hay (Phleum pratense L.) ===
* Protein: ~3–13.8% DM (varies with storage and age)
* Fiber: ~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7–10.9% DM

Timothy hay is popular for fiber supplementation but cannot support adult rabbits alone due to low protein and energy digestibility. Its lysine content is low, meeting only about 70% of growing rabbits' needs. Calcium content is low (~0.33%), which can be either advantageous or limiting depending on the overall diet.

=== Alfalfa Hay (Medicago sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~18.3% DM
* Fiber: ~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~4.5% DM

Alfalfa is highly palatable and widely used as a fiber and protein source. It promotes digestive motility and caecal flora balance. Inclusion recommendations vary but typically fall between 20–40%. High inclusion levels (>80%) have shown mortality reduction in some studies but may risk calcium overload in adults. Protein digestibility is moderate, limiting support for very rapid growth.

=== Red Clover Hay ===
* Protein: ~18.7% DM
* Fiber: ~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa up to 30% without adverse effects on growth or mortality.

=== Oat Forage (Avena sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~9.1% DM
* Fiber: ~34% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===
Includes timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermuda grass.

* Typically high fiber, low protein, vitamins, and minerals compared to legumes.
* Nutritional content varies widely by species and harvest conditions.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===
* Combines benefits of legumes (protein, minerals) and grasses (fiber).
* Balanced mixes (e.g., 1/3 grass to 2/3 legume) optimize nutrition and yield.

=== Bermuda Grass (Cynodon dactylon Pers.) ===
* Protein: ~9.8% DM
* Fiber: ~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~0.8% DM

=Rabbit Snacks and Treats =

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Recipes_to_Make_Treats_For_Rabbits Recipe page:]

= Debunked Studies Whose Information Is Still Used as “Evidence” for House Rabbit Society Propaganda =

=== Preference of rabbits for drinking from open dishes versus nipple drinkers ===
*Tschudin, A; Clauss, M; Codron, D; Hatt, J-M.*
*The Veterinary Record; London Vol. 168, Iss. 7 (Feb 19, 2011): 190*
\[[https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar\&cbl=2041027\&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ](https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2041027&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ)]

This study has been widely discredited and subsequently removed from platforms like ResearchGate and PubMed. The primary reason is the extremely small sample size: only **12 dwarf rabbits total**, which is insufficient to draw any meaningful, statistically valid conclusions. Despite this, the study’s findings are still sometimes cited as if they were definitive proof of rabbits’ drinking preferences, which is misleading.
---

=== Questionable Sources on House Rabbit Society (HRS) Care Pages ===

The House Rabbit Society care pages cite **three main sources** at the bottom of their nutrition and care articles. However, none of these sources provide peer-reviewed research or studies specifically supporting their claims. Instead, the citations lean heavily on credentials or opinion pieces with no empirical backing:

* Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison
* Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health
* Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

---

=== Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D. — University of Wisconsin-Madison ===
\[[https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan\_Smith\_CV.pdf](https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan_Smith_CV.pdf) CV]

Dr. Smith served on the House Rabbit Society’s National Board of Directors from 2002 to 2010 and has presented at their conferences and written lay opinion articles. Yet, she has no published research on rabbits and no peer-reviewed work on rabbit nutrition or health. Her rabbit involvement appears limited solely to her HRS board role. However:

* She has **no published research studies involving rabbits**.
* No peer-reviewed papers on rabbit nutrition or health.
* Her rabbit-related involvement appears to be exclusively as part of the HRS board.

This fact underscores the HRS’s own stance: they are primarily an activist organization, not a science-based authority. By using Dr. Smith’s academic title to back their advice without supporting research, HRS highlights their reliance on advocacy over rigorous scientific evidence.

---

=== Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA — Oxbow Animal Health ===

Dr. Kohles co-authored a study titled:
*“The Effect of Feed Form on Diet Digestibility and Cecal Parameters in Rabbits”* (December 2017)
[[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593\_The\_Effect\_of\_Feed\_Form\_on\_Diet\_Digestibility\_and\_Cecal\_Parameters\_in\_Rabbits](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593_The_Effect_of_Feed_Form_on_Diet_Digestibility_and_Cecal_Parameters_in_Rabbits)]

Key issues with this study:

* Sample size of **only 15 New Zealand rabbits**, divided into three groups of five.
* Experimental period followed a 45-day acclimation plus 30-day feeding trial.
* The study compared pelleted, extruded, and muesli diets (pelleted diet at only 14% protein).
* Findings were inconsistent depending on the digestibility estimation method used.
* Authors concluded diet composition mattered more than form, but results were inconclusive.

Despite this, Oxbow Animal Health, where Dr. Kohles works as VP of Technical Services and Research, is cited by the HRS as a major authority on rabbit nutrition. However, this study’s limited scope and contradictory results do not strongly support sweeping dietary recommendations.

---

=== Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal) ===

Dr. Fisher has authored a few opinion-based articles related to rabbit gastrointestinal disease, but these do **not** provide scientific data supporting nutritional claims cited by the House Rabbit Society. Examples include:

* [Gastrointestinal disease in ferrets and rabbits (Proceedings)](https://www.dvm360.com/view/gastrointestinal-disease-ferrets-and-rabbits-proceedings)
Focuses on gastrointestinal diseases and parasites causing bloat, but contains no diet-related research.

In his *Rabbit Medicine Overview* proceedings, Dr. Fisher briefly addresses rabbit nutrition with advice that reads more like a product promotion than a rigorous scientific review. The section:

* Lacks any supporting research citations, unlike other well-referenced sections of the paper.
* Provides general recommendations consistent with standard rabbit dietary advice but without backing data or critical analysis.

Key points from Fisher’s nutrition section:

* Emphasizes the importance of a diet high in fiber (20-25%) with low starch and balanced protein levels to maintain gastrointestinal health.
* Recommends a maintenance feeding guideline of roughly **1 ounce of high-fiber pellets per kilogram of body weight**, plus **ad libitum access to grass hays** such as timothy, oat, orchard grass, or meadow hay.
* Suggests pellets should be over 20% fiber and below 16% protein—specifications that conveniently match the nutrient profile of Oxbow’s own pellet products.
* Advocates feeding fresh leafy greens as enrichment and as a tool to monitor appetite in rabbits suspected of gastrointestinal stasis.
* Specifically promotes *Oxbow Critical Care for Herbivores* as an excellent syringe-fed nutritional support for anorexic rabbits.

**Critique:**

* The absence of any cited research undermines the credibility of these recommendations, making them appear anecdotal or opinion-based rather than evidence-driven.
* The nutrition advice aligns closely with Oxbow’s product line, raising conflict-of-interest concerns.
* No discussion is offered on alternative feeding strategies, potential risks of exclusive pellet feeding, or critical evaluation of fiber sources and digestibility.
* This section does not address recent research on rabbit nutrition that highlights risks of low-fiber diets or “salad-only” feeding regimes, nor does it reconcile the complexity of fiber types and particle size in rabbit gut health.

In summary, while the nutrition overview provides a superficially reasonable framework for rabbit diets, it falls short of scientific rigor and transparency. Its implicit promotion of Oxbow products further questions the independence of the advice offered.

* [Thinking of adding exotic mammals to your case load? (Proceedings)](https://www.dvm360.com/view/thinking-adding-exotic-mammals-your-case-load-equipment-needs-proceedings)
Reads like a marketing pitch for Oxbow Animal Health products rather than independent scientific guidance. The article by Dr. Peter G. Fisher does not provide detailed original research or deep nutritional information on rabbits either.

===Here’s what it does regarding nutrition ===

*Mentions inappropriate feeding practices as a common problem in exotic mammals, including rabbits.

*Advises vets to have exotic mammal diets on hand (naming commercial brands like Oxbow, Zupreem, Mazuri) to help clients start dietary changes.

*Suggests keeping fresh leafy greens available as examples and for appetite testing.

*Recommends Oxbow Critical Care for nutritional support of anorexic rabbits.

*Emphasizes the importance of client education on nutrition but doesn’t cite specific studies or give detailed feeding guidelines.

In other words, the nutrition coverage is very general, clinical, and product-oriented, mostly about what vets should stock or recommend, rather than presenting any primary research or independent nutritional analysis.

This article is more about veterinary practice setup, equipment, diagnostics, and handling exotic mammals, with a small section acknowledging diet importance but no rigorous evidence or data. It reads like a practical veterinary guide with vendor references, not a scientific nutrition paper.

---

### Summary of Issues with HRS Nutrition Sources:

* No peer-reviewed studies are cited in their nutrition advice.
* Two of the cited veterinarians (Fisher and Kohles) have only authored opinion pieces or small-sample studies that do not substantiate the claims made.
* Dr. Susan Smith lacks any published rabbit research.
* Some referenced studies by these vets actually support the use of complete, balanced pellets over “salads” or low-fiber, high-fermentable-carb diets—which the HRS article fails to emphasize or mention.
* The overall impression is that the House Rabbit Society’s nutritional guidance is **not based on rigorous science** but on opinion and marketing interests.

---

### Additional Reference on Feed Components:

Nutritive value of pine sawdust (used sometimes as bedding or feed additive):

* Crude Protein (CP): 1.8 to 3.5 g/100g
* Crude Fiber (CF): 39.5 to 74.0 g/100g

For comparison, Timothy hay typically contains:

* CP: \~3 g/100g
* CF: \~28 g/100g

[[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834\_NUTRITIVE\_VALUE\_OF\_SAWDUST](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834_NUTRITIVE_VALUE_OF_SAWDUST)]

=Feed Related Studies=

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Researchlinks#REFLECTIONS_ON_RABBIT_NUTRITION_WITH_A_SPECIAL_EMPHASIS_ON_FEED_INGREDIENTS_UTILIZATION Research Links ]

[https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding Rabbit Tracks: Feeds and Feeding April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension] 
Received: 23 May 2021 / Revised: 12 July 2021 / Accepted: 12 July 2021 / Published: 14 July 2021

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health] 
August 2013

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Effects of Rocket Seed Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, and Their Mixture on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Digestibility, Redox Status, and Meat Fatty Acid Profile of Growing Rabbits] 
April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION RECENT RESEARCH ADVANCES IN RABBIT NUTRITION] 
December 2000

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization Reflections on rabbit nutrition with a special emphasis on feed ingredients utilization] 
January 2004

==Feed related==

Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition
[https://www.academia.edu/8592261/Nutrition_of_the_Rabbit_Second_Edition?email_work_card=title Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition]
Mohammad Rifky

rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding

Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health==
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health

https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION

https://www.vetfolio.com/learn/article/nutrition-know-how-pet-rabbit-nutrition

General Feed Supplements

EFFECT OF DIETARY SELENIUM ENRICHED MICRO-ALGAE SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANTI- OXIDATIVE STATUS OF RABBITS UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IN SUMMER SEASON" by mohamed basyony===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/QllhK1c5L1FDbkFwNEdTNkY4UDI3QnpOTGlCSTRtQ0lNd1V5QTBKVWk2RT0tLXVVQjVtOEVNUm9ZQkIzOEZmY3orSWc9PQ==--c79ce43255800522b842d0c8be4f1a102ba46aaf/t/sPPdN-Qp4b4Q1-bhRvi1/resource/work/21619748/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_SELENIUM_ENRICHED_MICRO_ALGAE_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_AND_ANTI_OXIDATIVE_STATUS_OF_RABBITS_UNDER_HIGH_AMBIENT_TEMPERATURE_IN_SUMMER_SEASON?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Rk9LdEk3cUt6aDQwdEUvK0dPaHhvUkRVRk5iUzdlV05WelVvS3prZkJGdz0tLWZZRFZWUGN3N2ZNTTBFOU4zRElqQ0E9PQ==--bd7de4edfce98920e93a0b1c5d01a3591f51cc78/t/sPPdN-Qdcm7Pe-p67QM/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Effect of Zinc Supplementation on some Physiological and Growth Traits in Local Male Rabbit" by World's Veterinary Journal Editor===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UzR2b3BhSVl6QjFMeTk5bjR1dXQxYTNhZXBwQUh2UncxdFNBUVVjZkRoMD0tLTIrY1NFWVBnU05mWnNwZlFPUTlrM3c9PQ==--7ad74ccf2d833f46a06ba9dcf8a6f6d63038c707/t/sPPdN-QfnHV4z-kQ1wm/resource/work/32956665/Effect_of_Zinc_Supplementation_on_some_Physiological_and_Growth_Traits_in_Local_Male_Rabbit?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 1. Response of Growing Rabbits to DietsHamed A.A. Omer, AbdEl-Maged A. Abedo, Sawsan M. Ahmed, Azza M.M. Badrand Mervat S.M. HasaninLife Science..." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEd0VnRmek51ZDdkNlJBSVhaUlBmV1F1ekFPRUdKTUR3RjczdnVCVSs3MD0tLW1WVGgvc3M2aTdFUURKV2MwOXAwQ3c9PQ==--8aaaec6b132b8e0db8dc46fab39fe4e45b811b1b/t/sPPdN-Qgz1jJD-HxeW0/resource/work/8539516/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_1_Response_of_Growing_Rabbits_to_DietsHamed_A_A_Omer_AbdEl_Maged_A_Abedo_Sawsan_M_Ahmed_Azza_M_M_Badrand_Mervat_S_M_HasaninLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_4_?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 2. Influence of Flaxseeds Levels Supplementations on Blood Constituents, Carcass Characteristics and Fatty Acids Profile." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UThubG0wTEgrc1BKeEFnT3pycEF1OUxwVHZ6S1RGcVd1SkErVThPQnZqMD0tLXV5ZW5LVitIT0NhdDYvZnFuVWJlRlE9PQ==--4d0a1cc52d355dfd197363aa7fa6dc86b45cdf4a/t/sPPdN-QgG9ADH-bbjVAv/resource/work/12250987/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_2_Influence_of_Flaxseeds_Levels_Supplementations_on_Blood_Constituents_Carcass_Characteristics_and_Fatty_Acids_Profile?email_work_card=title

Agronomy: "Growth Performance and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients of Weaned Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Forms of Cocoa Pod Husk Meal" by Asian Online Journal Publishing Group===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L3IzQTZDNUVZWUF2NEwvZDV1Wkp0ZU52TU1meHJIY1dXYkt3UXU4T3E5UT0tLUl3SW9lQ0RZU3NhMjAwNjhIWWY3Y3c9PQ==--a3f206fa63664368e8bfde6eebd8f9470a3bdb2a/t/sPPdN-QpF3kHw-bqigTi/resource/work/35848207/Growth_Performance_and_Apparent_Nutrient_Digestibility_Coefficients_of_Weaned_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Forms_of_Cocoa_Pod_Husk_Meal?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF CHAMOMILE FLOWERS AS FEED ADDITIVE ON SOME BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS FOR GROWING RABBITS" by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YjZsSmVsM3AxM2F4enBmNkU5KzRuTVo2cFJKdUlDY3hVMGJSMDVRS2pwND0tLVN1V3FvTHc5MnI0NXFVbjBuQ1hnYUE9PQ==--3b3eadef9f6ebfe96bfa15eea7a3dfae8e494a31/t/sPPdN-Qpjmi1D-bdz6oo/resource/work/9329672/EFFECT_OF_CHAMOMILE_FLOWERS_AS_FEED_ADDITIVE_ON_SOME_BIOLOGICAL_PARAMETERS_FOR_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

The Nutritive Value of Zornia glochidiata as a Non-conventional Feedstuff in Rabbit in Sokoto, Nigeria" by Ndudim Ogo===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aUFMWjBISEJNMHVKZ080NjR5TGErcXpJRzJMelp0U0JtamU4Y2lvRFpJUT0tLVA2dEFmL0hEcGg0SFV2TG1teVlFaWc9PQ==--622e2baee790f8efb1144e9240ed1ada4b3fe5c8/t/sPPdN-QnogdXn-bc1HPX/resource/work/18711695/The_Nutritive_Value_of_Zornia_glochidiata_as_a_Non_conventional_Feedstuff_in_Rabbit_in_Sokoto_Nigeria?email_work_card=title

Performance of rabbits fed diets with varying concentrate and fodder ratio in north eastern region of Tripura" by Asit Chakrabarti===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MGIycnE2am5lK09CbkEzWnluM1JtaFFjNlk0UVUxSGpQTXNWTE1hS2VYZz0tLWsrdFc5bElVOHcyYmVzWkhrQmRSMVE9PQ==--5b5a30c634eeea396188f5f96e29e2476dd5cdd6/t/sPPdN-QmEt7ei-AvMTB/resource/work/39725417/Performance_of_rabbits_fed_diets_with_varying_concentrate_and_fodder_ratio_in_north_eastern_region_of_Tripura?email_work_card=title

Various Legume as feed and feed supplements

Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits" by Donald Chisowa===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SWR6b1dLWFNBb3pxbFh3VXNCUmxjWnFuV0hac1JuMnhjVERWUzh3djYwOD0tLTdwcXJ2VmJ1UTFTa0p5TzBCUFdlb1E9PQ==--e17ca3b4f9f183f27b84e94a67e75efe6ebf36f4/t/sPPdN-QoQRVXM-WNtJE/resource/work/11351185/Evaluation_of_soybean_Glycine_max_cowpea_Vigna_unguiculata_and_pigeon_pea_Cajanus_cajan_as_sole_sources_of_proteins_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Hamed A.A Omerand Azza M.M. Badr.Growth Performance of New Zealand White Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Pea StrawLife Science Journal 2013;10(2)" by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/U2pZNE5LYmdLY2NleXppeDhCb2owd2YxZ0FDNWJub2IzNmNsM0ZCNlpIQT0tLU51UHBhN3JGQ0ZmOWJYclJTdWRKNkE9PQ==--429eb979b597c8159c3230f2bb5e087f0b6765ca/t/sPPdN-QcSQb5L-bxcsdM/resource/work/8539260/Hamed_A_A_Omerand_Azza_M_M_Badr_Growth_Performance_of_New_Zealand_White_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Levels_of_Pea_StrawLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_2_?email_work_card=title

Effect of Chemical Composition of Alfalfa Hay on Several . Digestive Measurements in Growing Rabbits" by Rosa Carabaño===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/VldVYTkrN3FQVmVjZzBlT0tPSXFNN3lJWks5a0JDbSs2Nm0vWk5yNTAvZz0tLThQaE85MTc3Vlo2YmdwVSsrTFpJdWc9PQ==--90cc8df7accb7e7757b217e27490b7698e7cf5a0/t/sPPdN-Qa9cnMB-B2d8N/resource/work/24812249/Effect_of_Chemical_Composition_of_Alfalfa_Hay_on_Several_Digestive_Measurements_in_Growing_Rabbits?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF FEEDING OLIVE CAKE SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT BENTONITE ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aGhEa0Y3MXpTUm9QK0g4NS8rbGVZTmwyL3Q2Wmd1bFh0VzhhYTFkR1lGTT0tLWdvNlFRT0hhcEowVy9ESGpQTFplTHc9PQ==--e954ae63b78666fe8b6026136d1caa841a3244e7/t/sPPdN-QaECJQk-baz1zi/resource/work/36496594/EFFECT_OF_FEEDING_OLIVE_CAKE_SUPPLEMENTED_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_BENTONITE_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BLOOD COMPONENTS AND SLAUGHTER TRAITS OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE MALE GROWING RABBITS AS AFFECTED BY DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH CALCIUM, SODIUM OR POTASSIUM, IN SUB-TROPICAL EGYPT" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat== https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SU9MMGRUSEhLWGlNT20zaXdkTXEyUjJYYWlFaDI2RHRqNnZtYXF1Z1d6WT0tLUphSHIxRlRRbUZQQituR25Gc0dkK2c9PQ==--841cf9236890a2487e4a977273720546ef9a32dc/t/sPPdN-QaqqFUB-nAEXb/resource/work/12692254/GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_BLOOD_COMPONENTS_AND_SLAUGHTER_TRAITS_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_MALE_GROWING_RABBITS_AS_AFFECTED_BY_DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTATION_WITH_CALCIUM_SODIUM_OR_POTASSIUM_IN_SUB_TROPICAL_EGYPT?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/NHFKYlphcXg4VWNzZGVkSDVmVVFXYXlqOCtHSEVrd3RLN0NQN2xDZFZwYz0tLVVFcFpIZE9zV3pEWWRkU1Z5N09JcUE9PQ==--b6e433ce56d2392549ee5b405d73fa8c16e303ff/t/sPPdN-QaifWu2-bfmPBZ/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Influence of dietary benzoic acid addition on nutrient digestibility and selected biochemical parameters in fattening rabbits" by K. Fegeros==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/b2lheWJTUWNnUEVBTG5Ddm1YamhzSDQySGNZd0k1TVV1aE1ldmFVR1RGVT0tLUNLSk5MYmlvYW1kN29STUUzSCtPelE9PQ==--917462902d2600191af2d70536465a40bd316be4/t/sPPdN-QepHj7D-VtVZd/resource/work/30474431/Influence_of_dietary_benzoic_acid_addition_on_nutrient_digestibility_and_selected_biochemical_parameters_in_fattening_rabbits?email_work_card=title

COMMERCIAL ENZYMES

EFFECT OF USING COMMERCIAL ENZYMES TO IMPROVE DIETS CONTAINED PEANUT HAY ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by Fathy Atta===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OUJlVHFVTHozWlFQYW9idGdPUmJSUHJFZElZdGRXR3Fpc04rZU41N1IrZz0tLXlWY2FhdldaTll1Y1AwbEpxczAxbXc9PQ==--e16599d129e829b7da7a4ca4d6c379ce72e7532b/t/sPPdN-QeUbKK9-bxtmgk/resource/work/7230460/EFFECT_OF_USING_COMMERCIAL_ENZYMES_TO_IMPROVE_DIETS_CONTAINED_PEANUT_HAY_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

RESPONSE OF GROWING RABBITS TO DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF WHEAT SCREENING BY-PRODUCT WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION " by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bGpGeEkrdzZ3NE5PU2hKYUNZdmRQN1JMYjdqMU51RGc0clRmTStHTVhwbz0tLTF5bnhHY0V1TUxLNnZrR1N1WmdmVVE9PQ==--e42c63ee99bdc464d47fa63c8decab24ae97b4fb/t/sPPdN-Qc5erQc-bhct0a/resource/work/5108323/RESPONSE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_TO_DIETS_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_WHEAT_SCREENING_BY_PRODUCT_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_ENZYME_SUPPLEMENTATION?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF DIETARY CORN COBS AND ENZYMES SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWING RABBITS PERFORMANCE===
https://www.academia.edu/8019560/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_CORN_COBS_AND_ENZYMES_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWING_RABBITS_PERFORMANCE?email_work_card=title
Ibrahim abaza

EFFECT OF ENZYMES AND PROBIOTIC MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION TO THE DIET OF GROWING FEMALE RABBITS ON PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CRITERIA" by Mohamed El-Sagheer===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bFNjQ1hweHdXMU5jZStuaTVwR0FNMEl2S2FHYzNLa2twOExReE9oeU9OVT0tLUQ5RXdoNElpYzlpUGJCK0hmMnhseVE9PQ==--05cb9b9a585550db2c1c6d59abe3c29322dc3ee1/t/sPPdN-QaMLryt-K4jEZ/resource/work/11938475/EFFECT_OF_ENZYMES_AND_PROBIOTIC_MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION_TO_THE_DIET_OF_GROWING_FEMALE_RABBITS_ON_PERFORMANCE_AND_CARCASS_CRITERIA?email_work_card=title

REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION
[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION]
" REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION LEBAS F. Cuniculture, 87a Chemin de Lassère, 31450 Corronsac, France lebas@cuniculture.info ABSTRACT In this invited communication the author proposes a list of nutritional recommendations for rabbits of different categories: growing from 18 to 42 days, from 42 to 80 days, for breeding does according to productivity (40-50 kits weaned per doe/year or more than 50) and for a single diet suitable for all rabbits. Recommendations taking account the last published data, are divided in 2 groups. The first corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to feed efficiency: digestible energy, crude and digestible protein, amino acids, minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins. The second group corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to nutritive security and digestive health: different fibre components (lignins, cellulose, hemicelluloses) and their equilibrium, starch and water soluble vitamins. In a second part, 387 papers published during the last 30 years on raw material utilisation in rabbit feeding were analysed. In a total of 14 tables, the 542 corresponding experiments were summarised each by the identification of the raw material, by the highest level of incorporation used in the experiment, by the highest acceptable level, by the main ingredient(s) replaced by the raw material studied, and finally by the authors reference. Raw materials studied were those used in temperate as well as in tropical countries. The raw material were grouped according to the following categories : raw material used as single food (24 experiments), cereals and by-products (43 exp.), other carbohydrates source of energy (62 exp.), fats (27 exp.), full-fat oleaginous grains (10 exp.), oil cakes and meals (43 exp.), proteic seeds such peas or beans (42 exp.), miscellaneous sources of protein such yeast or leaf protein (18 exp.), animal products (21 exp.), non-protein nitrogen source such urea (9 exp.), forages (157 exp.), cereal straws, alkali treated or not (33 exp.), cover or parts of dried grains source of fibre such stalks, hulls or cobs (19 exp.) and industrial by-products usable as fibre source (51 exp.). Key words: nutritional recommendations, raw materials, data basis"

Effect of energy restriction in interaction with genotype on the performance of growing rabbits: II. Carcass traits and meat quality" by Z. Szendrő==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/ZTN1b3FROWR1aUZhWGM1Q0FJRk1XcWpSajlIRDdGUlZUakRXc21FRmxjaz0tLVNIdE1PS3ZtdnZuR1hWWm82UDg3U3c9PQ==--669990dfc647432f898e381ed8b9b41de23c78aa/t/sPPdN-QmqdKDg-bmjCCY/resource/work/13592540/Effect_of_energy_restriction_in_interaction_with_genotype_on_the_performance_of_growing_rabbits_II_Carcass_traits_and_meat_quality?email_work_card=title

Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by hadil samy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bDBFWG8wcXl1MlBnSjlyenBnUkhKL2FZTmVnYmtyVW9vbThrWGNwaERMOD0tLXY4WWFsRlpHU0FKWVRTRTlLTmRCRnc9PQ==--6433eef0d04443b5c7e946a1c73ae59282239da3/t/sPPdN-Qmh7hzB-insEp/resource/work/27823893/Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

DOI: Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by Fathy Abdel-Fattah==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L2g5dmN3WEx4d01hb3JHanJkL1pUQXhZSXBMd3JwczQyVGlGeUhaakFxcz0tLUFPYUloZy9HZnAzMU1wMklmcDUxcEE9PQ==--cf05b9d08abd2994dce26ca3b775a8a327b9c34f/t/sPPdN-QqEo2CE-fAfA5/resource/work/38091315/DOI_Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

INCLUSION OF DRIED AGRO-INDUSTRIAL STRAWBERRY BY- PRODUCTS IN GROWING RABBIT DIETS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/N0V6STlENndzVWprbmthVTJGZEtGcUVha0RzZ2dCWm5sVFZXSFI5VFRPOD0tLWMxRjUyRHpHZ2pyU0l3SGkyR2JXVGc9PQ==--bdf935bf33d5e21673da61a284addd06919e86b9/t/sPPdN-QhFdf7T-VUozM/resource/work/36496618/INCLUSION_OF_DRIED_AGRO_INDUSTRIAL_STRAWBERRY_BY_PRODUCTS_IN_GROWING_RABBIT_DIETS?email_work_card=title

Rabbit’s performance, health and meat quality improvement by phyto-additives" by Attawit Kovitvadhi==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bi8vWGZUcnVHM00zaDJSRklnOWVsV1VtMjlFQjFnQVNDN3VOUXJEQ3Z4Yz0tLXI0MndMN2J3UE8xZkNMbG5yV21YMmc9PQ==--c03893c550d192819f3dde5b88cb43c0251cfc1e/t/sPPdN-QqNsCkH-0zMCL/resource/work/19803703/Rabbit_s_performance_health_and_meat_quality_improvement_by_phyto_additives?email_work_card=title

PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIET CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TOMATO POMACE" by Mahmoud Elazab==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/eDNRMFl1YXdrb2ZTMGdxUkJTYkRTWDNzYkJoVHRVN2locDY1c3FjT3ZCcz0tLTB0R3RFeXZLNGduVlQvN2VQQ1ZaL3c9PQ==--b8af070801c6d13d7041b1060baf6b0b2f86db3f/t/sPPdN-QhbGBew-kbnLX/resource/work/35484427/PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_FED_DIET_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_TOMATO_POMACE?email_work_card=title

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/dVhDUDgwSXFFTHo0UVBldFNXOHFQVkhsbFZnVEphQm50U1FtK1BNc2JIRT0tLXZOQUhpcFFDZ2czSndMaXZDNGVWTVE9PQ==--3f889f2926497df89c9685f9795796f88b4c76c3/t/sPPdN-Qg4y1P2-UzbBy/resource/work/21181061/Growth_performance_carcass_quality_biochemical_and_haematological_traits_and_immune_response_of_growing_rabbits_as_affected_by_different_growth_promoters?email_work_card=title
Growth performance, carcass quality, biochemical and haematological traits and immune response of growing rabbits as affected by different growth promoters" by Youssef Attia]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/d1NVejZIa0VOYm5mUit1dG9xTVdkZ1VHOTB0QUM4aGhHS2xaTVQvcklSTT0tLS9zbXdWNDdBcXBnZFhySTA2Slhxdnc9PQ==--5649e5cdede150483096497d7b424e160c3a414a/t/sPPdN-QdV9eNq-9MtFF/resource/work/36496604/EVALUATION_OF_EGYPTIAN_TREE_WILLOW_Salix_safsafs_LEAVES_AND_ITS_FEEDING_AFFECT_ON_PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_RABBITS?email_work_card=title EVALUATION OF EGYPTIAN TREE WILLOW (Salix safsafs) LEAVES AND ITS FEEDING AFFECT ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBITS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEhlWjJsMlJyc3JCNDNVUlJUK05CaHR2V1NoYWMwVStxTlIrUWloZjEvbz0tLVZEdkJxZVYrc00zYm5aWE5kT0NTTEE9PQ==--b040db53fb351cf834d73ebd3dada957c02e4c95/t/sPPdN-Qfu5LUn-617sS/resource/work/36496613/UTILIZATION_OF_Ziziphus_spina_christi_LEAVES_AS_A_NATURAL_GROWTH_PROMOTER_IN_RABBITS_RATIONS?email_work_card=title UTILIZATION OF Ziziphus spina-christi LEAVES AS A NATURAL GROWTH PROMOTER IN RABBIT'S RATIONS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MzFNWE5hWklnWXhlcStJNExWNjBvcEhudjN1dTZNaVVjdzlnZGpyNVZnMD0tLU4veFVJRldVSElzRy9oN0k2U0tWa1E9PQ==--7562f212c75e4f5a0c8e066594e00fd0239031f2/t/sPPdN-QdyLbjc-qbmgV/resource/work/31846675/Effect_of_replacement_of_berseem_Trifolium_alexandrinum_L_hay_by_berseem_silage_on_performance_of_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title Effect of replacement of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) hay by berseem silage on performance of growing rabbits" by Hamed Gaafar]

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Oil added to feed]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YmlrSzU4SGRBZUJCbGViT0xjNDBZMk0vUGpVTzlFZnlWNjBtbFNSSGVMUT0tLWFlWGtLQVQycjFDSlU3ZmhTcURHdnc9PQ==--b809c3d7d0c75ba0dc95475b2ed5ba659e21e9b8/t/sPPdN-Qe1mzqP-AJQtS/resource/work/12250896/Improving_the_Utilization_of_Rabbit_Diets_Containing_Vegetable_Oil_by_Using_Fennel_Foeniculum_vulgare_And_Oregano_Origanum_vulgare_L_as_Feed_Additives?email_work_card=title Improving the Utilization of Rabbit Diets Containing Vegetable Oil by Using Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) And Oregano (Origanum vulgare L) as Feed Additives" by dr.azza badr]

Study of the effect of grape seed extract as a natural antioxidant on the performance of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits during summer season in Egypt Fawzia A. Hassan1; Khalid M. Mahrose2 and Mohamed Basyony3" by mohamed basyony
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Z0t1TlpMWlo4TjlkRmtURzkxY01MeWZMcEd2SmczNURyUE1GNm10Sy9jaz0tLWNBZ3pLMVZ6RDJ6dnJzeEhsRitsaGc9PQ==--3ea66988e3650ec90c1f8439baede86ffca6bf57/t/sPPdN-QdrCvu9-byFUwt/resource/work/21659194/Study_of_the_effect_of_grape_seed_extract_as_a_natural_antioxidant_on_the_performance_of_New_Zealand_White_NZW_rabbits_during_summer_season_in_Egypt_Fawzia_A_Hassan1_Khalid_M_Mahrose2_and_Mohamed_Basyony3?email_work_card=title

==notes to be incorporated ==

Rabbit Starter Guide

2025-08-26T20:41:31Z

BCAdmin: Changed protection settings for "Rabbit Starter Guide" ([Edit=Allow only administrators] (indefinite) [Move=Allow only administrators] (indefinite))

==Before you get a Rabbit==

Before you get a rabbit.
First research what type of rabbit is going to best fit your lifestyle.
Are you looking for a pet? Are you wanting to raise an animal for food? Do you want to get into Showing rabbits? Or a combination of these? = Rabbit Starter Guide =

== Before You Get a Rabbit ==
Before getting a rabbit, research which type best fits your lifestyle. Consider whether you want a pet, plan to raise rabbits for meat, or are interested in showing. Some may combine these purposes, but careful planning is essential.

=== Pet Rabbits ===
Check whether your living arrangement and local ordinances allow rabbits. Rabbits are generally quiet, low-odor pets that require moderate space. Most breeds are easy to care for once basic needs are met, but breed-specific requirements—such as grooming, flooring, or exercise space—must be considered.

* **Size:** Rabbits range from ~2 lbs to 25+ lbs full-grown. Choose a breed appropriate for your housing, feed budget, and available time.

=== Show Rabbits ===
Joining ARBA (American Rabbit Breeders Association) and breed-specific clubs is highly recommended if you plan to show or breed rabbits.

==== Selecting Show Rabbits ====
* Research breeds to match your showing goals.
* Pedigree does **not** guarantee show quality. A rabbit may have an excellent pedigree but still be disqualified (DQ) for minor faults. And a non-Pedigree rabbit may be your next Best in Show winner.
* Bring an experienced breeder or mentor when selecting a show rabbit.
* Select rabbits free of DQs and representative of the breed standard.

==== Selecting Breeds for Children ====
* **Hardy small breeds:** Mini Rex, Mini Satin, Holland Lop, Mini Lop.
* **More fragile breeds:** Netherland Dwarf, Polish, Britannia Petite (very small or delicate builds).
* Consider temperament: some small breeds may be nervous or high-strung and not suitable for children. Britannia petite is not recommended for kids, or as a first time rabbit .

=== Registered Rabbits ===
* ARBA does **not require registration** to show rabbits.
* Registration requires ARBA membership, a 3-generation pedigree, and a licensed registrar to submit details to ARBA.
* Pedigree tracks ancestry and informs breeding decisions but does **not guarantee quality**.

=== Pedigree vs. Non-Pedigree ===
* Pedigree is NOT REQUIRED TO SHOW.
* Pedigrees are tools for tracking ancestry and making informed crosses.
* They include breed, variety, tattoo, and weight for at least three generations.
* Non-pedigreed rabbits can be high-quality or used meat stock. You need to be able to evaluate the rabbit in front of you.

=== Meat Rabbits ===
* Popular commercial meat breeds: New Zealand White, Rex, Californian, or mixes.
* Choose stock adapted to your climate and verify growth rates (~5 lbs by 10 weeks ideal).
* Evaluate health: check for good body condition, parasite-free, strong rear feet, straight legs, wide base, and absence of pinched hips or hollow loin.

== Environment ==
* Outdoor enclosures must be secure, sheltered from wind/rain, and kept cool in summer. Rabbits tolerate cold better than heat.
* Provide fans, ice bottles, ceramic tiles, and extra water when temperatures exceed 80°F.
* Gradually acclimate rabbits to temperature changes to avoid shock.
* For winter, provide insulated hides, heated water bottles, windbreaks, and straw or hay bedding.

== Housing ==
* Housing varies by breed; options include metal wire cages and hutches.
* Wire floors provide sanitation and nail support but must be properly gauged.
* Indoor setups: 24x24 inch wire cage with X-pen for a safe, supervised area.
* Free-roaming without a retreat space can elevate stress and cortisol levels.

== Feeding ==
* A 10 lb rabbit consumes ~50 lbs of quality pellets every 2 months; smaller breeds consume ~50 lbs every 4 months.
* Store feed in a cool, dark, dry place and use within 6 months of bagging.
* For detailed feeding guidelines, see [[Rabbit Nutrition]].

== Enrichment ==
* Even caged rabbits require toys: cardboard tubes with hay, wooden blocks, baby toys, alfalfa/timothy cubes.
* Observe preferences; provide variety to stimulate natural behaviors.

== Health Check ==
* Learn routine health checking procedures before acquiring rabbits.
* Daily: inspect body, ears, eyes, nose, teeth, and toes.
* Trim nails as needed and monitor for abnormalities such as bumps, cuts, discharge, or uneven teeth.
* Watch for behavioral or appetite changes.

== Emergency Plan ==
* Maintain carriers and have a plan for disasters (hurricanes, fire, etc.).
* Train rabbits to enter carriers calmly.
* Recommended medical kit contents:
** Safeguard, Baycox, Jumpstart paste, raw honey
** Pen G, LA200, probiotic powder, BounceBack, electrolyte powder
** Luer lock syringes (1cc, 3cc), dosing syringes (3cc), needles 22g & 14g
** Mineral or olive oil, Ivermectin (injectable & pour-on)
** Gauze, tape, kitten cone collars, towels, nail clippers, slicker brush, talcum powder
** Karo syrup, septic powder, alcohol, Bactine, lidocaine spray, Vaseline, Monistat 7, athlete's foot cream, triple antibiotic ointment (no painkillers), children's Benadryl liquid

Colonies

2025-08-26T20:40:51Z

BCAdmin: /* References */

= Colony Housing of Domestic Rabbits =

'''Colony housing''' is a management system in which domestic rabbits (''Oryctolagus cuniculus'') are kept together in large shared enclosures rather than individually . While some breeders and hobbyists use this approach, the system presents significant welfare, management, and production challenges. Research generally concludes that the disadvantages outweigh the benefits for both rabbits and caretakers.

== Challenges of Colony Housing ==

=== Territoriality and Aggression ===
Rabbits are highly territorial animals. Introducing multiple animals into a shared space often results in severe fighting, injuries, or death, especially during the establishment phase. Rabbits establish dominance hierarchies in which dominant individuals demand submission from subordinates daily, with violence occurring if this is not displayed (1). Subordinate rabbits often live in a chronic state of stress.

Studies on colony-housed domestic rabbits have shown elevated aggression compared to individually housed rabbits, leading to increased injuries and stress markers (2).

=== Space Requirements ===
To reduce aggression, large amounts of space are required. Practical observations suggest a minimum of 50–80 square feet per doe and 30–50 square feet per buck when housed with does. Even at these levels, some animals may attempt to claim larger areas, making full compatibility difficult.

=== Predators, Parasites, and Pathogens ===
Colony rabbits housed on soil are highly vulnerable to the “three P’s”: predators, parasites, and pathogens. Soil environments promote persistence of coccidia (''Eimeria'' spp.), ''Pasteurella'', and other pathogens that are difficult to eliminate once established (3). Parasite loads are consistently higher in ground systems than in cage or pen housing.

=== Breeding Control ===
When multiple bucks are present, pedigree tracking becomes impossible. Litters may be lost if does nest underground, and failed litters may go unnoticed. If a buck is housed permanently with does, continuous back-to-back breeding occurs, which can physically exhaust does.

=== Maternal Behavior ===
Not all does display good maternal behavior in colonies. Some kill or injure kits, and kits born in underground burrows may be unrecoverable. This complicates both welfare management and selective breeding programs.

== Effects on Stress and Meat Quality ==
Behavioral and physiological studies indicate that rabbits in colonies experience higher baseline stress and fear responses than those in individual or controlled group housing (2). Elevated cortisol levels have been measured in colony environments, comparable to wild counterparts that must remain constantly vigilant.

Contrary to some anecdotal claims, colony housing does not improve meat quality. Multiple controlled studies have shown that cage- or pen-raised rabbits produce carcasses with better tenderness, higher consumer acceptance, and lower cooking loss:

* Dalle Zotte et al. (2009) found restricted feeding and group housing negatively affected carcass traits and meat tenderness (4).
* Szendrő et al. (2012) reported that cage-raised rabbits yielded superior meat quality compared to colony housing (5).
* A 2022 German study comparing WRSA cages with larger “park” systems found higher levels of cortisol and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in park-housed rabbits, suggesting greater stress and potential negative impacts on welfare and meat quality (6).

Across studies, colony or park rabbits consistently showed tougher meat and higher physiological stress responses than rabbits kept in cage or pen systems.

== Summary ==
While colony housing of rabbits may appear “natural,” it exposes animals to heightened risks of aggression, injury, disease, predation, reproductive mismanagement, and reduced meat quality. Research consistently finds that domestic rabbits, unlike their wild ancestors, fare better in systems that minimize stress, allow individual care, and provide controlled breeding and hygiene. For these reasons, most commercial and pedigree breeders avoid colony housing in favor of individual housing systems.

== References ==

1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). *Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.).* CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper. https://www.publish.csiro.au/wr DOI: 10.1071/CWR9590001

2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. *Italian Journal of Animal Science*, 6(sup1), 537–547. PMID: 17482618 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.03.024 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17482618/#:~:text=Abstract,and%20responses%20to%20behavioural%20tests.

3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. *Folia Parasitologica*, 56(3), 153–166. PMID: 19827358 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2009.019
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19827358/

4. Szendrő, Zsolt & Romvári, Róbert & Matics, Zsolt & Radnai, István. (2022). Effect of restricted feeding on productive and carcass traits of rabbits. Acta Agraria Kaposváriensis. 26. 27-39. 10.31914/aak.2946.

5. Metzger, Sz & Kustos, K. & Szendrő, Zsolt & Szabó, András & Eiben, Csilla & István, Nagy. (2010). The effect of housing system on carcass traits and meat quality of rabbit. World Rabbit Sci.. 11. 10.4995/wrs.2003.492.

6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. *Animals*, 12(22), 3177. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/12/10/1622

Colonies

2025-08-26T20:27:11Z

BCAdmin: /* References */

= Colony Housing of Domestic Rabbits =

'''Colony housing''' is a management system in which domestic rabbits (''Oryctolagus cuniculus'') are kept together in large shared enclosures rather than individually . While some breeders and hobbyists use this approach, the system presents significant welfare, management, and production challenges. Research generally concludes that the disadvantages outweigh the benefits for both rabbits and caretakers.

== Challenges of Colony Housing ==

=== Territoriality and Aggression ===
Rabbits are highly territorial animals. Introducing multiple animals into a shared space often results in severe fighting, injuries, or death, especially during the establishment phase. Rabbits establish dominance hierarchies in which dominant individuals demand submission from subordinates daily, with violence occurring if this is not displayed (1). Subordinate rabbits often live in a chronic state of stress.

Studies on colony-housed domestic rabbits have shown elevated aggression compared to individually housed rabbits, leading to increased injuries and stress markers (2).

=== Space Requirements ===
To reduce aggression, large amounts of space are required. Practical observations suggest a minimum of 50–80 square feet per doe and 30–50 square feet per buck when housed with does. Even at these levels, some animals may attempt to claim larger areas, making full compatibility difficult.

=== Predators, Parasites, and Pathogens ===
Colony rabbits housed on soil are highly vulnerable to the “three P’s”: predators, parasites, and pathogens. Soil environments promote persistence of coccidia (''Eimeria'' spp.), ''Pasteurella'', and other pathogens that are difficult to eliminate once established (3). Parasite loads are consistently higher in ground systems than in cage or pen housing.

=== Breeding Control ===
When multiple bucks are present, pedigree tracking becomes impossible. Litters may be lost if does nest underground, and failed litters may go unnoticed. If a buck is housed permanently with does, continuous back-to-back breeding occurs, which can physically exhaust does.

=== Maternal Behavior ===
Not all does display good maternal behavior in colonies. Some kill or injure kits, and kits born in underground burrows may be unrecoverable. This complicates both welfare management and selective breeding programs.

== Effects on Stress and Meat Quality ==
Behavioral and physiological studies indicate that rabbits in colonies experience higher baseline stress and fear responses than those in individual or controlled group housing (2). Elevated cortisol levels have been measured in colony environments, comparable to wild counterparts that must remain constantly vigilant.

Contrary to some anecdotal claims, colony housing does not improve meat quality. Multiple controlled studies have shown that cage- or pen-raised rabbits produce carcasses with better tenderness, higher consumer acceptance, and lower cooking loss:

* Dalle Zotte et al. (2009) found restricted feeding and group housing negatively affected carcass traits and meat tenderness (4).
* Szendrő et al. (2012) reported that cage-raised rabbits yielded superior meat quality compared to colony housing (5).
* A 2022 German study comparing WRSA cages with larger “park” systems found higher levels of cortisol and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in park-housed rabbits, suggesting greater stress and potential negative impacts on welfare and meat quality (6).

Across studies, colony or park rabbits consistently showed tougher meat and higher physiological stress responses than rabbits kept in cage or pen systems.

== Summary ==
While colony housing of rabbits may appear “natural,” it exposes animals to heightened risks of aggression, injury, disease, predation, reproductive mismanagement, and reduced meat quality. Research consistently finds that domestic rabbits, unlike their wild ancestors, fare better in systems that minimize stress, allow individual care, and provide controlled breeding and hygiene. For these reasons, most commercial and pedigree breeders avoid colony housing in favor of individual housing systems.

== References ==

1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). *Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.).* CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper. https://www.publish.csiro.au/wr DOI: 10.1071/CWR9590001

2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. *Italian Journal of Animal Science*, 6(sup1), 537–547. PMID: 17482618 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.03.024

3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. *Folia Parasitologica*, 56(3), 153–166. PMID: 19827358 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2009.019

4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. *Meat Science*, 81(4), 674–678.

5. Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. *World Rabbit Science*, 20(1), 1–9.

6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. *Animals*, 12(22), 3177. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/12/10/1622

Rabbit Starter Guide

2025-08-26T13:30:32Z

BCAdmin: /* Selecting Show Rabbits */

Rabbit Starter Guide

2025-08-26T13:29:39Z

BCAdmin: /* Selecting Breeds for Children */

==Before you get a Rabbit==

Before you get a rabbit.
First research what type of rabbit is going to best fit your lifestyle.
Are you looking for a pet? Are you wanting to raise an animal for food? Do you want to get into Showing rabbits? Or a combination of these? = Rabbit Starter Guide =

== Before You Get a Rabbit ==
Before getting a rabbit, research which type best fits your lifestyle. Consider whether you want a pet, plan to raise rabbits for meat, or are interested in showing. Some may combine these purposes, but careful planning is essential.

=== Pet Rabbits ===
Check whether your living arrangement and local ordinances allow rabbits. Rabbits are generally quiet, low-odor pets that require moderate space. Most breeds are easy to care for once basic needs are met, but breed-specific requirements—such as grooming, flooring, or exercise space—must be considered.

* **Size:** Rabbits range from ~2 lbs to 25+ lbs full-grown. Choose a breed appropriate for your housing, feed budget, and available time.

=== Show Rabbits ===
Joining ARBA (American Rabbit Breeders Association) and breed-specific clubs is highly recommended if you plan to show or breed rabbits.

==== Selecting Show Rabbits ====
* Research breeds to match your showing goals.
* Pedigree does **not** guarantee show quality. A rabbit may have an excellent pedigree but still be disqualified (DQ) for minor faults.
* Bring an experienced breeder or mentor when selecting a show rabbit.
* Select rabbits free of DQs and representative of the breed standard.

==== Selecting Breeds for Children ====
* **Hardy small breeds:** Mini Rex, Mini Satin, Holland Lop, Mini Lop.
* **More fragile breeds:** Netherland Dwarf, Polish, Britannia Petite (very small or delicate builds).
* Consider temperament: some small breeds may be nervous or high-strung and not suitable for children. Britannia petite is not recommended for kids, or as a first time rabbit .

=== Registered Rabbits ===
* ARBA does **not require registration** to show rabbits.
* Registration requires ARBA membership, a 3-generation pedigree, and a licensed registrar to submit details to ARBA.
* Pedigree tracks ancestry and informs breeding decisions but does **not guarantee quality**.

=== Pedigree vs. Non-Pedigree ===
* Pedigree is NOT REQUIRED TO SHOW.
* Pedigrees are tools for tracking ancestry and making informed crosses.
* They include breed, variety, tattoo, and weight for at least three generations.
* Non-pedigreed rabbits can be high-quality or used meat stock. You need to be able to evaluate the rabbit in front of you.

=== Meat Rabbits ===
* Popular commercial meat breeds: New Zealand White, Rex, Californian, or mixes.
* Choose stock adapted to your climate and verify growth rates (~5 lbs by 10 weeks ideal).
* Evaluate health: check for good body condition, parasite-free, strong rear feet, straight legs, wide base, and absence of pinched hips or hollow loin.

== Environment ==
* Outdoor enclosures must be secure, sheltered from wind/rain, and kept cool in summer. Rabbits tolerate cold better than heat.
* Provide fans, ice bottles, ceramic tiles, and extra water when temperatures exceed 80°F.
* Gradually acclimate rabbits to temperature changes to avoid shock.
* For winter, provide insulated hides, heated water bottles, windbreaks, and straw or hay bedding.

== Housing ==
* Housing varies by breed; options include metal wire cages and hutches.
* Wire floors provide sanitation and nail support but must be properly gauged.
* Indoor setups: 24x24 inch wire cage with X-pen for a safe, supervised area.
* Free-roaming without a retreat space can elevate stress and cortisol levels.

== Feeding ==
* A 10 lb rabbit consumes ~50 lbs of quality pellets every 2 months; smaller breeds consume ~50 lbs every 4 months.
* Store feed in a cool, dark, dry place and use within 6 months of bagging.
* For detailed feeding guidelines, see [[Rabbit Nutrition]].

== Enrichment ==
* Even caged rabbits require toys: cardboard tubes with hay, wooden blocks, baby toys, alfalfa/timothy cubes.
* Observe preferences; provide variety to stimulate natural behaviors.

== Health Check ==
* Learn routine health checking procedures before acquiring rabbits.
* Daily: inspect body, ears, eyes, nose, teeth, and toes.
* Trim nails as needed and monitor for abnormalities such as bumps, cuts, discharge, or uneven teeth.
* Watch for behavioral or appetite changes.

== Emergency Plan ==
* Maintain carriers and have a plan for disasters (hurricanes, fire, etc.).
* Train rabbits to enter carriers calmly.
* Recommended medical kit contents:
** Safeguard, Baycox, Jumpstart paste, raw honey
** Pen G, LA200, probiotic powder, BounceBack, electrolyte powder
** Luer lock syringes (1cc, 3cc), dosing syringes (3cc), needles 22g & 14g
** Mineral or olive oil, Ivermectin (injectable & pour-on)
** Gauze, tape, kitten cone collars, towels, nail clippers, slicker brush, talcum powder
** Karo syrup, septic powder, alcohol, Bactine, lidocaine spray, Vaseline, Monistat 7, athlete's foot cream, triple antibiotic ointment (no painkillers), children's Benadryl liquid

Rabbit Starter Guide

2025-08-26T13:29:07Z

BCAdmin: /* Selecting Breeds for Children */

==Before you get a Rabbit==

Before you get a rabbit.
First research what type of rabbit is going to best fit your lifestyle.
Are you looking for a pet? Are you wanting to raise an animal for food? Do you want to get into Showing rabbits? Or a combination of these? = Rabbit Starter Guide =

== Before You Get a Rabbit ==
Before getting a rabbit, research which type best fits your lifestyle. Consider whether you want a pet, plan to raise rabbits for meat, or are interested in showing. Some may combine these purposes, but careful planning is essential.

=== Pet Rabbits ===
Check whether your living arrangement and local ordinances allow rabbits. Rabbits are generally quiet, low-odor pets that require moderate space. Most breeds are easy to care for once basic needs are met, but breed-specific requirements—such as grooming, flooring, or exercise space—must be considered.

* **Size:** Rabbits range from ~2 lbs to 25+ lbs full-grown. Choose a breed appropriate for your housing, feed budget, and available time.

=== Show Rabbits ===
Joining ARBA (American Rabbit Breeders Association) and breed-specific clubs is highly recommended if you plan to show or breed rabbits.

==== Selecting Show Rabbits ====
* Research breeds to match your showing goals.
* Pedigree does **not** guarantee show quality. A rabbit may have an excellent pedigree but still be disqualified (DQ) for minor faults.
* Bring an experienced breeder or mentor when selecting a show rabbit.
* Select rabbits free of DQs and representative of the breed standard.

==== Selecting Breeds for Children ====
* **Hardy small breeds:** Mini Rex, Mini Satin, Holland Lop, Mini Lop.
* **More fragile breeds:** Netherland Dwarf, Britannia Petite (very small or delicate builds).
* Consider temperament: some small breeds may be nervous or high-strung and not suitable for children. Britannia petite is not recommended for kids, or as a first time rabbit .

=== Registered Rabbits ===
* ARBA does **not require registration** to show rabbits.
* Registration requires ARBA membership, a 3-generation pedigree, and a licensed registrar to submit details to ARBA.
* Pedigree tracks ancestry and informs breeding decisions but does **not guarantee quality**.

=== Pedigree vs. Non-Pedigree ===
* Pedigree is NOT REQUIRED TO SHOW.
* Pedigrees are tools for tracking ancestry and making informed crosses.
* They include breed, variety, tattoo, and weight for at least three generations.
* Non-pedigreed rabbits can be high-quality or used meat stock. You need to be able to evaluate the rabbit in front of you.

=== Meat Rabbits ===
* Popular commercial meat breeds: New Zealand White, Rex, Californian, or mixes.
* Choose stock adapted to your climate and verify growth rates (~5 lbs by 10 weeks ideal).
* Evaluate health: check for good body condition, parasite-free, strong rear feet, straight legs, wide base, and absence of pinched hips or hollow loin.

== Environment ==
* Outdoor enclosures must be secure, sheltered from wind/rain, and kept cool in summer. Rabbits tolerate cold better than heat.
* Provide fans, ice bottles, ceramic tiles, and extra water when temperatures exceed 80°F.
* Gradually acclimate rabbits to temperature changes to avoid shock.
* For winter, provide insulated hides, heated water bottles, windbreaks, and straw or hay bedding.

== Housing ==
* Housing varies by breed; options include metal wire cages and hutches.
* Wire floors provide sanitation and nail support but must be properly gauged.
* Indoor setups: 24x24 inch wire cage with X-pen for a safe, supervised area.
* Free-roaming without a retreat space can elevate stress and cortisol levels.

== Feeding ==
* A 10 lb rabbit consumes ~50 lbs of quality pellets every 2 months; smaller breeds consume ~50 lbs every 4 months.
* Store feed in a cool, dark, dry place and use within 6 months of bagging.
* For detailed feeding guidelines, see [[Rabbit Nutrition]].

== Enrichment ==
* Even caged rabbits require toys: cardboard tubes with hay, wooden blocks, baby toys, alfalfa/timothy cubes.
* Observe preferences; provide variety to stimulate natural behaviors.

== Health Check ==
* Learn routine health checking procedures before acquiring rabbits.
* Daily: inspect body, ears, eyes, nose, teeth, and toes.
* Trim nails as needed and monitor for abnormalities such as bumps, cuts, discharge, or uneven teeth.
* Watch for behavioral or appetite changes.

== Emergency Plan ==
* Maintain carriers and have a plan for disasters (hurricanes, fire, etc.).
* Train rabbits to enter carriers calmly.
* Recommended medical kit contents:
** Safeguard, Baycox, Jumpstart paste, raw honey
** Pen G, LA200, probiotic powder, BounceBack, electrolyte powder
** Luer lock syringes (1cc, 3cc), dosing syringes (3cc), needles 22g & 14g
** Mineral or olive oil, Ivermectin (injectable & pour-on)
** Gauze, tape, kitten cone collars, towels, nail clippers, slicker brush, talcum powder
** Karo syrup, septic powder, alcohol, Bactine, lidocaine spray, Vaseline, Monistat 7, athlete's foot cream, triple antibiotic ointment (no painkillers), children's Benadryl liquid

Rabbit Starter Guide

2025-08-26T13:27:56Z

BCAdmin: /* Pedigree vs. Non-Pedigree */

==Before you get a Rabbit==

Before you get a rabbit.
First research what type of rabbit is going to best fit your lifestyle.
Are you looking for a pet? Are you wanting to raise an animal for food? Do you want to get into Showing rabbits? Or a combination of these? = Rabbit Starter Guide =

== Before You Get a Rabbit ==
Before getting a rabbit, research which type best fits your lifestyle. Consider whether you want a pet, plan to raise rabbits for meat, or are interested in showing. Some may combine these purposes, but careful planning is essential.

=== Pet Rabbits ===
Check whether your living arrangement and local ordinances allow rabbits. Rabbits are generally quiet, low-odor pets that require moderate space. Most breeds are easy to care for once basic needs are met, but breed-specific requirements—such as grooming, flooring, or exercise space—must be considered.

* **Size:** Rabbits range from ~2 lbs to 25+ lbs full-grown. Choose a breed appropriate for your housing, feed budget, and available time.

=== Show Rabbits ===
Joining ARBA (American Rabbit Breeders Association) and breed-specific clubs is highly recommended if you plan to show or breed rabbits.

==== Selecting Show Rabbits ====
* Research breeds to match your showing goals.
* Pedigree does **not** guarantee show quality. A rabbit may have an excellent pedigree but still be disqualified (DQ) for minor faults.
* Bring an experienced breeder or mentor when selecting a show rabbit.
* Select rabbits free of DQs and representative of the breed standard.

==== Selecting Breeds for Children ====
* **Hardy small breeds:** Mini Rex, Mini Satin, Holland Lop, Mini Lop.
* **More fragile breeds:** Netherland Dwarf, Britannia Petite (very small or delicate builds).
* Consider temperament: some small breeds may be nervous or high-strung and not suitable for children.

=== Registered Rabbits ===
* ARBA does **not require registration** to show rabbits.
* Registration requires ARBA membership, a 3-generation pedigree, and a licensed registrar to submit details to ARBA.
* Pedigree tracks ancestry and informs breeding decisions but does **not guarantee quality**.

=== Pedigree vs. Non-Pedigree ===
* Pedigree is NOT REQUIRED TO SHOW.
* Pedigrees are tools for tracking ancestry and making informed crosses.
* They include breed, variety, tattoo, and weight for at least three generations.
* Non-pedigreed rabbits can be high-quality or used meat stock. You need to be able to evaluate the rabbit in front of you.

=== Meat Rabbits ===
* Popular commercial meat breeds: New Zealand White, Rex, Californian, or mixes.
* Choose stock adapted to your climate and verify growth rates (~5 lbs by 10 weeks ideal).
* Evaluate health: check for good body condition, parasite-free, strong rear feet, straight legs, wide base, and absence of pinched hips or hollow loin.

== Environment ==
* Outdoor enclosures must be secure, sheltered from wind/rain, and kept cool in summer. Rabbits tolerate cold better than heat.
* Provide fans, ice bottles, ceramic tiles, and extra water when temperatures exceed 80°F.
* Gradually acclimate rabbits to temperature changes to avoid shock.
* For winter, provide insulated hides, heated water bottles, windbreaks, and straw or hay bedding.

== Housing ==
* Housing varies by breed; options include metal wire cages and hutches.
* Wire floors provide sanitation and nail support but must be properly gauged.
* Indoor setups: 24x24 inch wire cage with X-pen for a safe, supervised area.
* Free-roaming without a retreat space can elevate stress and cortisol levels.

== Feeding ==
* A 10 lb rabbit consumes ~50 lbs of quality pellets every 2 months; smaller breeds consume ~50 lbs every 4 months.
* Store feed in a cool, dark, dry place and use within 6 months of bagging.
* For detailed feeding guidelines, see [[Rabbit Nutrition]].

== Enrichment ==
* Even caged rabbits require toys: cardboard tubes with hay, wooden blocks, baby toys, alfalfa/timothy cubes.
* Observe preferences; provide variety to stimulate natural behaviors.

== Health Check ==
* Learn routine health checking procedures before acquiring rabbits.
* Daily: inspect body, ears, eyes, nose, teeth, and toes.
* Trim nails as needed and monitor for abnormalities such as bumps, cuts, discharge, or uneven teeth.
* Watch for behavioral or appetite changes.

== Emergency Plan ==
* Maintain carriers and have a plan for disasters (hurricanes, fire, etc.).
* Train rabbits to enter carriers calmly.
* Recommended medical kit contents:
** Safeguard, Baycox, Jumpstart paste, raw honey
** Pen G, LA200, probiotic powder, BounceBack, electrolyte powder
** Luer lock syringes (1cc, 3cc), dosing syringes (3cc), needles 22g & 14g
** Mineral or olive oil, Ivermectin (injectable & pour-on)
** Gauze, tape, kitten cone collars, towels, nail clippers, slicker brush, talcum powder
** Karo syrup, septic powder, alcohol, Bactine, lidocaine spray, Vaseline, Monistat 7, athlete's foot cream, triple antibiotic ointment (no painkillers), children's Benadryl liquid

Mutations

2025-08-16T18:38:54Z

BCAdmin:

= Genetic Mutations & Oddities =

== Hermaphroditism and Autofertility ==
* **Frankenhuis et al., 1990** – "A case of combined hermaphroditism and autofertilisation in a domestic rabbit."
* Vet Rec.
* [PubMed link](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2382355/)

* **Sheppard, 1943** – "The reproductive system of a pregnant hermaphrodite rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)."
* J Anat. 77(Pt 4): 288–293
* [PMC link](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1252732/)

* **Bayraktar, 2017** – "Potential autofertility in true hermaphrodites."
* Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine 31(4):1–10
* DOI:10.1080/14767058.2017.1291619
* [ResearchGate link](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/313454996_Potential_autofertility_in_true_hermaphrodites)

== Broken Pattern Oddities ==
* Occasionally, a rabbit may present with a single random white spot (e.g., on the foot). While injury is a likely cause in many cases, the broken gene can sometimes be expressed so subtly that only one hair appears white.

* Key points about Broken patterns:
* Broken is **not** a white rabbit with black patches; it is a **solid-colored rabbit with a white overlay**.
* White is a stripping effect caused by genes that block or dilute the density of eumelanin and pheomelanin.
* To confirm a rabbit is genetically broken, **test breeding** is required.

* Genes and combinations that can produce broken patterns, random spotting, or “leakage”:
* `En` – Broken
* `aachdchd` – Self homozygous Chinchilla
* `v` – Vienna
* `duw, dud` – Dutch variants
* Chimera / somatic gene mutation – genes copied incorrectly during cell division

* [PMC article on gene mutations affecting pigmentation](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3695642/)

Advanced Color Genetics

2025-08-16T18:38:00Z

BCAdmin:

= More Advanced Color Genetics =

== Broken Locus ==
* '''En – Broken''' [[File:Geneiticx3_Brokens.jpg|thumb|Broken]]

The Broken pattern is dominant over solid. Rabbits homozygous for the Broken gene are called '''Charlies''' and should only be carefully bred. Homozygous Broken carries a ~70% probability of producing rabbits with megacolon, a digestive disorder.

== Vienna ==
* '''V – Vienna''' [[File:Geneiticx3_Vienna.jpg|thumb|Vienna]]

Vienna is a co-dominant gene. Two copies (vv) produce '''Blue-Eyed White (BEW)''' rabbits. Rabbits with one copy (Vv) are carriers, sometimes showing random white markings and blue eye coloration in one, part, or both eyes. BEW is only expressed in homozygous recessive rabbits (vv).

== Wideband ==
* '''W – Wideband'''

Wideband is a trait modifier affecting Agouti-based rabbits. It extends the band coverage, especially in Chestnut, Red, and Chinchilla rabbits:

* Chestnut → larger area of pheomelanin, less white, more red/yellow on the belly
* Chinchilla → more white on the coat and belly
* Red → solid red belly extending from back

Wideband high-rufus Reds and Chestnuts are desirable in New Zealand Red programs.

* Normal bandwidth: dominant "W"
* Wideband: homozygous recessive "ww"

== Dutch ==
* '''Du''' – regular color
* '''dud''' – Dutch dark
* '''duw''' – Dutch white

[Reference PDF](https://www.adhrc.com/Forms/Color%20Genetics%20of%20the%20Dwarf%20Hotot.pdf)

== Silver ==
* '''Si – Silver'''

The Silver gene produces hairs that are fully white from root to tip, evenly intermixed with body-color hairs.

== Lutino ==
[[File:Lutino.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Lutino Rabbit]]

The Lutino coloration is a '''p mutation''' affecting an integral membrane protein involved in pigmentation. This mutation reduces eumelanin production in both the eyes and coat, creating pink eyes and lighter coat colors.

* Recessive: P = normal, p = mutation. Homozygous pp expresses pink eyes and coat color change.
* Genotypes:
* Basic orange Lutino: A_B_C_D_eepp
* Cream Lutino (“Shadow”): A_B_C_D_E_pp

The Lutino gene functions similarly to the non-extension gene but with pink eyes and less effect on pheomelanin. It has been studied extensively in mice (Castle 1909) and rabbits (SoftPawsRabbits, 1985–2014).

References:
1. Rosemblat et al., 1994, PNAS 91:12071–12075
2. Russell, Genetics 34:146, 1949
3. Castle, Science 30(766):313–314, 1909
[SoftPawsRabbits Lutino Gene](https://softpawsrabbits.weebly.com/the-lutino-gene.html)

== Modifiers ==
Modifiers are not genes themselves but affect the extent of coverage or intensity of rabbit coat colors.

=== Intensity of Red ===
[[File:Geneiticx3_intensity.jpg|thumb|Intensity]]

* Intensity of red (“Rufus”) controls pheomelanin saturation.
* Low intensity → almost dirty white
* High intensity → deep mahogany/maroon
* Rufus also affects pigment saturation in other colors (e.g., rich black vs. dull charcoal)

=== Extent of Broken Pattern ===
[[File:Geneiticx3-29.jpg|thumb|Extent of Coverage]]

* Charlie
* Broken
* Blanket
* Booted

=== Co-dominant, Cryptic, and Ghost Presentations ===
Some genes present partially dominant traits, show stronger expression when homozygous, or produce “phantom” colors.

==== ej – Harlequin ====
[[File:Harliquenized_Opal-01-1.jpeg|200px|thumb|Harlequin Opal]]
[[File:HarlenquinizedChinchilla.jpg|200px|thumb|Harlequin Chinchilla]]

* Harlequin (ej) can appear in:
* Self: aa, Eej
* Chinchilla: A, chd, Eej
* Chestnut: A, Eej
* Ej paired with Steel (Es) can produce “phantom black” or super steel: subtle barring visible only in sunlight or on the belly.

==== chl – Chinchilla Light / Shaded ====
* chlchl → Seal (intense shaded pattern)
* chdchl → Intermediate shaded pattern

==== Es – Steel ====
* Genotypes: EsEs, Ese, Esej
* Can present as solid black in some cases

==== Ed – Dominant Black ====
* Extends eumelanin fully on Agouti rabbits (ABCDEd) → appears self black
* Can produce cryptic self rabbits
* Testing: breed suspected Ed rabbits with self-colored rabbits or red rabbits to confirm genotype

References:
* [Oregon State Extension: Rabbit Coat Genetics Gallery](https://extension.oregonstate.edu/gallery/rabbit-coat-color-genetics-gallery)
* [Understanding Genetics Behind Rabbit Coat Colors Part 2](https://extension.oregonstate.edu/animals-livestock/poultry-rabbits/understanding-genetics-behind-rabbit-coat-colors-part-2-coat)
* [The Nature Trail: Color E Extension Series](https://thenaturetrail.com/rabbit-genetics/color-e-extension-series-steel-tricolor-locus/)
* [Frontiers in Genetics, 2019](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fgene.2019.00875/full)
* [MDPI: Allele ED & ES](https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/11/1/373/htm)

Basic Color Genetics

2025-08-16T18:36:51Z

BCAdmin:

== Basic Color Genetics ==

This page covers the five base alleles that affect the coat color of domestic rabbits. This article focuses strictly on '''genotype''' (the genetic makeup), not '''phenotype''' (how the color appears).

*'''Genotype'''* = the black-and-white formula on the gene that produces a color.
*'''Phenotype'''* = the observable color, often used in breed standards.

Understanding genotype is crucial for predicting offspring color in breeding.

=== A – Agouti ===

The Agouti gene has three alleles:

* '''A''' – Agouti (most dominant)
* '''at''' – Tan
* '''a''' – Self (most recessive)

The Agouti locus expresses the “wild color” banding along each hair shaft. Agouti hairs have alternating bands of eumelanin (dark pigment) and pheomelanin (yellow/red), producing a “ringed” appearance. Standard Agouti colors include Chestnut (Castor), Sandy, Copper, and Chinchilla (Squirrel). Other Agouti-based patterns modified by additional genes include Red, Steel, Harlequin, and Ermine.

* '''Tan (at)''' – Eumelanin on top, pheomelanin on the bottom; expressed across the back, ears, face, belly, and inside the ears. Dominant over '''a''' (Self), recessive to '''A'''. Examples: Tan, Marten, Otter.

* '''Self (aa)''' – Requires homozygous recessive alleles. Produces solid-colored hair shafts, typically expressing the base color at the B locus and sometimes modified by the D and E loci. Examples: Black, Chocolate, Lilac, Blue, Tort.

Summary Table:
* '''A''' = Agouti (banded hair shaft)
* '''at''' = Tan (solid color on top, pheomelanin on bottom)
* '''aa''' = Self (solid hair shaft)

=== B – Base Color ===

[[File:Geneiticx3-27.png|thumb|B Locus]]

The B locus controls the type of eumelanin expressed:

* '''B''' – Black (dominant)
* '''b''' – Brown/Chocolate (recessive)

Base color forms the foundation for many rabbit colors (e.g., Black, Chestnut, Chinchilla, Harlequin, Torts) and can be masked by other genes (white or pheomelanin-only expression).

=== C – Color Coverage ===

[[File:Geneiticx3_C_loci.jpg|thumb|C Locus]]

The C locus affects color intensity and coverage. Four primary alleles:

* '''C''' – Full Color (dominant). Expresses complete eumelanin over the body; modified by at, d, e, and En loci. Examples: Solid Blacks, Chocolates, Blues, Lilacs, Chestnuts, Steels, Harlequins.
* '''chd''' – Dark Chinchilla. Strips most pheomelanin while leaving eumelanin intact; affects Agouti most. Produces Martin, Fox, Ermine, Chinchilla, Silver-Tipped Steel, Magpies.
* '''chl''' – Light Chinchilla. Co-dominant; partially strips pheomelanin. Agouti rabbits with chl- are Siamese; self and tan rabbits with chl- are Sable. Homozygous chlchl = Seal.
* '''ch''' – Himalayan / Californian. Temperature-sensitive; color restricted to cooler points (ears, nose, feet, tail). Recessive to C, chd, chl; dominant over c.
* '''c''' – Albino. Most recessive; masks all other loci when homozygous (cc), producing red-eyed white rabbits.

=== D – Density ===

[[File:Geneiticx3-28.png|thumb|D Locus]]

The D locus controls pigment density:

* '''D''' – Full Density (dominant)
* '''d''' – Dilute (recessive)

Dilution affects eumelanin: Black → Blue, Chocolate → Lilac. Think of it as a “brightness slider” for color intensity.

*Reference:* [A frameshift mutation in the melanophilin gene causes the dilute coat colour in rabbit (PMC)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24320228/)

=== E – Extension ===

[[File:Geneiticx3 E loci v002.jpg|thumb|E Locus]]

The E locus controls how far color extends along the hair shaft in Agouti rabbits:

* '''Ed''' – Dominant Black. Extends B locus color across entire hair.
* '''Es''' – Steel. Extends B color most of the way; tips show pheomelanin.
* '''E''' – Regular Extension. Normal banding along hair shaft.
* '''ej''' – Japanese / Harlequin. Co-dominant; alternating patches of color.
* '''ee''' – Non-Extension / Tort. Suppresses eumelanin; tips colored, rest pheomelanin.

*References:*
* [Mutations in the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) gene in rabbits](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16978179/)
* [Slc7a11 modulated by POU2F1 and pigmentation in rabbits](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6566412/)
* [ASIP gene characterization in rabbits](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0888754309002559)
* W.E. Castle, "Who Discovered the Dominant Black Rabbit?", Journal of Heredity, 1939

Traits

2025-08-16T18:35:50Z

BCAdmin:

= Traits =

'''Overview:'''
Traits are not genes themselves, but modifiers that adjust the expression of certain genes. In rabbits, trait modifiers influence coat color, pattern, intensity, and other phenotypic characteristics. Understanding these modifiers can simplify selective breeding and predict outcomes in offspring.

== Common Trait Modifiers ==

=== Intensity Marker ===
The intensity marker is typically seen in rabbits with a non-extension coat pattern (e.g., "red"). The intensity is usually noted as:
* + : Palomino / creamy yellow
* ++ : Light red
* +++ : Medium red
* ++++ : Dark mahogany red

This modifier affects the depth of color expression without changing the underlying genetic locus.

=== Broken Gene Extent (En – Broken) ===
The broken gene affects the amount and distribution of white on the rabbit's coat. Expression can range from minimal to nearly complete:

* **Booted Broken:** Over 90% color, minimal white
* **Blanket Broken:** 10–50% color with large white areas
* **False Charlie:** Less than 10% color, rabbit appears almost entirely white

Modifiers can sometimes make genetically spotted rabbits appear solid due to extreme blanket patterns.

== Genetic Testing for Traits ==

With the rabbit genome mapped ([NCBI GenBank: Oryctolagus cuniculus Thorbecke inbred](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/nuccore/256946799)), breeders can begin to explore genetic tests for:

* White spot carriers (Dutch, Vienna, English Spot)
* Coat pattern predictions (e.g., Harlequin, En modifiers)
* Hereditary disorders and recessive genes affecting immunity
* Malocclusion carriers, moon eye, and other traits

Planned tests aim to provide breeders with definitive genetic outcomes similar to tests available for horses and dogs.

== Research Resources ==
* [PMC Article: Trait modifiers in rabbits](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5421586/)
* [Rabbit genome mapping](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/nuccore/256946799)

'''Note:''' Future work involves compiling a list of protein chains correlated with specific traits and cross-referencing them with growth, type, and environmental adaptations such as heat tolerance.

Genetics

2025-08-16T18:35:00Z

BCAdmin:

= Rabbit Genetics =

'''Overview:''' Genetics is the science and study of the genes that make up the coding of living organisms. Rabbits serve as valuable models for studying genetic traits, coat colors, growth, and disease.

== Topics ==
* [[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Basic_Color_Genetics|Basic Color Genetics]]
* [[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Advanced_Color_Genetics|Advanced Color Genetics]]
* [[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Coat_Genetics|Coat Genetics]]
* [[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Traits|Traits]]
* [[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Genetic_Health_Defects|Genetic Health Defects]]
* [[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Mutations|Mutations]]

== Rabbit Color by Phenotype ==
Details and links for rabbit coat color phenotypes can be found in the pages above.

== Key Research and References ==

=== Genetic Testing Services ===
* [https://www.creative-biolabs.com/car-t/rabbit-rla-genotyping-service.htm Rabbit RLA Genotyping Service]

=== Genomic Studies and Databases ===
* Fontanesi, L. (2021). ''Rabbit Genetic Resources Can Provide Several Animal Models to Explain Morphological and Physiological Traits''. Appl. Sci. 11(1), 373. [https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/11/1/373 Full text]
* Zhou, L., et al. (2018). ''RabGTD: a comprehensive database of rabbit genome and transcriptome''. Database, 2018, bay075. [https://academic.oup.com/database/article/doi/10.1093/database/bay075/5053987 Full text]
* Oryctolagus cuniculus breed Thorbecke inbred, whole genome shotgun sequencing project: [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/nuccore/256946799 NCBI]

=== Coat Color Genetics ===
* Bychkova, E., et al. (2020). ''Identification of a candidate genetic variant for the Himalayan color pattern in dogs''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33039541/ PubMed]
* Introduction to coat color genetics – [https://youtu.be/UhKouNuw6_k YouTube: Dr. Steve Roush]
* Advanced coat color genetics – [https://youtu.be/0MFx6q3Qka8 YouTube: Dr. Steve Roush]
* Oregon State University: [https://extension.oregonstate.edu/gallery/rabbit-coat-color-genetics-gallery Coat Color Genetics Gallery]
* OR Extension: [https://extension.oregonstate.edu/animals-livestock/poultry-rabbits/understanding-genetics-behind-rabbit-coat-colors-part-2-coat Part 2 – Coat Colors]
* [https://thenaturetrail.com/rabbit-genetics/color-e-extension-series-steel-tricolor-locus/ Steel & Tricolor Locus]

=== Genomic Diversity and Selection ===
* Ballan, M., et al. (2022). ''Genomic diversity and signatures of selection in meat and fancy rabbit breeds''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35062866 PubMed]
* Ballan, M., et al. (2023). ''Population genomic structures and signatures of selection define the genetic uniqueness of several fancy and meat rabbit breeds''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37435689 PubMed]
* Bovo, S., et al. (2023). ''Genome-wide association studies for diarrhoea outcomes in suckling rabbits''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38152994 PubMed]

=== Gene-Specific Research ===
* Demars, J., et al. (2018). ''Melanophilin (MLPH) gene affecting coat color dilution''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30142960 PubMed]
* Fontanesi, L., et al. (2009). ''Agouti signaling protein (ASIP) gene characterization and nonagouti black coat color mutation''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20004240 PubMed]
* Fontanesi, L., et al. (2014). ''KIT gene and English spotting locus, congenital megacolon in Checkered Giant rabbits''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24736498 PubMed]

=== Growth and Production Traits ===
* Fontanesi, L., et al. (2013). ''MC4R gene associated with finishing weight in a meat rabbit line''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23947663 PubMed]
* Fontanesi, L., et al. (2015). ''Growth Hormone Receptor (GHR) polymorphisms and finishing weight''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26913548 PubMed]
* Sosa-Madrid, B., et al. (2019). ''GWAS in divergently selected lines reveals genomic regions for litter size''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31657065 PubMed]

=== General Rabbit Genomics ===
* Miller, I., et al. (2014). ''The rabbit as an experimental and production animal: from genomics to proteomics''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24555894 PubMed]
* Biro, B., et al. (2022). ''Nuclear mitochondrial DNA sequences in the rabbit genome''. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35842180 PubMed]
* Rabbit models overview: [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9501708/ PMC]

== See Also ==
* [[Basic Color Genetics]]
* [[Advanced Color Genetics]]
* [[Coat Genetics]]
* [[Traits]]
* [[Mutations]]
* [[Genetic Health Defects]]

Rabbit Starter Guide

2025-08-16T18:12:30Z

BCAdmin:

==Before you get a Rabbit==

Before you get a rabbit.
First research what type of rabbit is going to best fit your lifestyle.
Are you looking for a pet? Are you wanting to raise an animal for food? Do you want to get into Showing rabbits? Or a combination of these? = Rabbit Starter Guide =

== Before You Get a Rabbit ==
Before getting a rabbit, research which type best fits your lifestyle. Consider whether you want a pet, plan to raise rabbits for meat, or are interested in showing. Some may combine these purposes, but careful planning is essential.

=== Pet Rabbits ===
Check whether your living arrangement and local ordinances allow rabbits. Rabbits are generally quiet, low-odor pets that require moderate space. Most breeds are easy to care for once basic needs are met, but breed-specific requirements—such as grooming, flooring, or exercise space—must be considered.

* **Size:** Rabbits range from ~2 lbs to 25+ lbs full-grown. Choose a breed appropriate for your housing, feed budget, and available time.

=== Show Rabbits ===
Joining ARBA (American Rabbit Breeders Association) and breed-specific clubs is highly recommended if you plan to show or breed rabbits.

==== Selecting Show Rabbits ====
* Research breeds to match your showing goals.
* Pedigree does **not** guarantee show quality. A rabbit may have an excellent pedigree but still be disqualified (DQ) for minor faults.
* Bring an experienced breeder or mentor when selecting a show rabbit.
* Select rabbits free of DQs and representative of the breed standard.

==== Selecting Breeds for Children ====
* **Hardy small breeds:** Mini Rex, Mini Satin, Holland Lop, Mini Lop.
* **More fragile breeds:** Netherland Dwarf, Britannia Petite (very small or delicate builds).
* Consider temperament: some small breeds may be nervous or high-strung and not suitable for children.

=== Registered Rabbits ===
* ARBA does **not require registration** to show rabbits.
* Registration requires ARBA membership, a 3-generation pedigree, and a licensed registrar to submit details to ARBA.
* Pedigree tracks ancestry and informs breeding decisions but does **not guarantee quality**.

=== Pedigree vs. Non-Pedigree ===
* Pedigrees are tools for tracking ancestry and making informed crosses.
* They include breed, variety, tattoo, and weight for at least three generations.
* Even non-pedigreed rabbits can be high-quality pets or meat stock.

=== Meat Rabbits ===
* Popular commercial meat breeds: New Zealand White, Rex, Californian, or mixes.
* Choose stock adapted to your climate and verify growth rates (~5 lbs by 10 weeks ideal).
* Evaluate health: check for good body condition, parasite-free, strong rear feet, straight legs, wide base, and absence of pinched hips or hollow loin.

== Environment ==
* Outdoor enclosures must be secure, sheltered from wind/rain, and kept cool in summer. Rabbits tolerate cold better than heat.
* Provide fans, ice bottles, ceramic tiles, and extra water when temperatures exceed 80°F.
* Gradually acclimate rabbits to temperature changes to avoid shock.
* For winter, provide insulated hides, heated water bottles, windbreaks, and straw or hay bedding.

== Housing ==
* Housing varies by breed; options include metal wire cages and hutches.
* Wire floors provide sanitation and nail support but must be properly gauged.
* Indoor setups: 24x24 inch wire cage with X-pen for a safe, supervised area.
* Free-roaming without a retreat space can elevate stress and cortisol levels.

== Feeding ==
* A 10 lb rabbit consumes ~50 lbs of quality pellets every 2 months; smaller breeds consume ~50 lbs every 4 months.
* Store feed in a cool, dark, dry place and use within 6 months of bagging.
* For detailed feeding guidelines, see [[Rabbit Nutrition]].

== Enrichment ==
* Even caged rabbits require toys: cardboard tubes with hay, wooden blocks, baby toys, alfalfa/timothy cubes.
* Observe preferences; provide variety to stimulate natural behaviors.

== Health Check ==
* Learn routine health checking procedures before acquiring rabbits.
* Daily: inspect body, ears, eyes, nose, teeth, and toes.
* Trim nails as needed and monitor for abnormalities such as bumps, cuts, discharge, or uneven teeth.
* Watch for behavioral or appetite changes.

== Emergency Plan ==
* Maintain carriers and have a plan for disasters (hurricanes, fire, etc.).
* Train rabbits to enter carriers calmly.
* Recommended medical kit contents:
** Safeguard, Baycox, Jumpstart paste, raw honey
** Pen G, LA200, probiotic powder, BounceBack, electrolyte powder
** Luer lock syringes (1cc, 3cc), dosing syringes (3cc), needles 22g & 14g
** Mineral or olive oil, Ivermectin (injectable & pour-on)
** Gauze, tape, kitten cone collars, towels, nail clippers, slicker brush, talcum powder
** Karo syrup, septic powder, alcohol, Bactine, lidocaine spray, Vaseline, Monistat 7, athlete's foot cream, triple antibiotic ointment (no painkillers), children's Benadryl liquid

GI stasis

2025-08-16T18:10:57Z

BCAdmin: /* Etiology / Causes of GI Upset */

= GI Stasis =

== Contents ==
# Etiology (Cause)
# Clinical Signs
# Treatment, Prevention, and Control
## Treatment
# References

=== Etiology / Causes of GI Upset ===
GI upset and stasis in rabbits can result from multiple factors that impair gut motility or disturb the delicate hindgut microbiome:

* **Low fiber intake**: Insufficient dietary fiber impairs normal gut motility. Diets containing less than <14% fiber can predispose rabbits to slowed gastrointestinal transit.
* **Excessive or imbalanced fiber**: Too much fiber >25% —especially from poor-quality hay—or high-protein diets can disrupt hindgut fermentation. Excess fiber can slow cecal fermentation, allowing bacterial overgrowth and producing gas or bloat.
* **Sugary treats / fruits**: High sugar content in snacks or excessive fresh fruit can unbalance gut microbiota, leading to bacterial overload, bloating, and stasis.
* **Diet changes / fast feed switches**: Rapid changes in pellets or feed type can shock the gut microbiome, triggering digestive upset.
* **Stress**: Environmental stressors, handling, or social aggression can impair motility.
* **Surgery / anesthesia**: Anesthesia can temporarily halt gut movement; post-surgical GI stasis is common.
* **Wool block**: Hair ingestion, especially during molting, can obstruct the gut.
* **Intestinal torsion / colic**
* **Moldy or spoiled feed**
* **Illness / infection**: Includes bacterial, viral, or parasitic conditions such as coccidiosis.

== Clinical Signs ==
* Abdominal pain or tenderness
* Bloating
* Reduced or absent fecal output
* Decreased appetite or refusal to eat

== Treatment, Prevention, and Control ==

=== Treatment ===
Immediate action is critical for rabbits showing GI stasis. Treatment includes:

# **Vitamin and Fluid Support**
* 100 cc Lactated Ringer's solution (LR) subcutaneously (SC) with 1 cc B12 or high-B complex added. This helps fight dehydration and stimulate gut motility.

# **Oral Sugar Solution**
* 3 cc glucose or corn syrup orally every 30–60 minutes. The concentrated sugar helps jump-start gut activity and counteract shock.

# **Probiotics**
* Administer a pea-sized amount of probiotic paste (e.g., Jumpstart or Probios) or 1 cc water with probiotics hourly to stabilize gut flora.

# **Gas Relief (if bloated)**
* Baby gas drops (Simethicone/Mylicon) every 15 minutes.
* Gently massage the abdomen to help relieve trapped gas.

# **Fiber Support**
* Force-feed pellet mash, Critical Care, pureed pumpkin, or Benefiber (3 cc per feed) to maintain gut movement.

# **Hydration and Stabilization**
* Follow with 3 cc plain water or water with probiotics between treatments.

Treatment sessions should be spaced approximately 15 minutes apart, with repetition every hour as needed.

=== Address Underlying Causes ===
* **Bacterial overload or secondary infections**: Treat as indicated (e.g., Toltrazuril for coccidia, Baytril or LA200 for respiratory infections, PEN-G for abscesses, Safeguard for enteric coccidiosis, Ivermectin for ear mites).
* **Surgical or stress-related stasis**: Manage environment, hydration, and pain control.

=== Prevention ===
Preventing GI stasis in rabbits focuses on maintaining gut motility, proper nutrition, stress reduction, and proactive healthcare.

* **Dietary Management**
** Provide a consistent, balanced pelleted diet meeting NRC and WRSA guidelines.
** Limit fresh fruits and vegetables to 1–2 tablespoons per day as a supplement rather than a primary nutrient source.
** Ensure adequate fiber intake through Balanced 15-24% Fiber pellets to support normal gut function.
** Avoid moldy or spoiled feed.

* **Stress Reduction**
** Minimize environmental stressors, such as sudden changes in housing or handling.
** Monitor social housing and minimize aggressive interactions.

* **Post-Surgical and Anesthetic Care**
** Provide supportive care after anesthesia to reduce risk of post-operative GI stasis.
** Monitor closely for signs of abdominal discomfort, reduced fecal output, or bloating.

* **Probiotic Supplementation**
Recent research supports the use of probiotics to maintain healthy gut microbiota, enhance digestion, and support immune function:

** Shaheen et al. (2025)** demonstrated that supplementation with *Bifidobacterium*, *Spirulina platensis*, or *Saccharomyces cerevisiae* in low-energy pelleted diets improved feed conversion, body weight, metabolic health, and immune response in New Zealand White rabbits.<ref>Shaheen, M.S., et al. (2025). "Bifidobacterium, Spirulina, and Yeast extracts in low-energy diets for rabbits." *Frontiers in Veterinary Science*, 12:1615203. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2025.1615203</ref>
** Additional studies confirm benefits across breeds: improved gut barrier function, optimized hematology/biochemistry profiles, enhanced resistance to pathogens, and overall digestive stability (Yan et al., 2024; Kadja et al., 2021; Bouaziz et al., 2021; Guo et al., 2017; Ezema & Eze, 2015; Górska et al., 2016).

* **Regular Health Monitoring**
** Routine veterinary check-ups to detect early signs of gastrointestinal issues.
** Early intervention for parasitic infections (e.g., coccidia) or dental problems that can predispose rabbits to stasis.

* **Environmental Enrichment**
** Encourage exercise and natural foraging behavior to maintain gut motility.
** Provide safe chew materials and opportunities for gentle activity.

By integrating diet consistency, stress management, proactive healthcare, and probiotic supplementation, the risk of GI stasis can be substantially reduced.

== References ==
* Harcourt-Brown, F. (2002). ''Textbook of Rabbit Medicine.'' Butterworth-Heinemann.
* Greene, H. (2021). ''Epidemiology of Neoplasia in Pet Rabbits.'' Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine.
* Varga, M. (2014). ''Textbook of Rabbit Medicine, 2nd Edition.'' Elsevier.
* Brodbelt, D.C., et al. (2008). "Risk factors for anaesthetic-related death in pet rabbits." ''Veterinary Record'' 162, no. 12: 388–390.

GI stasis

2025-08-16T18:09:39Z

BCAdmin: /* Etiology (Cause) */

= GI Stasis =

== Contents ==
# Etiology (Cause)
# Clinical Signs
# Treatment, Prevention, and Control
## Treatment
# References

=== Etiology / Causes of GI Upset ===
GI upset and stasis in rabbits can result from multiple factors that impair gut motility or disturb the delicate hindgut microbiome:

* **Low fiber intake**: Insufficient dietary fiber impairs normal gut motility. Diets containing less than ~14% fiber can predispose rabbits to slowed gastrointestinal transit.
* **Excessive or imbalanced fiber**: Too much fiber—especially from poor-quality hay—or high-protein diets can disrupt hindgut fermentation. Excess fiber can slow cecal fermentation, allowing bacterial overgrowth and producing gas or bloat.
* **Sugary treats / fruits**: High sugar content in snacks or excessive fresh fruit can unbalance gut microbiota, leading to bacterial overload, bloating, and stasis.
* **Diet changes / fast feed switches**: Rapid changes in pellets or feed type can shock the gut microbiome, triggering digestive upset.
* **Stress**: Environmental stressors, handling, or social aggression can impair motility.
* **Surgery / anesthesia**: Anesthesia can temporarily halt gut movement; post-surgical GI stasis is common.
* **Wool block**: Hair ingestion, especially during molting, can obstruct the gut.
* **Intestinal torsion / colic**
* **Moldy or spoiled feed**
* **Illness / infection**: Includes bacterial, viral, or parasitic conditions such as coccidiosis.

== Clinical Signs ==
* Abdominal pain or tenderness
* Bloating
* Reduced or absent fecal output
* Decreased appetite or refusal to eat

== Treatment, Prevention, and Control ==

=== Treatment ===
Immediate action is critical for rabbits showing GI stasis. Treatment includes:

# **Vitamin and Fluid Support**
* 100 cc Lactated Ringer's solution (LR) subcutaneously (SC) with 1 cc B12 or high-B complex added. This helps fight dehydration and stimulate gut motility.

# **Oral Sugar Solution**
* 3 cc glucose or corn syrup orally every 30–60 minutes. The concentrated sugar helps jump-start gut activity and counteract shock.

# **Probiotics**
* Administer a pea-sized amount of probiotic paste (e.g., Jumpstart or Probios) or 1 cc water with probiotics hourly to stabilize gut flora.

# **Gas Relief (if bloated)**
* Baby gas drops (Simethicone/Mylicon) every 15 minutes.
* Gently massage the abdomen to help relieve trapped gas.

# **Fiber Support**
* Force-feed pellet mash, Critical Care, pureed pumpkin, or Benefiber (3 cc per feed) to maintain gut movement.

# **Hydration and Stabilization**
* Follow with 3 cc plain water or water with probiotics between treatments.

Treatment sessions should be spaced approximately 15 minutes apart, with repetition every hour as needed.

=== Address Underlying Causes ===
* **Bacterial overload or secondary infections**: Treat as indicated (e.g., Toltrazuril for coccidia, Baytril or LA200 for respiratory infections, PEN-G for abscesses, Safeguard for enteric coccidiosis, Ivermectin for ear mites).
* **Surgical or stress-related stasis**: Manage environment, hydration, and pain control.

=== Prevention ===
Preventing GI stasis in rabbits focuses on maintaining gut motility, proper nutrition, stress reduction, and proactive healthcare.

* **Dietary Management**
** Provide a consistent, balanced pelleted diet meeting NRC and WRSA guidelines.
** Limit fresh fruits and vegetables to 1–2 tablespoons per day as a supplement rather than a primary nutrient source.
** Ensure adequate fiber intake through Balanced 15-24% Fiber pellets to support normal gut function.
** Avoid moldy or spoiled feed.

* **Stress Reduction**
** Minimize environmental stressors, such as sudden changes in housing or handling.
** Monitor social housing and minimize aggressive interactions.

* **Post-Surgical and Anesthetic Care**
** Provide supportive care after anesthesia to reduce risk of post-operative GI stasis.
** Monitor closely for signs of abdominal discomfort, reduced fecal output, or bloating.

* **Probiotic Supplementation**
Recent research supports the use of probiotics to maintain healthy gut microbiota, enhance digestion, and support immune function:

** Shaheen et al. (2025)** demonstrated that supplementation with *Bifidobacterium*, *Spirulina platensis*, or *Saccharomyces cerevisiae* in low-energy pelleted diets improved feed conversion, body weight, metabolic health, and immune response in New Zealand White rabbits.<ref>Shaheen, M.S., et al. (2025). "Bifidobacterium, Spirulina, and Yeast extracts in low-energy diets for rabbits." *Frontiers in Veterinary Science*, 12:1615203. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2025.1615203</ref>
** Additional studies confirm benefits across breeds: improved gut barrier function, optimized hematology/biochemistry profiles, enhanced resistance to pathogens, and overall digestive stability (Yan et al., 2024; Kadja et al., 2021; Bouaziz et al., 2021; Guo et al., 2017; Ezema & Eze, 2015; Górska et al., 2016).

* **Regular Health Monitoring**
** Routine veterinary check-ups to detect early signs of gastrointestinal issues.
** Early intervention for parasitic infections (e.g., coccidia) or dental problems that can predispose rabbits to stasis.

* **Environmental Enrichment**
** Encourage exercise and natural foraging behavior to maintain gut motility.
** Provide safe chew materials and opportunities for gentle activity.

By integrating diet consistency, stress management, proactive healthcare, and probiotic supplementation, the risk of GI stasis can be substantially reduced.

== References ==
* Harcourt-Brown, F. (2002). ''Textbook of Rabbit Medicine.'' Butterworth-Heinemann.
* Greene, H. (2021). ''Epidemiology of Neoplasia in Pet Rabbits.'' Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine.
* Varga, M. (2014). ''Textbook of Rabbit Medicine, 2nd Edition.'' Elsevier.
* Brodbelt, D.C., et al. (2008). "Risk factors for anaesthetic-related death in pet rabbits." ''Veterinary Record'' 162, no. 12: 388–390.

GI stasis

2025-08-16T18:06:56Z

BCAdmin:

= GI Stasis =

== Contents ==
# Etiology (Cause)
# Clinical Signs
# Treatment, Prevention, and Control
## Treatment
# References

== Etiology (Cause) ==
GI stasis occurs when normal gut motility slows or stops. Common causes include:

* **Dietary changes**: Rapid switching of pellets or introducing too many fresh fruits and vegetables. Fresh greens should be limited to 1–2 tablespoons per day and used primarily as supplements rather than main nutrient sources. Excessive fresh food can disrupt hindgut function, leading to bacterial overload, bloat, and stasis.
* **Stress**: Environmental or psychological stress can slow gastrointestinal motility.
* **Surgery and anesthesia**: Both can temporarily halt gut activity, making post-surgical GI stasis common.
* **Low fiber intake**: Insufficient dietary fiber impairs normal gut motility.
* **Wool block**: In rabbits with long fur, ingestion of hair can cause obstruction.
* **Intestinal torsion or colic**
* **Moldy or spoiled feed**
* **Underlying illness**, including coccidia or other infections.

== Clinical Signs ==
* Abdominal pain or tenderness
* Bloating
* Reduced or absent fecal output
* Decreased appetite or refusal to eat

== Treatment, Prevention, and Control ==

=== Treatment ===
Immediate action is critical for rabbits showing GI stasis. Treatment includes:

# **Vitamin and Fluid Support**
* 100 cc Lactated Ringer's solution (LR) subcutaneously (SC) with 1 cc B12 or high-B complex added. This helps fight dehydration and stimulate gut motility.

# **Oral Sugar Solution**
* 3 cc glucose or corn syrup orally every 30–60 minutes. The concentrated sugar helps jump-start gut activity and counteract shock.

# **Probiotics**
* Administer a pea-sized amount of probiotic paste (e.g., Jumpstart or Probios) or 1 cc water with probiotics hourly to stabilize gut flora.

# **Gas Relief (if bloated)**
* Baby gas drops (Simethicone/Mylicon) every 15 minutes.
* Gently massage the abdomen to help relieve trapped gas.

# **Fiber Support**
* Force-feed pellet mash, Critical Care, pureed pumpkin, or Benefiber (3 cc per feed) to maintain gut movement.

# **Hydration and Stabilization**
* Follow with 3 cc plain water or water with probiotics between treatments.

Treatment sessions should be spaced approximately 15 minutes apart, with repetition every hour as needed.

=== Address Underlying Causes ===
* **Bacterial overload or secondary infections**: Treat as indicated (e.g., Toltrazuril for coccidia, Baytril or LA200 for respiratory infections, PEN-G for abscesses, Safeguard for enteric coccidiosis, Ivermectin for ear mites).
* **Surgical or stress-related stasis**: Manage environment, hydration, and pain control.

=== Prevention ===
Preventing GI stasis in rabbits focuses on maintaining gut motility, proper nutrition, stress reduction, and proactive healthcare.

* **Dietary Management**
** Provide a consistent, balanced pelleted diet meeting NRC and WRSA guidelines.
** Limit fresh fruits and vegetables to 1–2 tablespoons per day as a supplement rather than a primary nutrient source.
** Ensure adequate fiber intake through Balanced 15-24% Fiber pellets to support normal gut function.
** Avoid moldy or spoiled feed.

* **Stress Reduction**
** Minimize environmental stressors, such as sudden changes in housing or handling.
** Monitor social housing and minimize aggressive interactions.

* **Post-Surgical and Anesthetic Care**
** Provide supportive care after anesthesia to reduce risk of post-operative GI stasis.
** Monitor closely for signs of abdominal discomfort, reduced fecal output, or bloating.

* **Probiotic Supplementation**
Recent research supports the use of probiotics to maintain healthy gut microbiota, enhance digestion, and support immune function:

** Shaheen et al. (2025)** demonstrated that supplementation with *Bifidobacterium*, *Spirulina platensis*, or *Saccharomyces cerevisiae* in low-energy pelleted diets improved feed conversion, body weight, metabolic health, and immune response in New Zealand White rabbits.<ref>Shaheen, M.S., et al. (2025). "Bifidobacterium, Spirulina, and Yeast extracts in low-energy diets for rabbits." *Frontiers in Veterinary Science*, 12:1615203. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2025.1615203</ref>
** Additional studies confirm benefits across breeds: improved gut barrier function, optimized hematology/biochemistry profiles, enhanced resistance to pathogens, and overall digestive stability (Yan et al., 2024; Kadja et al., 2021; Bouaziz et al., 2021; Guo et al., 2017; Ezema & Eze, 2015; Górska et al., 2016).

* **Regular Health Monitoring**
** Routine veterinary check-ups to detect early signs of gastrointestinal issues.
** Early intervention for parasitic infections (e.g., coccidia) or dental problems that can predispose rabbits to stasis.

* **Environmental Enrichment**
** Encourage exercise and natural foraging behavior to maintain gut motility.
** Provide safe chew materials and opportunities for gentle activity.

By integrating diet consistency, stress management, proactive healthcare, and probiotic supplementation, the risk of GI stasis can be substantially reduced.

== References ==
* Harcourt-Brown, F. (2002). ''Textbook of Rabbit Medicine.'' Butterworth-Heinemann.
* Greene, H. (2021). ''Epidemiology of Neoplasia in Pet Rabbits.'' Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine.
* Varga, M. (2014). ''Textbook of Rabbit Medicine, 2nd Edition.'' Elsevier.
* Brodbelt, D.C., et al. (2008). "Risk factors for anaesthetic-related death in pet rabbits." ''Veterinary Record'' 162, no. 12: 388–390.

Rabbit Care

2025-08-16T18:02:16Z

BCAdmin: /* Non-Infectious Conditions */

=Rabbit Care=

==Baseline Vitals==
Normal:
Temperature: normal range 100.5f-102.5f ,
Does about to give birth may have a drop to as low as 98f

Capillary Refill : less than 2 secs.

==Anatomy==
[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Anatomy Anatomy of the Rabbit]

please use the formatting that follows for all condition articles
* ==Etiology (cause)==
* ==Clinical Signs==
* ==Treatment, Prevention, and Control==

https://cals.cornell.edu/sites/default/files/2021-12/rabbit_decatholon_senior_remediated.pdf

=Physical Warning Signs =

==Nose==
*Bloody Nose
*Thick White Mucus
*labored or mouth breathing

==Fecal Abnormalities ==

*Normal Poo: Rabbit poo should be round, dark brown or Black approx. 1/4 in diameter, and should have a very firm, but slightly moist consistency, it should break apart when squeezed, but not crumble.
*Light colored "Golden" poo : GoldenPoo is a sign of a rabbit getting TOO MUCH FIBER .
*Long oddly shaped Soft and sticky poo.
*Stringy Poo
*White or Clear Mucus
*Diarrhea

==Urine==
Rabbits do pee rainbows so colored urine is not always an issue, but some colors do flag possible issues.

*Normal Rabbit Urine ranges in colors from almost clear, to a dark Yellow, Red, and White.

*red urine (They should only pee red when fed red veggies)

*white urine, may be a sign of balder sludge, but this is not necessarily abnormal or means your rabbit is sick. White Urine if only occasionally may mean that your feed is high in calcium. Normal Rabbit Physiology is set up to process excess calcium, and even bladder sludge. this will become an issue if your rabbit has a genetic predisposition to narrow urethra, or poor mobility. If Your rabbit has poor mobility you will want to switch it to a lower calcium Diet, and add supplements to help mitigate bladder sludge.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/rabbit-calcium-metabolism-bladder-sludge-and-urolithiasis-proceedings

https://www.vin.com/apputil/content/defaultadv1.aspx?pId=11310&catId=33767&id=4516322&ind=155&objTypeID=17

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1094919407000679?via%3Dihub

==Coat Texture==
*Dry, Brittle Coat
*Oily coat

==Eyes==

Healthy eyes should be clear, Bright , and alert.
Warning signs that your rabbit may be sick are:
* Squinted eyes, " Ouchie Face" this is an out ward indication your rabbit may be in pain, often a sign of bloat or gastric issues.
* Weepy eyes, can be a sign of allergy or eye irritations.
* White mucus/puss coming from the corner of the eye, several warnings: including eye infection, Pasteurella, Sinus, tooth or ear infection.
* Blood coming from eyes, examine for a physical injury, or RHDv2.
* White or cloudy film ON the surface of the cornea, eye infection, conjunctivitis, scratched cornea, entropion eyelid.
* White or Cloudy film INSIDE the pupal, E.C., Parasites, Cataracts or Juvenile Cataracts.

=Diseases and Treatments=

https://www.fao.org/3/t0756e/T0756E09.htm

the following are links to in-depth pages on each item, as well as lists of topics you can peruse.

==Medicine Cabinet==

You should keep these Emergency items in your medicine cabinet. Antibiotics highlighted in red
[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JRR3XzP3XKT_tFOTJ6_wFDURolGPWtpa/view?usp=share_link Exotic Animal Formulary -_by James W Carpenter 4th ed] Rabbits starts on page 537

===By Use===
[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Antimicrobial_Agents Antimicrobial Agents Used in Rabbits.]

===Alphabetically:===

#
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=4x4_Gauze: 4x4 Gauze]

A
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Apple_cider_vinegar: Apple Cider Vinegar]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Athletes_Foot_Cream: Athletes Foot Cream ]

B
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=B-Complex_vit_injectable: B-Complex Injectable]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Baby_Gas_Drops: Baby Gas Drops]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Baby_wipes: Baby Wipes]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Bleach: Bleach]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Blue_kote: Blue Kote]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Toltrazuril5 Baycox]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Baytril Baytril]

C
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Corid: Corid ]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Corn_Syrup: Corn Syrup]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Cotton_Balls: Cotton Balls]

D
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Draxxin Draxxin]

E
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Elm_bark : Elm Bark]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Electrolyte_powder: Electrolyte Powder]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Exam_gloves: Exam Gloves]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Baytril Enrofloxacin]
F

G
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Grip_eWater: Gripe Water ]

H

I
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=ImodiumAD: Imodium AD]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Iodine: Iodine]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Iron100injectable: Iron 100 injectable]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Ivermectin: Ivermectin]

J
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=JumpstartPaste: Jumpstart Paste]

K

L
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Lighter: Lighter]
* LA 200 , Liquamycin 
* LA 300 , Noromycin ** harder to dose for rabbits due to concentration

M
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Mineral_oil: Mineral oil]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Molasses: Molasses]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Monistat_7: Monistat 7]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Mylicon: Mylicon]

N
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=needles: Needles]

O
*oxytetracycline (LA 200) (LA 300)

P
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Peroxide: Peroxide ]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=PreparationH: Preparation H]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=ProbioticPowder: Probiotic Powder]
*

Q
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Q-tips: Q-tips]

R
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Redcell: Red cell]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Rubbingalcohol: Rubbing alcohol]

S
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=SafeGuard: SafeGuard ]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=slave: Slave]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Simethicone: Simethicone]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Selenium-EpasteGel: Selenium-E paste/Gel]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Sweetoil: Sweet oil]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Syringes: Syringes]

T
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Toltrazuril5 Toltrazuril 5%]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=TripleAntibioticOintment : Triple Antibiotic Ointment]
*

U

V
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Vaseline: Vaseline]

W
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=WonderDust: Wonder Dust]

X

Y

Z

==Bacterial==

*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php?title=Abscess&action=edit&redlink=1 Abscess]
*Blue Breast
*Conjunctivitis
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/E.Coli E.Coli ]
*Enteritis Complex
*Enterotoxaemia
*Foot Abscess
*Hemorrhagic Septicemia
*Listeria
*Listerious
*Mastitis
*Metritis
*Mucoid Enteritis
*Nest Box Eye
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Pasteurella Pasteurella ]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Pasteurella Pasteurelosis]
*Pneumonia
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Pseudomonas Pseudomonas]
*Rabbit Syphilis
*Salmonella
*Salmonellosis
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Pasteurella Snuffles]
*Sore Eye
*Tyzzer's Disease
*Vent Disease
*Weaning Enteritis
*Weepy Eye
*Wry Neck

==Viral==

*Infectious Myxomatosis
*Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease 1 and 2
*Myxomatosis

==Fungal==

*Dermatophytosis
*Ring Worm

==Parasitic==

===External Parasites===
*Warbles
*Bot Fly
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Flea Fleas ]
*Fly strike
*Fur Mites
*Mange Mite
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Ear_mites Ear Mites]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Ear_mites Ear Canker]

===Internal Parasites ===

*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Worms Pin Worms]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Worms Tape Worms]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Worms Whip Worms]
*Nosema
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/E.Cuniculi E.Cuniculi]
*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Coccidia Coccidia]
**Intestinal
** Hepatic

*[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Liver_Flukes Liver Flukes]

==Non-Infectious Conditions==
===Cancer===
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Cancer Cancer]
===Gastrointestinal===
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/GI_stasis#Treatment%2C_Prevention%2C_and_Control GI stasis]

===Reproductive Issues===
* Cannibalism
* Ketosis
* Heat sterilization : Ginger added to the feed stopped the heat sterilization https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32819074/
* Pregnancy Toxemia
* Caked Breast
* "Young Doe Death Syndrome"
* Orphaned Kits
* Scattering Young
* Early Nest Box Fatalities
* Milk Enterotoxaemia
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/De-sexing_complications de-sexing complications]

===Common Injury or Self-inflected===
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Cancer Cancer]
* Fighting
* Fur Chewing
* Hair/Wool Block
* Wet-Dewlap* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Pseudomonas can lead to infectious Pseudomonas]
* Wry-Neck
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Sore_Hocks Sore Hocks]
* Ulcerated Footpads

===Dental===
* Slobbers
* Tooth Abscess

===Genetic Abnormalities Birth Defects ===
* Fetal Giantism
* Microcardia
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Malocclusion Malocclusion ]
* Calcium Sludge.
https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124899522358267182?_t=8VSTtKvO62A&_r=1
* Torticollis
* Dystocia
* "Young Doe Death Syndrome"
* Enterotoxaemia
* Mastitis
* Staphylococcus sp.
* Agalactia
* Red Urine
* Paralysis of Hindquarter
* Hutch Burn/Urine scald
* Corneal Ulcer
* Keratitis
* Glaucoma
* Heat Prostration
* Coprophagy
* Non-Specific Diarrhea
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Porcelain_Gallbladder Porcelain Gallbladder]
* Fatty Liver

[https://reader.elsevier.com/reader/sd/pii/B9780124095274000109?token=DD76077F427AB1151870A718E5C06BF8DD659A1EED297CF29E4A260F08B9C03747109794F2CDDC1A497EB31C08937A01&originRegion=us-east-1&originCreation=20220102154434]

=Housing=

Wire floored cages are fine for most breeds of rabbits as long as the correct wire is used .

Cancer

2025-08-16T17:59:35Z

BCAdmin:

= Cancer in Rabbits =

== History of the 80% Uterine Cancer Myth ==

A frequently cited statistic in rabbit veterinary literature claims that 80% of intact female rabbits (does) will develop uterine adenocarcinoma during their lifetimes. This figure originates from a single colony study conducted in 1958, and it has been widely misinterpreted and overgeneralized across the pet rabbit population.

Subsequent research and clinical experience have demonstrated that this risk is highly dependent on genetics, husbandry, and age. Later studies indicate that the total occurrence of any type of tumor in pet rabbits is typically below 40%, and this figure includes all tumors present at the time of death, not necessarily tumors that were the primary cause of death.<ref>Whitehead, Martin L. "Letter: Rabbit health." ''Veterinary Record'' 180, no. 3 (2017): 77. https://www.tesble.com/10.1136/vr.j826</ref>

Furthermore, the lifetime incidence of uterine adenocarcinoma specifically is substantially lower—conservatively estimated at around 14%—and primarily occurs in rabbits older than six years. These findings highlight that the original 80% figure was based on one specific herd with unique genetic risk factors and should not be applied broadly to all domestic rabbits.

Veterinary practitioners have argued that routine spaying to prevent uterine cancer must be weighed against the actual risks of surgery and anesthesia. Martin Whitehead of Chipping Norton Veterinary Hospital summarized clinical observations from his practice:

:"In my practice, for all 53 entire does presented for which we had both an age at death and an entry in the clinical records about the death, age at death averaged 4.9±2.9 years (median 5.0 years). Of the 61 entire does older than six months that were examined at or within a few days before death, only three (ages 5.5, >6, and 7.2 years) had evidence of caudal or midabdominal tumours – each euthanased because of the tumours. For one case, ultrasonography indicated the tumour was uterine, the others were palpated only. No currently living does have evidence of abdominal masses. These data indicate that only 10–13% of entire does over 5 years old had a clinically detectable abdominal mass consistent with a uterine tumour. To prevent one case of uterine cancer, we would have to spay 16–20 does. Given the surgical and anesthesia risks, spaying all does routinely is not justified unless there is a specific indication."

Whitehead’s observations reinforce the conclusions of Bradbury and Dickens (2016), who questioned whether universal neutering is optimal for pet rabbit welfare, emphasizing the need to balance cancer prevention with surgical and long-term health risks.<ref>Bradbury, A.G., and G.J.E. Dickens. "Should we advocate neutering for all pet rabbits?" ''Veterinary Record'' 179, no. 24 (2016): 654–655. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28008120/</ref>

== Rabbit Cancer Risks vs. Surgical Risks of Spay/Neuter ==

In domestic rabbits (''Oryctolagus cuniculus''), one of the most frequently cited justifications for routine elective sterilization procedures is the prevention of reproductive cancers, with particular focus on uterine adenocarcinoma in does. Uterine carcinoma has historically been documented in poorly managed or indiscriminately bred pet lines, leading to its portrayal as an inevitable outcome in intact female rabbits. However, the true risk is considerably more variable than commonly presented.

Peer-reviewed studies indicate that lifetime incidence of uterine cancer in pet rabbits ranges widely between 8% and 60%, depending heavily on both genetic predisposition and the age profile of the studied population (Greene, 1958; Varga, 2014). In well-bred show or utility lines, where breeders have actively selected against uterine neoplasia for decades, the prevalence is significantly lower. As a result, the absolute cancer-prevention benefit of spaying varies dramatically between populations, and broad claims of "universal" risk are not supported by the literature.

=== Surgical Risks Unique to Rabbits ===

When evaluating the risks of spay (ovariohysterectomy) and neuter (orchiectomy), it is essential to consider the species-specific physiology of rabbits. Unlike dogs or cats, rabbits are obligate hindgut fermenters with highly specialized gastrointestinal tracts. Their digestive systems are extremely sensitive to disruption, and post-operative ileus (commonly referred to as GI stasis) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality following surgical procedures. Even minor anesthetic stress, changes in gut motility, or pain can precipitate a cascade leading to gut shutdown, dysbiosis, and death.

Clinical reviews and retrospective studies suggest that complications from adhesions, anesthetic stress, and unresolved GI stasis collectively account for as many as 40% of reported deaths following elective rabbit spay/neuter surgeries in general pet populations. This figure varies with surgical setting: the risk is substantially higher in small or toy breeds, older animals, or when procedures are performed in facilities without rabbit-specialized anesthesia, analgesia, and recovery protocols. Conversely, specialized rabbit practices with advanced anesthetic monitoring and recovery protocols may mitigate—but not eliminate—these risks.

Additional surgical complications include:
* **Adhesion formation** – Post-surgical adhesions can lead to chronic abdominal pain, recurrent ileus
* **Hemorrhage** – Rabbits possess fragile vasculature, making intraoperative bleeding a significant risk.
* **Respiratory arrest** – Due to unique airway anatomy and anesthetic sensitivity, airway management is more complex than in dogs or cats.

=== Endocrine and Long-Term Health Consequences ===

Beyond immediate surgical hazards, removal of functional gonads has far-reaching implications for rabbit health. Testosterone and estrogen are not limited to reproductive roles; they are critical regulators of immune function, skeletal maintenance, metabolism, and endocrine balance. Eliminating these hormones alters multiple biological systems.

Key documented and theorized long-term consequences include:
* **Increased risk of hormone-sensitive cancers** — Studies in rabbits and other mammals demonstrate that loss of gonadal hormones may predispose to pituitary adenomas, mammary carcinomas, and osteosarcoma (McClellan et al., 2020).
* **Bone density reduction** — Estrogen and testosterone regulate osteoclast and osteoblast activity. Early gonadectomy accelerates osteoporosis and osteoarthritis due to reduced bone remodeling efficiency.
* **Calcium metabolism disruption** — Rabbits already excrete calcium in a highly unique manner compared to other mammals. Hormonal removal exacerbates dysregulation, increasing the risk of bladder sludge, urolithiasis (calcium-based urinary stones), and renal compromise (Harcourt-Brown, 2002).
* **Immune suppression** — Evidence from lagomorphs and other species indicates that thymic and T-cell changes following neutering may compromise immune surveillance, reducing the body’s natural ability to identify and eliminate neoplastic cells.

Importantly, these effects compound with age, meaning rabbits sterilized early in life may experience a higher cumulative burden of skeletal, metabolic, and endocrine disease than intact counterparts managed in controlled environments.

=== Summary and Risk-Benefit Considerations ===

While spay/neuter may be warranted in specific contexts—such as for population control in multi-rabbit households, shelters, or when dealing with lines known to carry high reproductive cancer risk—the routine blanket recommendation for all rabbits, regardless of age, genetic background, or management system, is not evidence-based.

For many healthy, well-managed rabbits, the combination of:
* **Immediate surgical hazards** (notably the high incidence of post-operative GI stasis and adhesion-related complications, with up to 40% mortality in some reports),
* **Long-term endocrine deficiencies** (predisposing to skeletal disease, urinary pathology, and secondary cancers),

outweighs the potential benefit of reproductive cancer prevention, particularly in carefully bred populations with reduced genetic predisposition to uterine neoplasia.

This evidence suggests that sterilization decisions should be individualized, weighing the specific genetic risk profile, management setting, and surgical expertise available, rather than applying a universal, one-size-fits-all recommendation.

== References ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; text-align:left;"
|+ '''Key Peer-Reviewed Citations on Rabbit Cancer and Spay/Neuter Risks'''
! Scope
! Summary
! Citation
|-
| Immune Surveillance and Cancer Risk Post-Neutering
| Neutering in male cattle, rabbits, and guinea pigs causes thymus enlargement and reduced cytotoxic T cells, weakening immune surveillance against cancer cells.
| Skorupski, Katherine S., DVM. “The Gonadectomy Controversy.” ''Veterinary Practice News'', [pub date TBD], citing ''Frontiers in Veterinary Science'' (2019).
|-
| Hormonal Influence on Mammary Tumors in Rabbits
| Some mammary carcinomas in rabbits lack estrogen/progesterone receptor expression, but elevated prolactin (from pseudopregnancy or pituitary adenomas) has been linked with proliferative mammary changes and tumor risk.
| “A Review of Mammary Tumors in Rabbits: Translation of Pathology into Medical Care.” ''PubMed Central'' (2020).
|-
| Risks of Spay/Neuter Beyond Cancer
| Gonadectomy can lead to hormone imbalance, obesity, bone disease, endocrine disorders, and higher cancer risk—supported by cross-species data.
| Brent, Linda. “Review of Health Implications of Dog Spay/Neuter.” ''Parsemus Foundation'', April 14, 2020.
|-
| Surgical and Anesthetic Risks in Rabbits
| Rabbits face substantially higher perioperative mortality and post-surgical complications, including gastrointestinal stasis and adhesions. Risk varies by health status, age, breed, and anesthesia protocols. Mortality: 0.73–2.05% for healthy rabbits, up to 7.37% for sick rabbits; GI complications up to 38%.
| Pieper, E.G., Carter, J.E., Firestone, S.M., & Baron, H.R. “A review of perioperative mortality in pet rabbits in Australia.” ''Australian Veterinary Journal'' 103, no. 1–2 (2025): 3–12. https://doi.org/10.1111/avj.13391; Brodbelt, D.C., et al. “Risk factors for anaesthetic-related death in pet rabbits.” ''Veterinary Record'' 162, no. 12 (2008): 388–390; Lee, H.W., Machin, H., & Adami, C. “Peri‑anaesthetic mortality and gastrointestinal complications in pet rabbits: A retrospective study of 210 cases.” ''Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia'' 45, no. 4 (2018): 520–528. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaa.2018.01.010
|-
| Mechanistic Insights on Sterility-Induced Tumorigenesis
| In rodents, removal of germ cells and sex steroids combined with elevated gonadotropins drives ovarian epithelial tumors; a model relevant to rabbits.
| “Steroid Hormones and Experimental Ovarian Tumorigenesis in Rodents.” ''PubMed Central'', ''Animal Models of Ovarian Cancer''.
|}

==Summary Table of Evidence==

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Summary of Evidence on Spay/Neuter Risks in Rabbits
|-
! Theme
! Key Insight
|-
| Immune Dysfunction
| Neutering reduces cancer-resisting T-cells, potentially increasing tumor risk.
|-
| Hormonal Cancer Pathways
| Prolactin and hormone disturbances may contribute to mammary tumor development.
|-
| Broader Health Impacts
| Gonad removal is linked to bone, endocrine, obesity, and other systemic issues.
|-
| Surgical Risks
| High perioperative mortality due to anesthesia complications and GI issues.
|-
| Sterility Mechanisms
| Hormone and germ cell changes post-sterilization may promote tumorigenesis in models.
|}

Cancer

2025-08-16T17:52:46Z

BCAdmin: /* Surgical Risks Unique to Rabbits */

= Cancer in Rabbits =

== Rabbit Cancer Risks vs. Surgical Risks of Spay/Neuter ==

In domestic rabbits (''Oryctolagus cuniculus''), one of the most frequently cited justifications for routine elective sterilization procedures is the prevention of reproductive cancers, with particular focus on uterine adenocarcinoma in does. Uterine carcinoma has historically been documented in poorly managed or indiscriminately bred pet lines, leading to its portrayal as an inevitable outcome in intact female rabbits. However, the true risk is considerably more variable than commonly presented.

Peer-reviewed studies indicate that lifetime incidence of uterine cancer in pet rabbits ranges widely between 8% and 60%, depending heavily on both genetic predisposition and the age profile of the studied population (Greene, 2021; Varga, 2014). In well-bred show or utility lines, where breeders have actively selected against uterine neoplasia for decades, the prevalence is significantly lower. As a result, the absolute cancer-prevention benefit of spaying varies dramatically between populations, and broad claims of "universal" risk are not supported by the literature.

=== Surgical Risks Unique to Rabbits ===

When evaluating the risks of spay (ovariohysterectomy) and neuter (orchiectomy), it is essential to consider the species-specific physiology of rabbits. Unlike dogs or cats, rabbits are obligate hindgut fermenters with highly specialized gastrointestinal tracts. Their digestive systems are extremely sensitive to disruption, and post-operative ileus (commonly referred to as GI stasis) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality following surgical procedures. Even minor anesthetic stress, changes in gut motility, or pain can precipitate a cascade leading to gut shutdown, dysbiosis, and death.

Clinical reviews and retrospective studies suggest that complications from adhesions, anesthetic stress, and unresolved GI stasis collectively account for as many as 40% of reported deaths following elective rabbit spay/neuter surgeries in general pet populations. This figure varies with surgical setting: the risk is substantially higher in small or toy breeds, older animals, or when procedures are performed in facilities without rabbit-specialized anesthesia, analgesia, and recovery protocols. Conversely, specialized rabbit practices with advanced anesthetic monitoring and recovery protocols may mitigate—but not eliminate—these risks.

Additional surgical complications include:
* **Adhesion formation** – Post-surgical adhesions can lead to chronic abdominal pain, recurrent ileus
* **Hemorrhage** – Rabbits possess fragile vasculature, making intraoperative bleeding a significant risk.
* **Respiratory arrest** – Due to unique airway anatomy and anesthetic sensitivity, airway management is more complex than in dogs or cats.

=== Endocrine and Long-Term Health Consequences ===

Beyond immediate surgical hazards, removal of functional gonads has far-reaching implications for rabbit health. Testosterone and estrogen are not limited to reproductive roles; they are critical regulators of immune function, skeletal maintenance, metabolism, and endocrine balance. Eliminating these hormones alters multiple biological systems.

Key documented and theorized long-term consequences include:
* **Increased risk of hormone-sensitive cancers** — Studies in rabbits and other mammals demonstrate that loss of gonadal hormones may predispose to pituitary adenomas, mammary carcinomas, and osteosarcoma (McClellan et al., 2020).
* **Bone density reduction** — Estrogen and testosterone regulate osteoclast and osteoblast activity. Early gonadectomy accelerates osteoporosis and osteoarthritis due to reduced bone remodeling efficiency.
* **Calcium metabolism disruption** — Rabbits already excrete calcium in a highly unique manner compared to other mammals. Hormonal removal exacerbates dysregulation, increasing the risk of bladder sludge, urolithiasis (calcium-based urinary stones), and renal compromise (Harcourt-Brown, 2002).
* **Immune suppression** — Evidence from lagomorphs and other species indicates that thymic and T-cell changes following neutering may compromise immune surveillance, reducing the body’s natural ability to identify and eliminate neoplastic cells.

Importantly, these effects compound with age, meaning rabbits sterilized early in life may experience a higher cumulative burden of skeletal, metabolic, and endocrine disease than intact counterparts managed in controlled environments.

=== Summary and Risk-Benefit Considerations ===

While spay/neuter may be warranted in specific contexts—such as for population control in multi-rabbit households, shelters, or when dealing with lines known to carry high reproductive cancer risk—the routine blanket recommendation for all rabbits, regardless of age, genetic background, or management system, is not evidence-based.

For many healthy, well-managed rabbits, the combination of:
* **Immediate surgical hazards** (notably the high incidence of post-operative GI stasis and adhesion-related complications, with up to 40% mortality in some reports),
* **Long-term endocrine deficiencies** (predisposing to skeletal disease, urinary pathology, and secondary cancers),

outweighs the potential benefit of reproductive cancer prevention, particularly in carefully bred populations with reduced genetic predisposition to uterine neoplasia.

This evidence suggests that sterilization decisions should be individualized, weighing the specific genetic risk profile, management setting, and surgical expertise available, rather than applying a universal, one-size-fits-all recommendation.

== References ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; text-align:left;"
|+ '''Key Peer-Reviewed Citations on Rabbit Cancer and Spay/Neuter Risks'''
! Scope
! Summary
! Citation
|-
| Immune Surveillance and Cancer Risk Post-Neutering
| Neutering in male cattle, rabbits, and guinea pigs causes thymus enlargement and reduced cytotoxic T cells, weakening immune surveillance against cancer cells.
| Skorupski, Katherine S., DVM. “The Gonadectomy Controversy.” ''Veterinary Practice News'', [pub date TBD], citing ''Frontiers in Veterinary Science'' (2019).
|-
| Hormonal Influence on Mammary Tumors in Rabbits
| Some mammary carcinomas in rabbits lack estrogen/progesterone receptor expression, but elevated prolactin (from pseudopregnancy or pituitary adenomas) has been linked with proliferative mammary changes and tumor risk.
| “A Review of Mammary Tumors in Rabbits: Translation of Pathology into Medical Care.” ''PubMed Central'' (2020).
|-
| Risks of Spay/Neuter Beyond Cancer
| Gonadectomy can lead to hormone imbalance, obesity, bone disease, endocrine disorders, and higher cancer risk—supported by cross-species data.
| Brent, Linda. “Review of Health Implications of Dog Spay/Neuter.” ''Parsemus Foundation'', April 14, 2020.
|-
| Surgical and Anesthetic Risks in Rabbits
| Rabbits face substantially higher perioperative mortality and post-surgical complications, including gastrointestinal stasis and adhesions. Risk varies by health status, age, breed, and anesthesia protocols. Mortality: 0.73–2.05% for healthy rabbits, up to 7.37% for sick rabbits; GI complications up to 38%.
| Pieper, E.G., Carter, J.E., Firestone, S.M., & Baron, H.R. “A review of perioperative mortality in pet rabbits in Australia.” ''Australian Veterinary Journal'' 103, no. 1–2 (2025): 3–12. https://doi.org/10.1111/avj.13391; Brodbelt, D.C., et al. “Risk factors for anaesthetic-related death in pet rabbits.” ''Veterinary Record'' 162, no. 12 (2008): 388–390; Lee, H.W., Machin, H., & Adami, C. “Peri‑anaesthetic mortality and gastrointestinal complications in pet rabbits: A retrospective study of 210 cases.” ''Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia'' 45, no. 4 (2018): 520–528. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaa.2018.01.010
|-
| Mechanistic Insights on Sterility-Induced Tumorigenesis
| In rodents, removal of germ cells and sex steroids combined with elevated gonadotropins drives ovarian epithelial tumors; a model relevant to rabbits.
| “Steroid Hormones and Experimental Ovarian Tumorigenesis in Rodents.” ''PubMed Central'', ''Animal Models of Ovarian Cancer''.
|}

==Summary Table of Evidence==

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Summary of Evidence on Spay/Neuter Risks in Rabbits
|-
! Theme
! Key Insight
|-
| Immune Dysfunction
| Neutering reduces cancer-resisting T-cells, potentially increasing tumor risk.
|-
| Hormonal Cancer Pathways
| Prolactin and hormone disturbances may contribute to mammary tumor development.
|-
| Broader Health Impacts
| Gonad removal is linked to bone, endocrine, obesity, and other systemic issues.
|-
| Surgical Risks
| High perioperative mortality due to anesthesia complications and GI issues.
|-
| Sterility Mechanisms
| Hormone and germ cell changes post-sterilization may promote tumorigenesis in models.
|}

Cancer

2025-08-16T17:50:29Z

BCAdmin: /* References */

= Cancer in Rabbits =

== Rabbit Cancer Risks vs. Surgical Risks of Spay/Neuter ==

In domestic rabbits (''Oryctolagus cuniculus''), one of the most frequently cited justifications for routine elective sterilization procedures is the prevention of reproductive cancers, with particular focus on uterine adenocarcinoma in does. Uterine carcinoma has historically been documented in poorly managed or indiscriminately bred pet lines, leading to its portrayal as an inevitable outcome in intact female rabbits. However, the true risk is considerably more variable than commonly presented.

Peer-reviewed studies indicate that lifetime incidence of uterine cancer in pet rabbits ranges widely between 8% and 60%, depending heavily on both genetic predisposition and the age profile of the studied population (Greene, 2021; Varga, 2014). In well-bred show or utility lines, where breeders have actively selected against uterine neoplasia for decades, the prevalence is significantly lower. As a result, the absolute cancer-prevention benefit of spaying varies dramatically between populations, and broad claims of "universal" risk are not supported by the literature.

=== Surgical Risks Unique to Rabbits ===

When evaluating the risks of spay (ovariohysterectomy) and neuter (orchiectomy), it is essential to consider the species-specific physiology of rabbits. Unlike dogs or cats, rabbits are obligate hindgut fermenters with highly specialized gastrointestinal tracts. Their digestive systems are extremely sensitive to disruption, and post-operative ileus (commonly referred to as GI stasis) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality following surgical procedures. Even minor anesthetic stress, changes in gut motility, or pain can precipitate a cascade leading to gut shutdown, dysbiosis, and death.

Clinical reviews and retrospective studies suggest that complications from adhesions, anesthetic stress, and unresolved GI stasis collectively account for as many as 40% of reported deaths following elective rabbit spay/neuter surgeries in general pet populations. This figure varies with surgical setting: the risk is substantially higher in small or toy breeds, older animals, or when procedures are performed in facilities without rabbit-specialized anesthesia, analgesia, and recovery protocols. Conversely, specialized rabbit practices with advanced anesthetic monitoring and recovery protocols may mitigate—but not eliminate—these risks.

Additional surgical complications include:
* **Adhesion formation** – Post-surgical adhesions can lead to chronic abdominal pain, recurrent ileus, or reduced fertility in partially sterilized animals.
* **Hemorrhage** – Rabbits possess fragile vasculature, making intraoperative bleeding a significant risk.
* **Respiratory arrest** – Due to unique airway anatomy and anesthetic sensitivity, airway management is more complex than in dogs or cats.

=== Endocrine and Long-Term Health Consequences ===

Beyond immediate surgical hazards, removal of functional gonads has far-reaching implications for rabbit health. Testosterone and estrogen are not limited to reproductive roles; they are critical regulators of immune function, skeletal maintenance, metabolism, and endocrine balance. Eliminating these hormones alters multiple biological systems.

Key documented and theorized long-term consequences include:
* **Increased risk of hormone-sensitive cancers** — Studies in rabbits and other mammals demonstrate that loss of gonadal hormones may predispose to pituitary adenomas, mammary carcinomas, and osteosarcoma (McClellan et al., 2020).
* **Bone density reduction** — Estrogen and testosterone regulate osteoclast and osteoblast activity. Early gonadectomy accelerates osteoporosis and osteoarthritis due to reduced bone remodeling efficiency.
* **Calcium metabolism disruption** — Rabbits already excrete calcium in a highly unique manner compared to other mammals. Hormonal removal exacerbates dysregulation, increasing the risk of bladder sludge, urolithiasis (calcium-based urinary stones), and renal compromise (Harcourt-Brown, 2002).
* **Immune suppression** — Evidence from lagomorphs and other species indicates that thymic and T-cell changes following neutering may compromise immune surveillance, reducing the body’s natural ability to identify and eliminate neoplastic cells.

Importantly, these effects compound with age, meaning rabbits sterilized early in life may experience a higher cumulative burden of skeletal, metabolic, and endocrine disease than intact counterparts managed in controlled environments.

=== Summary and Risk-Benefit Considerations ===

While spay/neuter may be warranted in specific contexts—such as for population control in multi-rabbit households, shelters, or when dealing with lines known to carry high reproductive cancer risk—the routine blanket recommendation for all rabbits, regardless of age, genetic background, or management system, is not evidence-based.

For many healthy, well-managed rabbits, the combination of:
* **Immediate surgical hazards** (notably the high incidence of post-operative GI stasis and adhesion-related complications, with up to 40% mortality in some reports),
* **Long-term endocrine deficiencies** (predisposing to skeletal disease, urinary pathology, and secondary cancers),

outweighs the potential benefit of reproductive cancer prevention, particularly in carefully bred populations with reduced genetic predisposition to uterine neoplasia.

This evidence suggests that sterilization decisions should be individualized, weighing the specific genetic risk profile, management setting, and surgical expertise available, rather than applying a universal, one-size-fits-all recommendation.

== References ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; text-align:left;"
|+ '''Key Peer-Reviewed Citations on Rabbit Cancer and Spay/Neuter Risks'''
! Scope
! Summary
! Citation
|-
| Immune Surveillance and Cancer Risk Post-Neutering
| Neutering in male cattle, rabbits, and guinea pigs causes thymus enlargement and reduced cytotoxic T cells, weakening immune surveillance against cancer cells.
| Skorupski, Katherine S., DVM. “The Gonadectomy Controversy.” ''Veterinary Practice News'', [pub date TBD], citing ''Frontiers in Veterinary Science'' (2019).
|-
| Hormonal Influence on Mammary Tumors in Rabbits
| Some mammary carcinomas in rabbits lack estrogen/progesterone receptor expression, but elevated prolactin (from pseudopregnancy or pituitary adenomas) has been linked with proliferative mammary changes and tumor risk.
| “A Review of Mammary Tumors in Rabbits: Translation of Pathology into Medical Care.” ''PubMed Central'' (2020).
|-
| Risks of Spay/Neuter Beyond Cancer
| Gonadectomy can lead to hormone imbalance, obesity, bone disease, endocrine disorders, and higher cancer risk—supported by cross-species data.
| Brent, Linda. “Review of Health Implications of Dog Spay/Neuter.” ''Parsemus Foundation'', April 14, 2020.
|-
| Surgical and Anesthetic Risks in Rabbits
| Rabbits face substantially higher perioperative mortality and post-surgical complications, including gastrointestinal stasis and adhesions. Risk varies by health status, age, breed, and anesthesia protocols. Mortality: 0.73–2.05% for healthy rabbits, up to 7.37% for sick rabbits; GI complications up to 38%.
| Pieper, E.G., Carter, J.E., Firestone, S.M., & Baron, H.R. “A review of perioperative mortality in pet rabbits in Australia.” ''Australian Veterinary Journal'' 103, no. 1–2 (2025): 3–12. https://doi.org/10.1111/avj.13391; Brodbelt, D.C., et al. “Risk factors for anaesthetic-related death in pet rabbits.” ''Veterinary Record'' 162, no. 12 (2008): 388–390; Lee, H.W., Machin, H., & Adami, C. “Peri‑anaesthetic mortality and gastrointestinal complications in pet rabbits: A retrospective study of 210 cases.” ''Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia'' 45, no. 4 (2018): 520–528. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaa.2018.01.010
|-
| Mechanistic Insights on Sterility-Induced Tumorigenesis
| In rodents, removal of germ cells and sex steroids combined with elevated gonadotropins drives ovarian epithelial tumors; a model relevant to rabbits.
| “Steroid Hormones and Experimental Ovarian Tumorigenesis in Rodents.” ''PubMed Central'', ''Animal Models of Ovarian Cancer''.
|}

==Summary Table of Evidence==

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Summary of Evidence on Spay/Neuter Risks in Rabbits
|-
! Theme
! Key Insight
|-
| Immune Dysfunction
| Neutering reduces cancer-resisting T-cells, potentially increasing tumor risk.
|-
| Hormonal Cancer Pathways
| Prolactin and hormone disturbances may contribute to mammary tumor development.
|-
| Broader Health Impacts
| Gonad removal is linked to bone, endocrine, obesity, and other systemic issues.
|-
| Surgical Risks
| High perioperative mortality due to anesthesia complications and GI issues.
|-
| Sterility Mechanisms
| Hormone and germ cell changes post-sterilization may promote tumorigenesis in models.
|}

Cancer

2025-08-16T17:48:27Z

BCAdmin:

= Cancer in Rabbits =

== Rabbit Cancer Risks vs. Surgical Risks of Spay/Neuter ==

In domestic rabbits (''Oryctolagus cuniculus''), one of the most frequently cited justifications for routine elective sterilization procedures is the prevention of reproductive cancers, with particular focus on uterine adenocarcinoma in does. Uterine carcinoma has historically been documented in poorly managed or indiscriminately bred pet lines, leading to its portrayal as an inevitable outcome in intact female rabbits. However, the true risk is considerably more variable than commonly presented.

Peer-reviewed studies indicate that lifetime incidence of uterine cancer in pet rabbits ranges widely between 8% and 60%, depending heavily on both genetic predisposition and the age profile of the studied population (Greene, 2021; Varga, 2014). In well-bred show or utility lines, where breeders have actively selected against uterine neoplasia for decades, the prevalence is significantly lower. As a result, the absolute cancer-prevention benefit of spaying varies dramatically between populations, and broad claims of "universal" risk are not supported by the literature.

=== Surgical Risks Unique to Rabbits ===

When evaluating the risks of spay (ovariohysterectomy) and neuter (orchiectomy), it is essential to consider the species-specific physiology of rabbits. Unlike dogs or cats, rabbits are obligate hindgut fermenters with highly specialized gastrointestinal tracts. Their digestive systems are extremely sensitive to disruption, and post-operative ileus (commonly referred to as GI stasis) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality following surgical procedures. Even minor anesthetic stress, changes in gut motility, or pain can precipitate a cascade leading to gut shutdown, dysbiosis, and death.

Clinical reviews and retrospective studies suggest that complications from adhesions, anesthetic stress, and unresolved GI stasis collectively account for as many as 40% of reported deaths following elective rabbit spay/neuter surgeries in general pet populations. This figure varies with surgical setting: the risk is substantially higher in small or toy breeds, older animals, or when procedures are performed in facilities without rabbit-specialized anesthesia, analgesia, and recovery protocols. Conversely, specialized rabbit practices with advanced anesthetic monitoring and recovery protocols may mitigate—but not eliminate—these risks.

Additional surgical complications include:
* **Adhesion formation** – Post-surgical adhesions can lead to chronic abdominal pain, recurrent ileus, or reduced fertility in partially sterilized animals.
* **Hemorrhage** – Rabbits possess fragile vasculature, making intraoperative bleeding a significant risk.
* **Respiratory arrest** – Due to unique airway anatomy and anesthetic sensitivity, airway management is more complex than in dogs or cats.

=== Endocrine and Long-Term Health Consequences ===

Beyond immediate surgical hazards, removal of functional gonads has far-reaching implications for rabbit health. Testosterone and estrogen are not limited to reproductive roles; they are critical regulators of immune function, skeletal maintenance, metabolism, and endocrine balance. Eliminating these hormones alters multiple biological systems.

Key documented and theorized long-term consequences include:
* **Increased risk of hormone-sensitive cancers** — Studies in rabbits and other mammals demonstrate that loss of gonadal hormones may predispose to pituitary adenomas, mammary carcinomas, and osteosarcoma (McClellan et al., 2020).
* **Bone density reduction** — Estrogen and testosterone regulate osteoclast and osteoblast activity. Early gonadectomy accelerates osteoporosis and osteoarthritis due to reduced bone remodeling efficiency.
* **Calcium metabolism disruption** — Rabbits already excrete calcium in a highly unique manner compared to other mammals. Hormonal removal exacerbates dysregulation, increasing the risk of bladder sludge, urolithiasis (calcium-based urinary stones), and renal compromise (Harcourt-Brown, 2002).
* **Immune suppression** — Evidence from lagomorphs and other species indicates that thymic and T-cell changes following neutering may compromise immune surveillance, reducing the body’s natural ability to identify and eliminate neoplastic cells.

Importantly, these effects compound with age, meaning rabbits sterilized early in life may experience a higher cumulative burden of skeletal, metabolic, and endocrine disease than intact counterparts managed in controlled environments.

=== Summary and Risk-Benefit Considerations ===

While spay/neuter may be warranted in specific contexts—such as for population control in multi-rabbit households, shelters, or when dealing with lines known to carry high reproductive cancer risk—the routine blanket recommendation for all rabbits, regardless of age, genetic background, or management system, is not evidence-based.

For many healthy, well-managed rabbits, the combination of:
* **Immediate surgical hazards** (notably the high incidence of post-operative GI stasis and adhesion-related complications, with up to 40% mortality in some reports),
* **Long-term endocrine deficiencies** (predisposing to skeletal disease, urinary pathology, and secondary cancers),

outweighs the potential benefit of reproductive cancer prevention, particularly in carefully bred populations with reduced genetic predisposition to uterine neoplasia.

This evidence suggests that sterilization decisions should be individualized, weighing the specific genetic risk profile, management setting, and surgical expertise available, rather than applying a universal, one-size-fits-all recommendation.

== References ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; text-align:left;"
|+ '''Key Peer-Reviewed Citations on Rabbit Cancer and Spay/Neuter Risks'''
! Scope
! Summary
! Citation
|-
| Immune Surveillance and Cancer Risk Post-Neutering
| Neutering in male cattle, rabbits, and guinea pigs causes thymus enlargement and reduced cytotoxic T cells, weakening immune surveillance against cancer cells.
| Skorupski, Katherine S., DVM. “The Gonadectomy Controversy.” ''Veterinary Practice News'', [pub date TBD], citing ''Frontiers in Veterinary Science'' (2019).
|-
| Hormonal Influence on Mammary Tumors in Rabbits
| Some mammary carcinomas in rabbits lack estrogen/progesterone receptor expression, but elevated prolactin (from pseudopregnancy or pituitary adenomas) has been linked with proliferative mammary changes and tumor risk.
| “A Review of Mammary Tumors in Rabbits: Translation of Pathology into Medical Care.” ''PubMed Central'' (2020).
|-
| Risks of Spay/Neuter Beyond Cancer
| Gonadectomy can lead to hormone imbalance, obesity, bone disease, endocrine disorders, and higher cancer risk—supported by cross-species data.
| Brent, Linda. “Review of Health Implications of Dog Spay/Neuter.” ''Parsemus Foundation'', April 14, 2020.
|-
| Surgical and Anesthetic Risks in Rabbits
| Rabbits face higher perioperative mortality from complications such as gastrointestinal stasis and post-surgical adhesions.
| “Spaying and Neutering.” ''Wikipedia'', last modified August 2025.
|-
| Mechanistic Insights on Sterility-Induced Tumorigenesis
| In rodents, removal of germ cells and sex steroids combined with elevated gonadotropins drives ovarian epithelial tumors; a model relevant to rabbits.
| “Steroid Hormones and Experimental Ovarian Tumorigenesis in Rodents.” ''PubMed Central'', ''Animal Models of Ovarian Cancer''.
|}

==Summary Table of Evidence==

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Summary of Evidence on Spay/Neuter Risks in Rabbits
|-
! Theme
! Key Insight
|-
| Immune Dysfunction
| Neutering reduces cancer-resisting T-cells, potentially increasing tumor risk.
|-
| Hormonal Cancer Pathways
| Prolactin and hormone disturbances may contribute to mammary tumor development.
|-
| Broader Health Impacts
| Gonad removal is linked to bone, endocrine, obesity, and other systemic issues.
|-
| Surgical Risks
| High perioperative mortality due to anesthesia complications and GI issues.
|-
| Sterility Mechanisms
| Hormone and germ cell changes post-sterilization may promote tumorigenesis in models.
|}

Cancer

2025-08-16T17:41:40Z

BCAdmin: /* References */

= Cancer in Rabbits =

'''Cancer in rabbits''' (''Oryctolagus cuniculus'') has been a subject of veterinary research for decades. Earlier claims suggested extremely high risks of uterine cancer in intact female rabbits, most prominently an oft-cited 1958 colony study reporting rates approaching 80%. However, modern evidence demonstrates that such claims were overgeneralized and based on a limited genetic pool. Contemporary studies show that the actual risk of uterine adenocarcinoma is substantially lower, highly dependent on age and genetics, and must be weighed against the surgical risks of spaying.

== Neutering of Pet Rabbits ==
Veterinary debate continues over whether routine spaying of all female rabbits should be recommended.
A 2016 article by Bradbury and Dickens questioned whether universal neutering was in rabbits’ best interest, noting that while spaying prevents uterine adenocarcinoma, it carries welfare and surgical risks.<ref>Bradbury, A.G., and G.J.E. Dickens. "Should we advocate neutering for all pet rabbits?" ''Veterinary Record'' 179, no. 24 (2016): 654–655. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28008120/</ref>

In response, some veterinary associations, such as the RWAF and BVZS, defended routine spaying, citing risk reduction. Yet first-opinion practice data, such as those reported by Martin Whitehead (2015), suggest that only 10–13% of does over 5 years old presented with uterine masses, meaning that 16–20 spays would be needed to prevent a single case of uterine cancer.<ref>Whitehead, Martin L. "Letter: Rabbit health." ''Veterinary Record'' 180, no. 3 (2017): 77. https://www.tesble.com/10.1136/vr.j826</ref>

== Should We Advocate Neutering for All Pet Rabbits? ==
Bradbury and Dickens emphasized that universal spay policies may not be justified, particularly in single-housed rabbits where social stress and pregnancy risk are absent. They highlighted the need to balance welfare costs, anesthesia risks, and potential benefits.<ref>Bradbury, A.G., and G.J.E. Dickens. "Should we advocate neutering for all pet rabbits?" ''Veterinary Record'' 179, no. 24 (2016): 654–655.</ref>

== Prospective Studies ==
Recent prospective and retrospective studies have provided more detailed prevalence data:
* A 2022 Finnish prospective study (Mäkitaipale et al.) found only 9% adenocarcinoma among 116 rabbits, with the most common finding being cystic endometrial hyperplasia (a benign thickening of the uterine lining common in induced ovulators).<ref>Mäkitaipale, J., N. Airas, S. Engblom, and J. Lindén. "Prospective survey of neoplastic and non-neoplastic uterine disorders in 116 domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)." ''Veterinary Pathology'' 59, no. 1 (2022): 78–87. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcpa.2022.01.001</ref>
* Walter et al. (2010) reported 59 cases of uterine disease over 7 years, of which 29 were adenocarcinomas.<ref>Walter, B., et al. "Uterine disorders in pet rabbits: a retrospective study." ''Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine'' 19, no. 1 (2010): 18–23.</ref>
* Künzel et al. (2015) examined 50 cases of uterine disease and found 27 adenocarcinomas.<ref>Künzel, F., et al. "Disorders of the uterus in pet rabbits: a histopathological study." ''Tierärztliche Praxis'' 43, no. 1 (2015): 35–40.</ref>

While these reports document uterine neoplasia, incidence rates in the general rabbit population remain unclear because the baseline population size is unknown. Most affected rabbits were 5–7 years old, suggesting that age is a primary risk factor.

== Neoplasia and Tumor-Like Lesions ==
A 2020 retrospective analysis by Bertram et al. of rabbit necropsy cases from 1995 to 2019 reported a variety of neoplasms, including uterine adenocarcinomas but also tumors of the skin, kidneys, and hematopoietic system.<ref>Bertram, C.A., et al. "Neoplasia and tumor-like lesions in pet rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus): A retrospective analysis of cases between 1995 and 2019." ''Veterinary Pathology'' 58, no. 6 (2020): 1032–1042. https://doi.org/10.1177/0300985820973460</ref>

== Types of Cancer ==
* '''Uterine adenocarcinoma''': The most widely reported reproductive cancer, typically in does >5 years.
* '''Mammary tumors''': Hormone-related, occasionally associated with prolactin disturbance.
* '''Renal neoplasia''': Sometimes appearing as cauliflower-like growths.
* '''Bone and pituitary tumors''': Less common but noted in case studies.

== Tumors ==
Gross pathology often shows uterine masses or, in renal cancer, irregular nodular growths resembling cauliflower. Some tumors are incidental findings during necropsy, rather than causes of death.

== Summary Table of Evidence ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Summary of Spay/Neuter and Cancer Evidence in Rabbits
|-
! Study
! Findings
|-
|1958 colony study
| Reported 80% uterine cancer; based on one genetic herd, not representative.
|-
| Whitehead (2015)
| 10–13% of does >5 years showed masses; NNT (number needed to treat) = 16–20 spays to prevent one case.
|-
| Mäkitaipale et al. (2022)
| 9% adenocarcinoma; most common finding was benign cystic endometrial hyperplasia.
|-
| Walter et al. (2010)
| 29 adenocarcinomas among 59 uterine cases (4.3/year).
|-
| Künzel et al. (2015)
| 27 adenocarcinomas among 50 uterine cases (4.6/year).
|-
| Bertram et al. (2020)
| Broad survey of rabbit neoplasia: multiple tumor types, not limited to uterus.
|}

== Conclusion ==
Current evidence shows that the risk of uterine adenocarcinoma in intact does is significantly lower than once claimed. While spaying eliminates the risk of uterine cancer, it introduces surgical risks, including a 0.73% perioperative mortality rate for healthy rabbits under anesthesia,<ref>Brodbelt, D.C., et al. "Risk factors for anaesthetic-related death in pet rabbits." ''Veterinary Record'' 162, no. 12 (2008): 388–390.</ref> as well as potential long-term morbidity from adhesions and gastrointestinal stasis. For this reason, veterinary policy remains divided, with some practitioners discouraging routine spaying unless specifically indicated.

== References ==
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; text-align:left;"
|+ '''Key Peer-Reviewed Citations on Rabbit Cancer and Spay/Neuter Risks'''
! Scope
! Summary
! Citation
|-
| Immune Surveillance and Cancer Risk Post-Neutering
| Neutering in male cattle, rabbits, and guinea pigs causes thymus enlargement and reduced cytotoxic T cells, weakening immune surveillance against cancer cells.
| Skorupski, Katherine S., DVM. “The Gonadectomy Controversy.” ''Veterinary Practice News'', [pub date TBD], citing ''Frontiers in Veterinary Science'' (2019).
|-
| Hormonal Influence on Mammary Tumors in Rabbits
| Some mammary carcinomas in rabbits lack estrogen/progesterone receptor expression, but elevated prolactin (from pseudopregnancy or pituitary adenomas) has been linked with proliferative mammary changes and tumor risk.
| “A Review of Mammary Tumors in Rabbits: Translation of Pathology into Medical Care.” ''PubMed Central'' (2020).
|-
| Risks of Spay/Neuter Beyond Cancer
| Gonadectomy can lead to hormone imbalance, obesity, bone disease, endocrine disorders, and higher cancer risk—supported by cross-species data.
| Brent, Linda. “Review of Health Implications of Dog Spay/Neuter.” ''Parsemus Foundation'', April 14, 2020.
|-
| Surgical and Anesthetic Risks in Rabbits
| Rabbits face higher perioperative mortality from complications such as gastrointestinal stasis and post-surgical adhesions.
| “Spaying and Neutering.” ''Wikipedia'', last modified August 2025.
|-
| Mechanistic Insights on Sterility-Induced Tumorigenesis
| In rodents, removal of germ cells and sex steroids combined with elevated gonadotropins drives ovarian epithelial tumors; a model relevant to rabbits.
| “Steroid Hormones and Experimental Ovarian Tumorigenesis in Rodents.” ''PubMed Central'', ''Animal Models of Ovarian Cancer''.
|}

==Summary Table of Evidence==

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Summary of Evidence on Spay/Neuter Risks in Rabbits
|-
! Theme
! Key Insight
|-
| Immune Dysfunction
| Neutering reduces cancer-resisting T-cells, potentially increasing tumor risk.
|-
| Hormonal Cancer Pathways
| Prolactin and hormone disturbances may contribute to mammary tumor development.
|-
| Broader Health Impacts
| Gonad removal is linked to bone, endocrine, obesity, and other systemic issues.
|-
| Surgical Risks
| High perioperative mortality due to anesthesia complications and GI issues.
|-
| Sterility Mechanisms
| Hormone and germ cell changes post-sterilization may promote tumorigenesis in models.
|}

Cancer

2025-08-16T17:40:12Z

BCAdmin:

= Cancer in Rabbits =

'''Cancer in rabbits''' (''Oryctolagus cuniculus'') has been a subject of veterinary research for decades. Earlier claims suggested extremely high risks of uterine cancer in intact female rabbits, most prominently an oft-cited 1958 colony study reporting rates approaching 80%. However, modern evidence demonstrates that such claims were overgeneralized and based on a limited genetic pool. Contemporary studies show that the actual risk of uterine adenocarcinoma is substantially lower, highly dependent on age and genetics, and must be weighed against the surgical risks of spaying.

== Neutering of Pet Rabbits ==
Veterinary debate continues over whether routine spaying of all female rabbits should be recommended.
A 2016 article by Bradbury and Dickens questioned whether universal neutering was in rabbits’ best interest, noting that while spaying prevents uterine adenocarcinoma, it carries welfare and surgical risks.<ref>Bradbury, A.G., and G.J.E. Dickens. "Should we advocate neutering for all pet rabbits?" ''Veterinary Record'' 179, no. 24 (2016): 654–655. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28008120/</ref>

In response, some veterinary associations, such as the RWAF and BVZS, defended routine spaying, citing risk reduction. Yet first-opinion practice data, such as those reported by Martin Whitehead (2015), suggest that only 10–13% of does over 5 years old presented with uterine masses, meaning that 16–20 spays would be needed to prevent a single case of uterine cancer.<ref>Whitehead, Martin L. "Letter: Rabbit health." ''Veterinary Record'' 180, no. 3 (2017): 77. https://www.tesble.com/10.1136/vr.j826</ref>

== Should We Advocate Neutering for All Pet Rabbits? ==
Bradbury and Dickens emphasized that universal spay policies may not be justified, particularly in single-housed rabbits where social stress and pregnancy risk are absent. They highlighted the need to balance welfare costs, anesthesia risks, and potential benefits.<ref>Bradbury, A.G., and G.J.E. Dickens. "Should we advocate neutering for all pet rabbits?" ''Veterinary Record'' 179, no. 24 (2016): 654–655.</ref>

== Prospective Studies ==
Recent prospective and retrospective studies have provided more detailed prevalence data:
* A 2022 Finnish prospective study (Mäkitaipale et al.) found only 9% adenocarcinoma among 116 rabbits, with the most common finding being cystic endometrial hyperplasia (a benign thickening of the uterine lining common in induced ovulators).<ref>Mäkitaipale, J., N. Airas, S. Engblom, and J. Lindén. "Prospective survey of neoplastic and non-neoplastic uterine disorders in 116 domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)." ''Veterinary Pathology'' 59, no. 1 (2022): 78–87. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcpa.2022.01.001</ref>
* Walter et al. (2010) reported 59 cases of uterine disease over 7 years, of which 29 were adenocarcinomas.<ref>Walter, B., et al. "Uterine disorders in pet rabbits: a retrospective study." ''Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine'' 19, no. 1 (2010): 18–23.</ref>
* Künzel et al. (2015) examined 50 cases of uterine disease and found 27 adenocarcinomas.<ref>Künzel, F., et al. "Disorders of the uterus in pet rabbits: a histopathological study." ''Tierärztliche Praxis'' 43, no. 1 (2015): 35–40.</ref>

While these reports document uterine neoplasia, incidence rates in the general rabbit population remain unclear because the baseline population size is unknown. Most affected rabbits were 5–7 years old, suggesting that age is a primary risk factor.

== Neoplasia and Tumor-Like Lesions ==
A 2020 retrospective analysis by Bertram et al. of rabbit necropsy cases from 1995 to 2019 reported a variety of neoplasms, including uterine adenocarcinomas but also tumors of the skin, kidneys, and hematopoietic system.<ref>Bertram, C.A., et al. "Neoplasia and tumor-like lesions in pet rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus): A retrospective analysis of cases between 1995 and 2019." ''Veterinary Pathology'' 58, no. 6 (2020): 1032–1042. https://doi.org/10.1177/0300985820973460</ref>

== Types of Cancer ==
* '''Uterine adenocarcinoma''': The most widely reported reproductive cancer, typically in does >5 years.
* '''Mammary tumors''': Hormone-related, occasionally associated with prolactin disturbance.
* '''Renal neoplasia''': Sometimes appearing as cauliflower-like growths.
* '''Bone and pituitary tumors''': Less common but noted in case studies.

== Tumors ==
Gross pathology often shows uterine masses or, in renal cancer, irregular nodular growths resembling cauliflower. Some tumors are incidental findings during necropsy, rather than causes of death.

== Summary Table of Evidence ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Summary of Spay/Neuter and Cancer Evidence in Rabbits
|-
! Study
! Findings
|-
|1958 colony study
| Reported 80% uterine cancer; based on one genetic herd, not representative.
|-
| Whitehead (2015)
| 10–13% of does >5 years showed masses; NNT (number needed to treat) = 16–20 spays to prevent one case.
|-
| Mäkitaipale et al. (2022)
| 9% adenocarcinoma; most common finding was benign cystic endometrial hyperplasia.
|-
| Walter et al. (2010)
| 29 adenocarcinomas among 59 uterine cases (4.3/year).
|-
| Künzel et al. (2015)
| 27 adenocarcinomas among 50 uterine cases (4.6/year).
|-
| Bertram et al. (2020)
| Broad survey of rabbit neoplasia: multiple tumor types, not limited to uterus.
|}

== Conclusion ==
Current evidence shows that the risk of uterine adenocarcinoma in intact does is significantly lower than once claimed. While spaying eliminates the risk of uterine cancer, it introduces surgical risks, including a 0.73% perioperative mortality rate for healthy rabbits under anesthesia,<ref>Brodbelt, D.C., et al. "Risk factors for anaesthetic-related death in pet rabbits." ''Veterinary Record'' 162, no. 12 (2008): 388–390.</ref> as well as potential long-term morbidity from adhesions and gastrointestinal stasis. For this reason, veterinary policy remains divided, with some practitioners discouraging routine spaying unless specifically indicated.

== References ==
<references />

==Summary Table of Evidence==

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Summary of Evidence on Spay/Neuter Risks in Rabbits
|-
! Theme
! Key Insight
|-
| Immune Dysfunction
| Neutering reduces cancer-resisting T-cells, potentially increasing tumor risk.
|-
| Hormonal Cancer Pathways
| Prolactin and hormone disturbances may contribute to mammary tumor development.
|-
| Broader Health Impacts
| Gonad removal is linked to bone, endocrine, obesity, and other systemic issues.
|-
| Surgical Risks
| High perioperative mortality due to anesthesia complications and GI issues.
|-
| Sterility Mechanisms
| Hormone and germ cell changes post-sterilization may promote tumorigenesis in models.
|}

Cancer

2025-08-16T17:37:14Z

BCAdmin:

Cancer in Rabbits

The 80% study is from one colony in 1958. New evidence shows it's much much less likely, and highly tied to genetics

gleaned from these looks like the initial 1950's study was based in ONE herd and in latter studies instances were all less then 40% total occurrence of cancer . And that included all forms of tumors present at time of death. And the numbers were rabbits who died WITH lesions. Not rabbits that died FROM lesions. its grievously dishonest to claim an 80% chance of specifically uterine cancer , when uterine cancer conservatively was14%. And mostly occurred in rabbits older then 6 years.

There are multiple studies and opinions now arguing against spaying female rabbits.

"In my practice, for all 53 entire does
presented for which we had both an age at
death and an entry in the clinical records
about the death, age at death averaged
4.9±2.9 years (median 5.0 years). Of the
61 entire does older than six months that
were examined at or within a few days
before death, only three (ages 5.5, >6, and
7.2 years) had evidence of caudal or midabdominal
tumours – each euthanased
because of the tumours. For one case,
ultrasonography indicated the tumour was
uterine, the others were palpated only.
For one additional rabbit (6.8 years) the
vet queried whether she was palpating
an abdominal mass or the caecum. No
currently living does have evidence of
abdominal masses.
These ‘messy’ first-opinion data indicate
that (i) only 10 to 13 per cent of entire
does of 5.0 years or older had a clinically
detectable abdominal mass consistent with
a uterine tumour at the time of death, and
(ii) if my practice had spayed these 61 does
when young, we would have prevented
uterine tumours in only three, possibly
four (five to six per cent), of them. In other
words, to prevent one case of uterine cancer
we would have to spay 16 to 20 does.
As Bradbury and Dickens emphasise,
spaying has welfare costs and health
risks. The anaesthetic-related death rate
of healthy rabbits within 48 hours is 0.73
per cent (Brodbelt and others 2008) and
rabbits can have longer-term morbidity
and mortality as a result of adhesions –
our practice has lost a rabbit to caudal
abdominal adhesions strangulating the
colon. At what number of young rabbit
spays does the welfare cost equal the benefit
of preventing one uterine tumour in an
older doe? There are other reasons to spay
rabbits, but after consideration, my policy is
to discourage spaying of does, whether kept
singly, with other females, or with neutered
or entire males (in which case I encourage
castration), unless there is a specific
indication to do so." -Martin L. Whitehead, Chipping Norton
Veterinary Hospital.

Whitehead is referencing "Should we advocate neutering for all pet rabbits?" By AG Bradbury, GJE Dickens, Veterinary Record, 2016.

https://www.tesble.com/10.1136/vr.j826
Letters
rabbit heath
===Neutering of pet rabbits===
BRADBURY and Dickens (VR, December
24/31, 2016, vol 179, pp 654-655)
question whether vets should advocate
neutering all pet rabbits and conclude that
that recommendation may not be optimal
for the welfare of single-housed rabbits.
Saunders and Stidworthy of the Rabbit
Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF)
and British Veterinary Zoological Society
(BVZS), disagree (VR, January 21, 2017,
vol 180, p 77). For does, a large part of
Saunders and Stidworthy’s argument is
that, although uterine adenocarcinomas
may not be as common in pet rabbits
as historically believed (Whitehead
2015), they are nevertheless not rare, and
spaying females prevents these tumours.
Here, I argue that these tumours may be
sufficiently uncommon that it is not clear
that the health and welfare costs associated
with spaying the number of rabbits
needed to prevent a single case of uterine
adenocarcinoma are justified.
Three retrospective studies provide
information on age of occurrence of uterine
adenocarcinomas in pet rabbits. Saito
and others (2002) reported on 47 rabbit
laparotomies for uterine disease over 2.5
years, finding 10 adenocarcinomas and
five adenomas (six cases/year). Walter
and others (2010) reported on 59 rabbits
with uterine disease over seven years, of
which 29 had adenocarcinoma and one
adenoma (4.3 cases/year). Kunzel and
others (2015) found 27 adenocarcinomas
and two adenomas in 50 pet rabbits with
histopathological uterine changes over 6.3
years (4.6 cases/year). The mean age of
the adenocarcinoma/adenoma cases was
5.0, 6.1 and 5.6 years, respectively. Some
of the tumours were incidental findings.
These studies do not indicate the incidence
or prevalence of adenocarcinomas in the
rabbit population, because the size of the
populations the samples came from are
unknown, although 4.3 to six tumours per
year suggests that these tumours are neither
rare nor very common.
Ruelokke and others (2014) examined
33 pet rabbits over 42 months old and
found a 24.4 per cent prevalence of firm
uterine masses, all in rabbits over 60
months, with all three rabbits over 96
months having a palpable uterine mass.
How many rabbits live to be five or
more? In the Netherlands, average lifespan
was 4.2 years (Schepers and others 2009).
Craven and others (2016) reported a median
age at death of rabbits in UK first-opinion
practices in 2013 of four years (interquartile
range: 1.9 to 6.7 years), with 39 per cent
of rabbits living beyond five years. A small
proportion of rabbits – less than five per
cent of those presented to my practice –
live to be 10 or more (Lennox 2010) and
it is possible that rabbits that present to
veterinary practices live longer on average
than those that do not. The proportion of
entire does living long enough to be at high
risk of uterine tumours may be relatively
small.
In my practice, for all 53 entire does
presented for which we had both an age at
death and an entry in the clinical records
about the death, age at death averaged
4.9±2.9 years (median 5.0 years). Of the
61 entire does older than six months that
were examined at or within a few days
before death, only three (ages 5.5, >6, and
7.2 years) had evidence of caudal or midabdominal tumours – each euthanased
because of the tumours. For one case,
ultrasonography indicated the tumour was
uterine, the others were palpated only.
For one additional rabbit (6.8 years) the
vet queried whether she was palpating
an abdominal mass or the caecum. No
currently living does have evidence of
abdominal masses.
These ‘messy’ first-opinion data indicate
that (i) only 10 to 13 per cent of entire
does of 5.0 years or older had a clinically
detectable abdominal mass consistent with
a uterine tumour at the time of death, and
(ii) if my practice had spayed these 61 does
when young, we would have prevented
uterine tumours in only three, possibly
four (five to six per cent), of them. In other
words, to prevent one case of uterine cancer
we would have to spay 16 to 20 does.
As Bradbury and Dickens emphasise,
spaying has welfare costs and health
risks. The anaesthetic-related death rate
of healthy rabbits within 48 hours is 0.73
per cent (Brodbelt and others 2008) and
rabbits can have longer-term morbidity
and mortality as a result of adhesions –
our practice has lost a rabbit to caudal
abdominal adhesions strangulating the
colon. At what number of young rabbit
spays does the welfare cost equal the benefit
of preventing one uterine tumour in an
older doe? There are other reasons to spay
rabbits, but after consideration, my policy is
to discourage spaying of does, whether kept
singly, with other females, or with neutered
or entire males (in which case I encourage
castration), unless there is a specific
indication to do so.
My future policy is contingent on better
evidence. It took me about five hours to
search our practice management system for
deceased entire does, determine their age at
death and whether there was any evidence
of abdominal tumours in the period leading
up to death. If the RWAF and BVZS could
arrange for perhaps 20 other practices
to do the same, that would constitute
an empirically useful, if scientifically
imperfect, estimate of number-needed-tospay to prevent one case of uterine tumour,
to inform policy regarding whether to
neuter does.
Martin L. Whitehead, Chipping Norton
Veterinary Hospital, Banbury Road,
Chipping Norton, Oxon OX7 5SY
e-mail: martincnvets@gmail.com

===Should we advocate neutering for all pet rabbits?===
A G Bradbury 1, G J E Dickens 1
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28008120/

===Prospective survey of neoplastic and non-neoplastic uterine disorders in 116 domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)===
Author links open overlay panel
Johanna Mäkitaipale a,
Niina Airas b, Sanna Engblom b, Jere Lindén b c
A January 2022 study found only 9% adenocarcinoma present in their sample.
Thier main findings were cystic endometrial hyperplasia. They acknowledge the study limitations.... and do not account for rabbits lacking a steady estrus cycle, therefore the endometrial lining would remain thickened on histology findings. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1557506322000015
cystic endometrial hyperplasia is not cancer, it's simply the endometrial lining being thick and proliferating cells... which would be normal given that rabbits are induced ovulators and their uterus needs to be in a constant state of conception readiness.
The findings in this study are concurrent with the logic from Martin Whitehead's policy on not spaying, as you'd have to spay 20 young rabbits to prevent 1 case of adenocarcinoma in an older doe. Given the risks from anesthesia, both on the table and post surgical anesthesia induced GI stasis, post operative abdominal adhesions. The risk to benefit ratio weighs much higher on risk to female rabbits being spayed.

===Neoplasia and Tumor-Like Lesions in Pet Rabbits===
[https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33213301/ Neoplasia and Tumor-Like Lesions in Pet Rabbits ]( Oryctolagus cuniculus): A Retrospective Analysis of Cases Between 1995 and 2019
Christof A Bertram 1, Beate Bertram 1, Alexander Bartel 1, Anja Ewringmann 2, Marco A Fragoso-Garcia 1, Nancy A Erickson 1, Kerstin Müller 1, Robert Klopfleisch 1
Affiliations expand
PMID: 33213301 DOI: 10.1177/0300985820973460

==Types of Cancer==

Kidney cancer looks like bumps of cauliflower coming out of the kidney.

== Tumors==

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0300985820973460

==Summary Table of Evidence==

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Summary of Evidence on Spay/Neuter Risks in Rabbits
|-
! Theme
! Key Insight
|-
| Immune Dysfunction
| Neutering reduces cancer-resisting T-cells, potentially increasing tumor risk.
|-
| Hormonal Cancer Pathways
| Prolactin and hormone disturbances may contribute to mammary tumor development.
|-
| Broader Health Impacts
| Gonad removal is linked to bone, endocrine, obesity, and other systemic issues.
|-
| Surgical Risks
| High perioperative mortality due to anesthesia complications and GI issues.
|-
| Sterility Mechanisms
| Hormone and germ cell changes post-sterilization may promote tumorigenesis in models.
|}

Rabbit Feeding Guide

2025-08-12T00:45:02Z

BCAdmin: /* Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D. — University of Wisconsin-Madison */

= Introduction =

If you search online, you’ll repeatedly find the claim that rabbits should have diets consisting of 80% hay or even an all-hay diet. This recommendation largely originates from the House Rabbit Society (HRS), an extreme animal rights organization that has promoted this 80% hay diet and associated messaging for decades. Oxbow Animal Health, a major supplier of rabbit food, partners with HRS and provides funding, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

For over 20 years, the House Rabbit Society has engaged with soon-to-be exotic animal veterinarians (DVMs), offering support to help them start their practices focused on rabbits. This relationship has resulted in many veterinarians adopting HRS-influenced care practices, which include the widely promoted 80% hay diet. Consequently, this diet recommendation has become entrenched despite significant flaws.

If you review rabbit care guidelines from major universities such as Purdue, UC Davis, Colorado State University, and Washington State University, you’ll notice HRS’s influence in their citations and fine print. This is reflected in feeding recommendations on Oxbow product packaging, which dominate the pet rabbit market. The resulting proliferation of this diet advice has perpetuated misinformation.

An important historical note: in the 1990s, the House Rabbit Society conflated care advice for rabbits and cavies (guinea pigs), even suggesting they could share diets and housing. When it became clear that cavies and rabbits can transmit diseases to each other , HRS retracted the cohabitation advice—but never revisited or corrected their dietary stance for rabbits.

Further scrutiny reveals that much of the 80% hay diet recommendation traces back to a single book co-authored by Susan Brown and Jeff Jenkins titled *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets* (1993). This book, difficult to obtain today, was frequently cited by HRS and related groups as a definitive source for the hay-first diet. However, more recent research by F. Lebas and others has discredited the outdated nutritional guidance in this book. The diet promoted therein fails to meet the minimum nutritional requirements for maintaining healthy rabbits.

Therefore, the House Rabbit Society is not a reliable source for rabbit care information. Their recommendations are often outdated or inaccurate and don’t always reflect current research. For trustworthy guidance, consult the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), the World Rabbit Congress, or reputable breeders ' organizations with access to the latest research and expertise.

One fundamental reason rabbits and cavies require different diets is their distinct gut microbiota, despite some anatomical similarities. A 2017 study by Crowley et al. using next-generation sequencing highlighted significant differences in the microbial populations between rabbits and guinea pigs, confirming that their digestive mechanisms differ substantially.

Furthermore, ARBA care guides, developed by a panel of veterinarians, recommend diets where pellets form the majority component, not hay. Supporting this, research comparing wild and domestic rabbits’ dental and digestive health found that hay is nutritionally poor and difficult to chew, often leading to malocclusion and periodontal disease caused by hay getting trapped between teeth. Wild rabbits are selective feeders, preferring high-nutrition fresh forage and resorting to dried grasses or hay only during starvation or severe winter conditions to survive.

== References ==
* Crowley EJ, King JM, Wilkinson T, Worgan HJ, Huson KM, Rose MT, McEwan NR. (2017). Comparison of the microbial population in rabbits and guinea pigs by next-generation sequencing. PLoS ONE 12(2): e0165779. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0165779
* Jenkins J., Brown S. (1993). *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets*. [Publisher info if available]
* [Link to ARBA Care Guides]
* [Link to World Rabbit Congress resources]

= Pellet Feeding Recommendations =

[[File:RabbitFeeding-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Rabbits do best on a Complete Balanced Alfalfa Based Pellet. 16% protein, 15-20% Fiber.]]

The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recommends feeding a completely balanced pellet as the primary and main source of nutrition for domestic rabbits. When selecting a suitable pellet, it is important to use a baseline of approximately:

* 16% crude protein
* 18% crude fiber
* A grass or legume-based ingredient as the first listed component on the label

These specifications help ensure that your rabbits receive sufficient nutrients for maintenance, growth, and reproductive performance.

Most feeding guidelines recommend providing pellets twice daily, with the total daily amount equaling approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of the rabbit’s ideal adult body weight. Rabbits are crepuscular by nature—most active during dawn and dusk—with periods of rest and digestion during the day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would be fed roughly 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and another 5 ounces in the evening.

It is recommended that a completely balanced pellet constitute between 80% and 100% of a rabbit’s overall diet. This approach helps to ensure that the rabbit’s nutritional requirements are met in a consistent and controlled manner.

Fresh vegetables and greens should be limited to no more than one or two tablespoons total per day. These fresh plants are best used in small quantities for their supplemental or medicinal properties rather than as a primary nutrient source. Feeding excessive fresh fruits or vegetables can disrupt the delicate balance of the rabbit’s hindgut flora and motility, which may result in bacterial overgrowth, gastrointestinal stasis, and potentially fatal bloat.

== Why is Oxbow not recommended? ==

Oxbow is one of the most widely marketed rabbit pellet brands and is often promoted by the House Rabbit Society. However, Oxbow’s formulation tends to have lower protein levels and higher fiber content than what is considered optimal for rabbit health. While rabbits fed Oxbow pellets may survive, their long-term health and condition often suffer.

To put this in perspective, a rabbit’s diet must provide a minimum of 14% digestible protein energy (DE) to maintain condition and support normal metabolic functions. This generally translates to a feed containing about 16% crude protein on a dry matter (DM) basis. A pellet containing only 14% crude protein DM provides closer to 12% DE protein, which is barely enough to sustain life, let alone promote growth or healthy fur and muscle maintenance.

Rabbits consuming diets low in digestible protein often develop a flabby, wasted body condition and exhibit constant shedding or poor coat quality. In addition, fiber levels in the diet should not exceed approximately 22% to prevent the dilution of essential nutrients. If the protein content decreases, the fiber content should decrease proportionally. For example, an Oxbow formula with 14% crude protein and 25% fiber will have a further reduced bioavailability of essential nutrients, with only about 9% DE protein effectively available to the animal, leading to malnutrition and poor health outcomes.

For these reasons, feeds such as ADM Pen Pals 16%, which contains no whole or ground corn and is balanced for all life stages, are preferred. Other recommended brands or formulations include:

* Small World 16% by Manna Pro
* Kambalch 16%
* Rowe 16%
* Hienold Commercial or Wool Formula
* Pen Pals 16%

These recommended pellets are typically alfalfa-based and contain a minimum of 16% crude protein DM with fiber content ranging between 15% and 22%. It is also advisable to avoid feeds containing whole corn kernels, which provide poor-quality nutrition. However, corn distillers, which contain the protein-rich germ without the hull or starch, are acceptable as an ingredient.

== Nuanced Feeding Recommendations ==

=== Feeding Nursing and Pregnant Does ===

Nursing and pregnancy have significantly increased protein and energy requirements to support fetal growth and subsequent milk production. For the first two weeks of pregnancy, it is generally recommended to maintain the doe on a standard maintenance diet containing about 16% protein.

Starting in the third week of pregnancy, the diet should be gradually transitioned to a higher protein ratio, around 18%, to meet the increased nutritional demands. Once the doe has given birth and is nursing kits, she should be allowed free access to a high-quality 18% protein pellet to support continued milk production and recovery.

Several safe and effective feed additives can be included in the diet of nursing does to enhance milk yield. These include:

* Steam-rolled or traditional old-fashioned oats
* Calf manna
* Black oil sunflower seeds

These supplements should be offered in small quantities—generally half to one teaspoon per feeding—in a separate bowl to avoid contamination or waste of pellets.

Bananas (fruit only, no peel) can be offered to pregnant does in limited amounts to provide a natural source of potassium and sugars, which are beneficial during the late stages of fetal development. For nursing does, small amounts of banana peel can also be given, but care must be taken as the peel contains compounds that may induce uterine contractions. Therefore, banana peel should never be given to does before or during pregnancy but can be safely provided immediately after birth.

Additionally, Tums (either plain or fruit-flavored) can serve as a calcium supplement to nursing does. One or two Tums daily for the first few days postpartum can help boost calcium availability for milk production, with occasional supplementation continuing through the nursing period.

*Foods to avoid during pregnancy and nursing:*
** Plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae) should be avoided as they may dry up milk production. They can be given to does only after litter loss or post-weaning when drying up the doe.
** Banana peel must be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential to induce contractions, but it is safe after kindling.

=== Feeding Weanling Rabbits (8 to 20 weeks) ===

Weanlings are in a rapid growth phase and require a diet higher in protein to support development. They should be fed a complete pellet containing between 17% and 20% protein and given free access to ensure adequate intake.

=== Feeding Adult Non-Producing Rabbits ===

Adult rabbits not involved in breeding, gestation, or lactation have more moderate nutritional requirements. Protein levels between 15% and 17% are generally sufficient, provided the pellet contains a minimum of 15% fiber.

Pellets for non-producing adults can be based on timothy or alfalfa hay. Avoid pellets with a grain-based ingredient list, as these are less suitable for optimal rabbit health.

Daily intake guidelines remain at approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of ideal body weight, divided into two feedings per day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would receive approximately 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and 5 ounces in the evening.

=== Conditioning Show Rabbits ===

[[File:FINISHING MIX-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Diet can be amended for different life stages and for special conditioning]]

Show rabbits often require specialized dietary adjustments depending on the life stage or conditioning goals. Some common dietary supplements used to optimize coat quality, muscle tone, and digestive health include:

* **Coat Finishers:** Supplements rich in vitamin E and fat are often used to improve coat luster and texture. Black oil sunflower seeds (BOS) are a popular natural source of these nutrients.
* **Muscle and Flesh Conditioners:** Protein boosters such as whey powder, rolled oats, and barley may be added to the diet to promote muscle development and firmness of flesh, particularly before shows.
* **Digestive Aids:** Enzymatic supplements like papaya enzyme powder assist in nutrient absorption and can help break down ingested wool or fur during shedding seasons.
* **Fiber Supplements:** Small amounts of grass hays and beet pulp shreds can be offered to support gut motility and health. However, be mindful that beet pulp can be high in sugars, so quantities should be kept small. Shredded plain pumpkin is also used as a mild fiber supplement and digestive aid.

= Other Feed Additives =

== Proteins ==
Rabbits require adequate protein for maintenance, growth, and reproduction. While maintenance feeds with 12%-15% protein can sustain non-producing rabbits, a balanced ration containing around 16% protein produces better overall health and condition. Providing a single feed with sufficient protein for all life stages is often easier for management.

* Corn Distillers: Do not confuse whole or cracked corn with corn distillers, which are the protein-rich remnants after fermentation removes sugars. Sugars promote harmful bacterial overgrowth leading to bloat and GI stasis, so avoiding whole corn kernels is critical.

* Soybean: Studies show soybean is a superior protein source compared to cowpea or pigeon pea for growing rabbits. Cowpea varieties with high tannin content may harm kidneys and are not recommended as sole protein sources.

== Fat ==
Fats provide concentrated energy and are important for coat and skin health. Common fat sources include oils and black oil sunflower seeds, which also supply essential fatty acids and vitamin E.

== Carbohydrates ==
Carbohydrates provide energy, but care must be taken to avoid simple sugars that disrupt gut flora.

* Corn: Whole or cracked corn kernels should never be fed to rabbits. However, certain corn by-products (like corn distillers) are acceptable when used correctly.

* Oats and Beet Pulp Shreds: These are common carbohydrate sources that also provide some fiber.

== Fiber ==
Fiber is crucial for maintaining healthy digestive motility and preventing gut disorders. The quality and particle size of fiber directly influence gut health and immune function.

* Excessively high fiber (>25% Acid Detergent Fiber) dilutes dietary energy and reduces growth rates because rabbits cannot consume enough feed to compensate.

* Studies indicate that fiber particle size affects mortality, immunity, and gut bacteria populations in rabbits, with heterogeneous particle sizes increasing lignin content and digestive stress.

Common fiber sources include timothy hay and beet pulp shreds, which help maintain optimal gut function.

== Enzymes ==
Enzymatic supplements can aid digestion, especially during periods of stress or dietary transition. These include papaya enzyme and other proteolytic enzymes.

== Supplements ==
Additional supplements may be used to address specific nutritional needs or to support reproductive performance, coat condition, or digestive health. These are best used judiciously and tailored to the animal's life stage and condition.

== Notes and References ==
* See detailed reviews on fiber digestion and its effects on rabbit health (Gidenne 1996, De Blas 1999, Licois & Gidenne 1999, Bennegadi et al. 2000).
* Particle size and fiber content significantly affect mortality, immune response, and gut bacterial populations (source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108).
* Avoid feeding whole or cracked corn kernels; use corn distillers cautiously.

== Common Types of Hay and Their Nutritional Profiles ==

=== Timothy Hay (Phleum pratense L.) ===
* Protein: ~3–13.8% DM (varies with storage and age)
* Fiber: ~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7–10.9% DM

Timothy hay is popular for fiber supplementation but cannot support adult rabbits alone due to low protein and energy digestibility. Its lysine content is low, meeting only about 70% of growing rabbits' needs. Calcium content is low (~0.33%), which can be either advantageous or limiting depending on the overall diet.

=== Alfalfa Hay (Medicago sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~18.3% DM
* Fiber: ~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~4.5% DM

Alfalfa is highly palatable and widely used as a fiber and protein source. It promotes digestive motility and caecal flora balance. Inclusion recommendations vary but typically fall between 20–40%. High inclusion levels (>80%) have shown mortality reduction in some studies but may risk calcium overload in adults. Protein digestibility is moderate, limiting support for very rapid growth.

=== Red Clover Hay ===
* Protein: ~18.7% DM
* Fiber: ~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa up to 30% without adverse effects on growth or mortality.

=== Oat Forage (Avena sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~9.1% DM
* Fiber: ~34% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===
Includes timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermuda grass.

* Typically high fiber, low protein, vitamins, and minerals compared to legumes.
* Nutritional content varies widely by species and harvest conditions.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===
* Combines benefits of legumes (protein, minerals) and grasses (fiber).
* Balanced mixes (e.g., 1/3 grass to 2/3 legume) optimize nutrition and yield.

=== Bermuda Grass (Cynodon dactylon Pers.) ===
* Protein: ~9.8% DM
* Fiber: ~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~0.8% DM

=Rabbit Snacks and Treats =

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Recipes_to_Make_Treats_For_Rabbits Recipe page:]

= Debunked Studies Whose Information Is Still Used as “Evidence” for House Rabbit Society Propaganda =

=== Preference of rabbits for drinking from open dishes versus nipple drinkers ===
*Tschudin, A; Clauss, M; Codron, D; Hatt, J-M.*
*The Veterinary Record; London Vol. 168, Iss. 7 (Feb 19, 2011): 190*
\[[https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar\&cbl=2041027\&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ](https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2041027&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ)]

This study has been widely discredited and subsequently removed from platforms like ResearchGate and PubMed. The primary reason is the extremely small sample size: only **12 dwarf rabbits total**, which is insufficient to draw any meaningful, statistically valid conclusions. Despite this, the study’s findings are still sometimes cited as if they were definitive proof of rabbits’ drinking preferences, which is misleading.
---

=== Questionable Sources on House Rabbit Society (HRS) Care Pages ===

The House Rabbit Society care pages cite **three main sources** at the bottom of their nutrition and care articles. However, none of these sources provide peer-reviewed research or studies specifically supporting their claims. Instead, the citations lean heavily on credentials or opinion pieces with no empirical backing:

* Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison
* Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health
* Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

---

=== Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D. — University of Wisconsin-Madison ===
\[[https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan\_Smith\_CV.pdf](https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan_Smith_CV.pdf) CV]

Dr. Smith served on the House Rabbit Society’s National Board of Directors from 2002 to 2010 and has presented at their conferences and written lay opinion articles. Yet, she has no published research on rabbits and no peer-reviewed work on rabbit nutrition or health. Her rabbit involvement appears limited solely to her HRS board role. However:

* She has **no published research studies involving rabbits**.
* No peer-reviewed papers on rabbit nutrition or health.
* Her rabbit-related involvement appears to be exclusively as part of the HRS board.

This fact underscores the HRS’s own stance: they are primarily an activist organization, not a science-based authority. By using Dr. Smith’s academic title to back their advice without supporting research, HRS highlights their reliance on advocacy over rigorous scientific evidence.

---

=== Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA — Oxbow Animal Health ===

Dr. Kohles co-authored a study titled:
*“The Effect of Feed Form on Diet Digestibility and Cecal Parameters in Rabbits”* (December 2017)
[[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593\_The\_Effect\_of\_Feed\_Form\_on\_Diet\_Digestibility\_and\_Cecal\_Parameters\_in\_Rabbits](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593_The_Effect_of_Feed_Form_on_Diet_Digestibility_and_Cecal_Parameters_in_Rabbits)]

Key issues with this study:

* Sample size of **only 15 New Zealand rabbits**, divided into three groups of five.
* Experimental period followed a 45-day acclimation plus 30-day feeding trial.
* The study compared pelleted, extruded, and muesli diets (pelleted diet at only 14% protein).
* Findings were inconsistent depending on the digestibility estimation method used.
* Authors concluded diet composition mattered more than form, but results were inconclusive.

Despite this, Oxbow Animal Health, where Dr. Kohles works as VP of Technical Services and Research, is cited by the HRS as a major authority on rabbit nutrition. However, this study’s limited scope and contradictory results do not strongly support sweeping dietary recommendations.

---

=== Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal) ===

Dr. Fisher has authored a few opinion-based articles related to rabbit gastrointestinal disease, but these do **not** provide scientific data supporting nutritional claims cited by the House Rabbit Society. Examples include:

* [Gastrointestinal disease in ferrets and rabbits (Proceedings)](https://www.dvm360.com/view/gastrointestinal-disease-ferrets-and-rabbits-proceedings)
Focuses on gastrointestinal diseases and parasites causing bloat, but contains no diet-related research.

In his *Rabbit Medicine Overview* proceedings, Dr. Fisher briefly addresses rabbit nutrition with advice that reads more like a product promotion than a rigorous scientific review. The section:

* Lacks any supporting research citations, unlike other well-referenced sections of the paper.
* Provides general recommendations consistent with standard rabbit dietary advice but without backing data or critical analysis.

Key points from Fisher’s nutrition section:

* Emphasizes the importance of a diet high in fiber (20-25%) with low starch and balanced protein levels to maintain gastrointestinal health.
* Recommends a maintenance feeding guideline of roughly **1 ounce of high-fiber pellets per kilogram of body weight**, plus **ad libitum access to grass hays** such as timothy, oat, orchard grass, or meadow hay.
* Suggests pellets should be over 20% fiber and below 16% protein—specifications that conveniently match the nutrient profile of Oxbow’s own pellet products.
* Advocates feeding fresh leafy greens as enrichment and as a tool to monitor appetite in rabbits suspected of gastrointestinal stasis.
* Specifically promotes *Oxbow Critical Care for Herbivores* as an excellent syringe-fed nutritional support for anorexic rabbits.

**Critique:**

* The absence of any cited research undermines the credibility of these recommendations, making them appear anecdotal or opinion-based rather than evidence-driven.
* The nutrition advice aligns closely with Oxbow’s product line, raising conflict-of-interest concerns.
* No discussion is offered on alternative feeding strategies, potential risks of exclusive pellet feeding, or critical evaluation of fiber sources and digestibility.
* This section does not address recent research on rabbit nutrition that highlights risks of low-fiber diets or “salad-only” feeding regimes, nor does it reconcile the complexity of fiber types and particle size in rabbit gut health.

In summary, while the nutrition overview provides a superficially reasonable framework for rabbit diets, it falls short of scientific rigor and transparency. Its implicit promotion of Oxbow products further questions the independence of the advice offered.

* [Thinking of adding exotic mammals to your case load? (Proceedings)](https://www.dvm360.com/view/thinking-adding-exotic-mammals-your-case-load-equipment-needs-proceedings)
Reads like a marketing pitch for Oxbow Animal Health products rather than independent scientific guidance. The article by Dr. Peter G. Fisher does not provide detailed original research or deep nutritional information on rabbits either.

===Here’s what it does regarding nutrition ===

*Mentions inappropriate feeding practices as a common problem in exotic mammals, including rabbits.

*Advises vets to have exotic mammal diets on hand (naming commercial brands like Oxbow, Zupreem, Mazuri) to help clients start dietary changes.

*Suggests keeping fresh leafy greens available as examples and for appetite testing.

*Recommends Oxbow Critical Care for nutritional support of anorexic rabbits.

*Emphasizes the importance of client education on nutrition but doesn’t cite specific studies or give detailed feeding guidelines.

In other words, the nutrition coverage is very general, clinical, and product-oriented, mostly about what vets should stock or recommend, rather than presenting any primary research or independent nutritional analysis.

This article is more about veterinary practice setup, equipment, diagnostics, and handling exotic mammals, with a small section acknowledging diet importance but no rigorous evidence or data. It reads like a practical veterinary guide with vendor references, not a scientific nutrition paper.

---

### Summary of Issues with HRS Nutrition Sources:

* No peer-reviewed studies are cited in their nutrition advice.
* Two of the cited veterinarians (Fisher and Kohles) have only authored opinion pieces or small-sample studies that do not substantiate the claims made.
* Dr. Susan Smith lacks any published rabbit research.
* Some referenced studies by these vets actually support the use of complete, balanced pellets over “salads” or low-fiber, high-fermentable-carb diets—which the HRS article fails to emphasize or mention.
* The overall impression is that the House Rabbit Society’s nutritional guidance is **not based on rigorous science** but on opinion and marketing interests.

---

### Additional Reference on Feed Components:

Nutritive value of pine sawdust (used sometimes as bedding or feed additive):

* Crude Protein (CP): 1.8 to 3.5 g/100g
* Crude Fiber (CF): 39.5 to 74.0 g/100g

For comparison, Timothy hay typically contains:

* CP: \~3 g/100g
* CF: \~28 g/100g

[[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834\_NUTRITIVE\_VALUE\_OF\_SAWDUST](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834_NUTRITIVE_VALUE_OF_SAWDUST)]

=Feed Related Studies=

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Researchlinks#REFLECTIONS_ON_RABBIT_NUTRITION_WITH_A_SPECIAL_EMPHASIS_ON_FEED_INGREDIENTS_UTILIZATION Research Links ]

[https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding Rabbit Tracks: Feeds and Feeding April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension] 
Received: 23 May 2021 / Revised: 12 July 2021 / Accepted: 12 July 2021 / Published: 14 July 2021

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health] 
August 2013

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Effects of Rocket Seed Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, and Their Mixture on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Digestibility, Redox Status, and Meat Fatty Acid Profile of Growing Rabbits] 
April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION RECENT RESEARCH ADVANCES IN RABBIT NUTRITION] 
December 2000

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization Reflections on rabbit nutrition with a special emphasis on feed ingredients utilization] 
January 2004

==Feed related==

Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition
[https://www.academia.edu/8592261/Nutrition_of_the_Rabbit_Second_Edition?email_work_card=title Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition]
Mohammad Rifky

rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding

Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health==
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health

https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION

https://www.vetfolio.com/learn/article/nutrition-know-how-pet-rabbit-nutrition

General Feed Supplements

EFFECT OF DIETARY SELENIUM ENRICHED MICRO-ALGAE SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANTI- OXIDATIVE STATUS OF RABBITS UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IN SUMMER SEASON" by mohamed basyony===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/QllhK1c5L1FDbkFwNEdTNkY4UDI3QnpOTGlCSTRtQ0lNd1V5QTBKVWk2RT0tLXVVQjVtOEVNUm9ZQkIzOEZmY3orSWc9PQ==--c79ce43255800522b842d0c8be4f1a102ba46aaf/t/sPPdN-Qp4b4Q1-bhRvi1/resource/work/21619748/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_SELENIUM_ENRICHED_MICRO_ALGAE_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_AND_ANTI_OXIDATIVE_STATUS_OF_RABBITS_UNDER_HIGH_AMBIENT_TEMPERATURE_IN_SUMMER_SEASON?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Rk9LdEk3cUt6aDQwdEUvK0dPaHhvUkRVRk5iUzdlV05WelVvS3prZkJGdz0tLWZZRFZWUGN3N2ZNTTBFOU4zRElqQ0E9PQ==--bd7de4edfce98920e93a0b1c5d01a3591f51cc78/t/sPPdN-Qdcm7Pe-p67QM/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Effect of Zinc Supplementation on some Physiological and Growth Traits in Local Male Rabbit" by World's Veterinary Journal Editor===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UzR2b3BhSVl6QjFMeTk5bjR1dXQxYTNhZXBwQUh2UncxdFNBUVVjZkRoMD0tLTIrY1NFWVBnU05mWnNwZlFPUTlrM3c9PQ==--7ad74ccf2d833f46a06ba9dcf8a6f6d63038c707/t/sPPdN-QfnHV4z-kQ1wm/resource/work/32956665/Effect_of_Zinc_Supplementation_on_some_Physiological_and_Growth_Traits_in_Local_Male_Rabbit?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 1. Response of Growing Rabbits to DietsHamed A.A. Omer, AbdEl-Maged A. Abedo, Sawsan M. Ahmed, Azza M.M. Badrand Mervat S.M. HasaninLife Science..." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEd0VnRmek51ZDdkNlJBSVhaUlBmV1F1ekFPRUdKTUR3RjczdnVCVSs3MD0tLW1WVGgvc3M2aTdFUURKV2MwOXAwQ3c9PQ==--8aaaec6b132b8e0db8dc46fab39fe4e45b811b1b/t/sPPdN-Qgz1jJD-HxeW0/resource/work/8539516/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_1_Response_of_Growing_Rabbits_to_DietsHamed_A_A_Omer_AbdEl_Maged_A_Abedo_Sawsan_M_Ahmed_Azza_M_M_Badrand_Mervat_S_M_HasaninLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_4_?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 2. Influence of Flaxseeds Levels Supplementations on Blood Constituents, Carcass Characteristics and Fatty Acids Profile." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UThubG0wTEgrc1BKeEFnT3pycEF1OUxwVHZ6S1RGcVd1SkErVThPQnZqMD0tLXV5ZW5LVitIT0NhdDYvZnFuVWJlRlE9PQ==--4d0a1cc52d355dfd197363aa7fa6dc86b45cdf4a/t/sPPdN-QgG9ADH-bbjVAv/resource/work/12250987/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_2_Influence_of_Flaxseeds_Levels_Supplementations_on_Blood_Constituents_Carcass_Characteristics_and_Fatty_Acids_Profile?email_work_card=title

Agronomy: "Growth Performance and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients of Weaned Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Forms of Cocoa Pod Husk Meal" by Asian Online Journal Publishing Group===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L3IzQTZDNUVZWUF2NEwvZDV1Wkp0ZU52TU1meHJIY1dXYkt3UXU4T3E5UT0tLUl3SW9lQ0RZU3NhMjAwNjhIWWY3Y3c9PQ==--a3f206fa63664368e8bfde6eebd8f9470a3bdb2a/t/sPPdN-QpF3kHw-bqigTi/resource/work/35848207/Growth_Performance_and_Apparent_Nutrient_Digestibility_Coefficients_of_Weaned_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Forms_of_Cocoa_Pod_Husk_Meal?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF CHAMOMILE FLOWERS AS FEED ADDITIVE ON SOME BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS FOR GROWING RABBITS" by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YjZsSmVsM3AxM2F4enBmNkU5KzRuTVo2cFJKdUlDY3hVMGJSMDVRS2pwND0tLVN1V3FvTHc5MnI0NXFVbjBuQ1hnYUE9PQ==--3b3eadef9f6ebfe96bfa15eea7a3dfae8e494a31/t/sPPdN-Qpjmi1D-bdz6oo/resource/work/9329672/EFFECT_OF_CHAMOMILE_FLOWERS_AS_FEED_ADDITIVE_ON_SOME_BIOLOGICAL_PARAMETERS_FOR_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

The Nutritive Value of Zornia glochidiata as a Non-conventional Feedstuff in Rabbit in Sokoto, Nigeria" by Ndudim Ogo===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aUFMWjBISEJNMHVKZ080NjR5TGErcXpJRzJMelp0U0JtamU4Y2lvRFpJUT0tLVA2dEFmL0hEcGg0SFV2TG1teVlFaWc9PQ==--622e2baee790f8efb1144e9240ed1ada4b3fe5c8/t/sPPdN-QnogdXn-bc1HPX/resource/work/18711695/The_Nutritive_Value_of_Zornia_glochidiata_as_a_Non_conventional_Feedstuff_in_Rabbit_in_Sokoto_Nigeria?email_work_card=title

Performance of rabbits fed diets with varying concentrate and fodder ratio in north eastern region of Tripura" by Asit Chakrabarti===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MGIycnE2am5lK09CbkEzWnluM1JtaFFjNlk0UVUxSGpQTXNWTE1hS2VYZz0tLWsrdFc5bElVOHcyYmVzWkhrQmRSMVE9PQ==--5b5a30c634eeea396188f5f96e29e2476dd5cdd6/t/sPPdN-QmEt7ei-AvMTB/resource/work/39725417/Performance_of_rabbits_fed_diets_with_varying_concentrate_and_fodder_ratio_in_north_eastern_region_of_Tripura?email_work_card=title

Various Legume as feed and feed supplements

Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits" by Donald Chisowa===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SWR6b1dLWFNBb3pxbFh3VXNCUmxjWnFuV0hac1JuMnhjVERWUzh3djYwOD0tLTdwcXJ2VmJ1UTFTa0p5TzBCUFdlb1E9PQ==--e17ca3b4f9f183f27b84e94a67e75efe6ebf36f4/t/sPPdN-QoQRVXM-WNtJE/resource/work/11351185/Evaluation_of_soybean_Glycine_max_cowpea_Vigna_unguiculata_and_pigeon_pea_Cajanus_cajan_as_sole_sources_of_proteins_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Hamed A.A Omerand Azza M.M. Badr.Growth Performance of New Zealand White Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Pea StrawLife Science Journal 2013;10(2)" by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/U2pZNE5LYmdLY2NleXppeDhCb2owd2YxZ0FDNWJub2IzNmNsM0ZCNlpIQT0tLU51UHBhN3JGQ0ZmOWJYclJTdWRKNkE9PQ==--429eb979b597c8159c3230f2bb5e087f0b6765ca/t/sPPdN-QcSQb5L-bxcsdM/resource/work/8539260/Hamed_A_A_Omerand_Azza_M_M_Badr_Growth_Performance_of_New_Zealand_White_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Levels_of_Pea_StrawLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_2_?email_work_card=title

Effect of Chemical Composition of Alfalfa Hay on Several . Digestive Measurements in Growing Rabbits" by Rosa Carabaño===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/VldVYTkrN3FQVmVjZzBlT0tPSXFNN3lJWks5a0JDbSs2Nm0vWk5yNTAvZz0tLThQaE85MTc3Vlo2YmdwVSsrTFpJdWc9PQ==--90cc8df7accb7e7757b217e27490b7698e7cf5a0/t/sPPdN-Qa9cnMB-B2d8N/resource/work/24812249/Effect_of_Chemical_Composition_of_Alfalfa_Hay_on_Several_Digestive_Measurements_in_Growing_Rabbits?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF FEEDING OLIVE CAKE SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT BENTONITE ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aGhEa0Y3MXpTUm9QK0g4NS8rbGVZTmwyL3Q2Wmd1bFh0VzhhYTFkR1lGTT0tLWdvNlFRT0hhcEowVy9ESGpQTFplTHc9PQ==--e954ae63b78666fe8b6026136d1caa841a3244e7/t/sPPdN-QaECJQk-baz1zi/resource/work/36496594/EFFECT_OF_FEEDING_OLIVE_CAKE_SUPPLEMENTED_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_BENTONITE_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BLOOD COMPONENTS AND SLAUGHTER TRAITS OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE MALE GROWING RABBITS AS AFFECTED BY DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH CALCIUM, SODIUM OR POTASSIUM, IN SUB-TROPICAL EGYPT" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat== https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SU9MMGRUSEhLWGlNT20zaXdkTXEyUjJYYWlFaDI2RHRqNnZtYXF1Z1d6WT0tLUphSHIxRlRRbUZQQituR25Gc0dkK2c9PQ==--841cf9236890a2487e4a977273720546ef9a32dc/t/sPPdN-QaqqFUB-nAEXb/resource/work/12692254/GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_BLOOD_COMPONENTS_AND_SLAUGHTER_TRAITS_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_MALE_GROWING_RABBITS_AS_AFFECTED_BY_DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTATION_WITH_CALCIUM_SODIUM_OR_POTASSIUM_IN_SUB_TROPICAL_EGYPT?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/NHFKYlphcXg4VWNzZGVkSDVmVVFXYXlqOCtHSEVrd3RLN0NQN2xDZFZwYz0tLVVFcFpIZE9zV3pEWWRkU1Z5N09JcUE9PQ==--b6e433ce56d2392549ee5b405d73fa8c16e303ff/t/sPPdN-QaifWu2-bfmPBZ/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Influence of dietary benzoic acid addition on nutrient digestibility and selected biochemical parameters in fattening rabbits" by K. Fegeros==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/b2lheWJTUWNnUEVBTG5Ddm1YamhzSDQySGNZd0k1TVV1aE1ldmFVR1RGVT0tLUNLSk5MYmlvYW1kN29STUUzSCtPelE9PQ==--917462902d2600191af2d70536465a40bd316be4/t/sPPdN-QepHj7D-VtVZd/resource/work/30474431/Influence_of_dietary_benzoic_acid_addition_on_nutrient_digestibility_and_selected_biochemical_parameters_in_fattening_rabbits?email_work_card=title

COMMERCIAL ENZYMES

EFFECT OF USING COMMERCIAL ENZYMES TO IMPROVE DIETS CONTAINED PEANUT HAY ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by Fathy Atta===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OUJlVHFVTHozWlFQYW9idGdPUmJSUHJFZElZdGRXR3Fpc04rZU41N1IrZz0tLXlWY2FhdldaTll1Y1AwbEpxczAxbXc9PQ==--e16599d129e829b7da7a4ca4d6c379ce72e7532b/t/sPPdN-QeUbKK9-bxtmgk/resource/work/7230460/EFFECT_OF_USING_COMMERCIAL_ENZYMES_TO_IMPROVE_DIETS_CONTAINED_PEANUT_HAY_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

RESPONSE OF GROWING RABBITS TO DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF WHEAT SCREENING BY-PRODUCT WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION " by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bGpGeEkrdzZ3NE5PU2hKYUNZdmRQN1JMYjdqMU51RGc0clRmTStHTVhwbz0tLTF5bnhHY0V1TUxLNnZrR1N1WmdmVVE9PQ==--e42c63ee99bdc464d47fa63c8decab24ae97b4fb/t/sPPdN-Qc5erQc-bhct0a/resource/work/5108323/RESPONSE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_TO_DIETS_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_WHEAT_SCREENING_BY_PRODUCT_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_ENZYME_SUPPLEMENTATION?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF DIETARY CORN COBS AND ENZYMES SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWING RABBITS PERFORMANCE===
https://www.academia.edu/8019560/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_CORN_COBS_AND_ENZYMES_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWING_RABBITS_PERFORMANCE?email_work_card=title
Ibrahim abaza

EFFECT OF ENZYMES AND PROBIOTIC MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION TO THE DIET OF GROWING FEMALE RABBITS ON PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CRITERIA" by Mohamed El-Sagheer===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bFNjQ1hweHdXMU5jZStuaTVwR0FNMEl2S2FHYzNLa2twOExReE9oeU9OVT0tLUQ5RXdoNElpYzlpUGJCK0hmMnhseVE9PQ==--05cb9b9a585550db2c1c6d59abe3c29322dc3ee1/t/sPPdN-QaMLryt-K4jEZ/resource/work/11938475/EFFECT_OF_ENZYMES_AND_PROBIOTIC_MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION_TO_THE_DIET_OF_GROWING_FEMALE_RABBITS_ON_PERFORMANCE_AND_CARCASS_CRITERIA?email_work_card=title

REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION
[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION]
" REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION LEBAS F. Cuniculture, 87a Chemin de Lassère, 31450 Corronsac, France lebas@cuniculture.info ABSTRACT In this invited communication the author proposes a list of nutritional recommendations for rabbits of different categories: growing from 18 to 42 days, from 42 to 80 days, for breeding does according to productivity (40-50 kits weaned per doe/year or more than 50) and for a single diet suitable for all rabbits. Recommendations taking account the last published data, are divided in 2 groups. The first corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to feed efficiency: digestible energy, crude and digestible protein, amino acids, minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins. The second group corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to nutritive security and digestive health: different fibre components (lignins, cellulose, hemicelluloses) and their equilibrium, starch and water soluble vitamins. In a second part, 387 papers published during the last 30 years on raw material utilisation in rabbit feeding were analysed. In a total of 14 tables, the 542 corresponding experiments were summarised each by the identification of the raw material, by the highest level of incorporation used in the experiment, by the highest acceptable level, by the main ingredient(s) replaced by the raw material studied, and finally by the authors reference. Raw materials studied were those used in temperate as well as in tropical countries. The raw material were grouped according to the following categories : raw material used as single food (24 experiments), cereals and by-products (43 exp.), other carbohydrates source of energy (62 exp.), fats (27 exp.), full-fat oleaginous grains (10 exp.), oil cakes and meals (43 exp.), proteic seeds such peas or beans (42 exp.), miscellaneous sources of protein such yeast or leaf protein (18 exp.), animal products (21 exp.), non-protein nitrogen source such urea (9 exp.), forages (157 exp.), cereal straws, alkali treated or not (33 exp.), cover or parts of dried grains source of fibre such stalks, hulls or cobs (19 exp.) and industrial by-products usable as fibre source (51 exp.). Key words: nutritional recommendations, raw materials, data basis"

Effect of energy restriction in interaction with genotype on the performance of growing rabbits: II. Carcass traits and meat quality" by Z. Szendrő==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/ZTN1b3FROWR1aUZhWGM1Q0FJRk1XcWpSajlIRDdGUlZUakRXc21FRmxjaz0tLVNIdE1PS3ZtdnZuR1hWWm82UDg3U3c9PQ==--669990dfc647432f898e381ed8b9b41de23c78aa/t/sPPdN-QmqdKDg-bmjCCY/resource/work/13592540/Effect_of_energy_restriction_in_interaction_with_genotype_on_the_performance_of_growing_rabbits_II_Carcass_traits_and_meat_quality?email_work_card=title

Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by hadil samy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bDBFWG8wcXl1MlBnSjlyenBnUkhKL2FZTmVnYmtyVW9vbThrWGNwaERMOD0tLXY4WWFsRlpHU0FKWVRTRTlLTmRCRnc9PQ==--6433eef0d04443b5c7e946a1c73ae59282239da3/t/sPPdN-Qmh7hzB-insEp/resource/work/27823893/Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

DOI: Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by Fathy Abdel-Fattah==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L2g5dmN3WEx4d01hb3JHanJkL1pUQXhZSXBMd3JwczQyVGlGeUhaakFxcz0tLUFPYUloZy9HZnAzMU1wMklmcDUxcEE9PQ==--cf05b9d08abd2994dce26ca3b775a8a327b9c34f/t/sPPdN-QqEo2CE-fAfA5/resource/work/38091315/DOI_Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

INCLUSION OF DRIED AGRO-INDUSTRIAL STRAWBERRY BY- PRODUCTS IN GROWING RABBIT DIETS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/N0V6STlENndzVWprbmthVTJGZEtGcUVha0RzZ2dCWm5sVFZXSFI5VFRPOD0tLWMxRjUyRHpHZ2pyU0l3SGkyR2JXVGc9PQ==--bdf935bf33d5e21673da61a284addd06919e86b9/t/sPPdN-QhFdf7T-VUozM/resource/work/36496618/INCLUSION_OF_DRIED_AGRO_INDUSTRIAL_STRAWBERRY_BY_PRODUCTS_IN_GROWING_RABBIT_DIETS?email_work_card=title

Rabbit’s performance, health and meat quality improvement by phyto-additives" by Attawit Kovitvadhi==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bi8vWGZUcnVHM00zaDJSRklnOWVsV1VtMjlFQjFnQVNDN3VOUXJEQ3Z4Yz0tLXI0MndMN2J3UE8xZkNMbG5yV21YMmc9PQ==--c03893c550d192819f3dde5b88cb43c0251cfc1e/t/sPPdN-QqNsCkH-0zMCL/resource/work/19803703/Rabbit_s_performance_health_and_meat_quality_improvement_by_phyto_additives?email_work_card=title

PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIET CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TOMATO POMACE" by Mahmoud Elazab==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/eDNRMFl1YXdrb2ZTMGdxUkJTYkRTWDNzYkJoVHRVN2locDY1c3FjT3ZCcz0tLTB0R3RFeXZLNGduVlQvN2VQQ1ZaL3c9PQ==--b8af070801c6d13d7041b1060baf6b0b2f86db3f/t/sPPdN-QhbGBew-kbnLX/resource/work/35484427/PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_FED_DIET_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_TOMATO_POMACE?email_work_card=title

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/dVhDUDgwSXFFTHo0UVBldFNXOHFQVkhsbFZnVEphQm50U1FtK1BNc2JIRT0tLXZOQUhpcFFDZ2czSndMaXZDNGVWTVE9PQ==--3f889f2926497df89c9685f9795796f88b4c76c3/t/sPPdN-Qg4y1P2-UzbBy/resource/work/21181061/Growth_performance_carcass_quality_biochemical_and_haematological_traits_and_immune_response_of_growing_rabbits_as_affected_by_different_growth_promoters?email_work_card=title
Growth performance, carcass quality, biochemical and haematological traits and immune response of growing rabbits as affected by different growth promoters" by Youssef Attia]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/d1NVejZIa0VOYm5mUit1dG9xTVdkZ1VHOTB0QUM4aGhHS2xaTVQvcklSTT0tLS9zbXdWNDdBcXBnZFhySTA2Slhxdnc9PQ==--5649e5cdede150483096497d7b424e160c3a414a/t/sPPdN-QdV9eNq-9MtFF/resource/work/36496604/EVALUATION_OF_EGYPTIAN_TREE_WILLOW_Salix_safsafs_LEAVES_AND_ITS_FEEDING_AFFECT_ON_PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_RABBITS?email_work_card=title EVALUATION OF EGYPTIAN TREE WILLOW (Salix safsafs) LEAVES AND ITS FEEDING AFFECT ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBITS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEhlWjJsMlJyc3JCNDNVUlJUK05CaHR2V1NoYWMwVStxTlIrUWloZjEvbz0tLVZEdkJxZVYrc00zYm5aWE5kT0NTTEE9PQ==--b040db53fb351cf834d73ebd3dada957c02e4c95/t/sPPdN-Qfu5LUn-617sS/resource/work/36496613/UTILIZATION_OF_Ziziphus_spina_christi_LEAVES_AS_A_NATURAL_GROWTH_PROMOTER_IN_RABBITS_RATIONS?email_work_card=title UTILIZATION OF Ziziphus spina-christi LEAVES AS A NATURAL GROWTH PROMOTER IN RABBIT'S RATIONS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MzFNWE5hWklnWXhlcStJNExWNjBvcEhudjN1dTZNaVVjdzlnZGpyNVZnMD0tLU4veFVJRldVSElzRy9oN0k2U0tWa1E9PQ==--7562f212c75e4f5a0c8e066594e00fd0239031f2/t/sPPdN-QdyLbjc-qbmgV/resource/work/31846675/Effect_of_replacement_of_berseem_Trifolium_alexandrinum_L_hay_by_berseem_silage_on_performance_of_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title Effect of replacement of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) hay by berseem silage on performance of growing rabbits" by Hamed Gaafar]

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Oil added to feed]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YmlrSzU4SGRBZUJCbGViT0xjNDBZMk0vUGpVTzlFZnlWNjBtbFNSSGVMUT0tLWFlWGtLQVQycjFDSlU3ZmhTcURHdnc9PQ==--b809c3d7d0c75ba0dc95475b2ed5ba659e21e9b8/t/sPPdN-Qe1mzqP-AJQtS/resource/work/12250896/Improving_the_Utilization_of_Rabbit_Diets_Containing_Vegetable_Oil_by_Using_Fennel_Foeniculum_vulgare_And_Oregano_Origanum_vulgare_L_as_Feed_Additives?email_work_card=title Improving the Utilization of Rabbit Diets Containing Vegetable Oil by Using Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) And Oregano (Origanum vulgare L) as Feed Additives" by dr.azza badr]

Study of the effect of grape seed extract as a natural antioxidant on the performance of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits during summer season in Egypt Fawzia A. Hassan1; Khalid M. Mahrose2 and Mohamed Basyony3" by mohamed basyony
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Z0t1TlpMWlo4TjlkRmtURzkxY01MeWZMcEd2SmczNURyUE1GNm10Sy9jaz0tLWNBZ3pLMVZ6RDJ6dnJzeEhsRitsaGc9PQ==--3ea66988e3650ec90c1f8439baede86ffca6bf57/t/sPPdN-QdrCvu9-byFUwt/resource/work/21659194/Study_of_the_effect_of_grape_seed_extract_as_a_natural_antioxidant_on_the_performance_of_New_Zealand_White_NZW_rabbits_during_summer_season_in_Egypt_Fawzia_A_Hassan1_Khalid_M_Mahrose2_and_Mohamed_Basyony3?email_work_card=title

==notes to be incorporated ==

Rabbit Feeding Guide

2025-08-12T00:23:35Z

BCAdmin: /* Debunked Studies whose info is still used as "evidence" for House Rabbit society Propaganda: */

= Introduction =

If you search online, you’ll repeatedly find the claim that rabbits should have diets consisting of 80% hay or even an all-hay diet. This recommendation largely originates from the House Rabbit Society (HRS), an extreme animal rights organization that has promoted this 80% hay diet and associated messaging for decades. Oxbow Animal Health, a major supplier of rabbit food, partners with HRS and provides funding, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

For over 20 years, the House Rabbit Society has engaged with soon-to-be exotic animal veterinarians (DVMs), offering support to help them start their practices focused on rabbits. This relationship has resulted in many veterinarians adopting HRS-influenced care practices, which include the widely promoted 80% hay diet. Consequently, this diet recommendation has become entrenched despite significant flaws.

If you review rabbit care guidelines from major universities such as Purdue, UC Davis, Colorado State University, and Washington State University, you’ll notice HRS’s influence in their citations and fine print. This is reflected in feeding recommendations on Oxbow product packaging, which dominate the pet rabbit market. The resulting proliferation of this diet advice has perpetuated misinformation.

An important historical note: in the 1990s, the House Rabbit Society conflated care advice for rabbits and cavies (guinea pigs), even suggesting they could share diets and housing. When it became clear that cavies and rabbits can transmit diseases to each other , HRS retracted the cohabitation advice—but never revisited or corrected their dietary stance for rabbits.

Further scrutiny reveals that much of the 80% hay diet recommendation traces back to a single book co-authored by Susan Brown and Jeff Jenkins titled *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets* (1993). This book, difficult to obtain today, was frequently cited by HRS and related groups as a definitive source for the hay-first diet. However, more recent research by F. Lebas and others has discredited the outdated nutritional guidance in this book. The diet promoted therein fails to meet the minimum nutritional requirements for maintaining healthy rabbits.

Therefore, the House Rabbit Society is not a reliable source for rabbit care information. Their recommendations are often outdated or inaccurate and don’t always reflect current research. For trustworthy guidance, consult the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), the World Rabbit Congress, or reputable breeders ' organizations with access to the latest research and expertise.

One fundamental reason rabbits and cavies require different diets is their distinct gut microbiota, despite some anatomical similarities. A 2017 study by Crowley et al. using next-generation sequencing highlighted significant differences in the microbial populations between rabbits and guinea pigs, confirming that their digestive mechanisms differ substantially.

Furthermore, ARBA care guides, developed by a panel of veterinarians, recommend diets where pellets form the majority component, not hay. Supporting this, research comparing wild and domestic rabbits’ dental and digestive health found that hay is nutritionally poor and difficult to chew, often leading to malocclusion and periodontal disease caused by hay getting trapped between teeth. Wild rabbits are selective feeders, preferring high-nutrition fresh forage and resorting to dried grasses or hay only during starvation or severe winter conditions to survive.

== References ==
* Crowley EJ, King JM, Wilkinson T, Worgan HJ, Huson KM, Rose MT, McEwan NR. (2017). Comparison of the microbial population in rabbits and guinea pigs by next-generation sequencing. PLoS ONE 12(2): e0165779. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0165779
* Jenkins J., Brown S. (1993). *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets*. [Publisher info if available]
* [Link to ARBA Care Guides]
* [Link to World Rabbit Congress resources]

= Pellet Feeding Recommendations =

[[File:RabbitFeeding-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Rabbits do best on a Complete Balanced Alfalfa Based Pellet. 16% protein, 15-20% Fiber.]]

The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recommends feeding a completely balanced pellet as the primary and main source of nutrition for domestic rabbits. When selecting a suitable pellet, it is important to use a baseline of approximately:

* 16% crude protein
* 18% crude fiber
* A grass or legume-based ingredient as the first listed component on the label

These specifications help ensure that your rabbits receive sufficient nutrients for maintenance, growth, and reproductive performance.

Most feeding guidelines recommend providing pellets twice daily, with the total daily amount equaling approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of the rabbit’s ideal adult body weight. Rabbits are crepuscular by nature—most active during dawn and dusk—with periods of rest and digestion during the day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would be fed roughly 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and another 5 ounces in the evening.

It is recommended that a completely balanced pellet constitute between 80% and 100% of a rabbit’s overall diet. This approach helps to ensure that the rabbit’s nutritional requirements are met in a consistent and controlled manner.

Fresh vegetables and greens should be limited to no more than one or two tablespoons total per day. These fresh plants are best used in small quantities for their supplemental or medicinal properties rather than as a primary nutrient source. Feeding excessive fresh fruits or vegetables can disrupt the delicate balance of the rabbit’s hindgut flora and motility, which may result in bacterial overgrowth, gastrointestinal stasis, and potentially fatal bloat.

== Why is Oxbow not recommended? ==

Oxbow is one of the most widely marketed rabbit pellet brands and is often promoted by the House Rabbit Society. However, Oxbow’s formulation tends to have lower protein levels and higher fiber content than what is considered optimal for rabbit health. While rabbits fed Oxbow pellets may survive, their long-term health and condition often suffer.

To put this in perspective, a rabbit’s diet must provide a minimum of 14% digestible protein energy (DE) to maintain condition and support normal metabolic functions. This generally translates to a feed containing about 16% crude protein on a dry matter (DM) basis. A pellet containing only 14% crude protein DM provides closer to 12% DE protein, which is barely enough to sustain life, let alone promote growth or healthy fur and muscle maintenance.

Rabbits consuming diets low in digestible protein often develop a flabby, wasted body condition and exhibit constant shedding or poor coat quality. In addition, fiber levels in the diet should not exceed approximately 22% to prevent the dilution of essential nutrients. If the protein content decreases, the fiber content should decrease proportionally. For example, an Oxbow formula with 14% crude protein and 25% fiber will have a further reduced bioavailability of essential nutrients, with only about 9% DE protein effectively available to the animal, leading to malnutrition and poor health outcomes.

For these reasons, feeds such as ADM Pen Pals 16%, which contains no whole or ground corn and is balanced for all life stages, are preferred. Other recommended brands or formulations include:

* Small World 16% by Manna Pro
* Kambalch 16%
* Rowe 16%
* Hienold Commercial or Wool Formula
* Pen Pals 16%

These recommended pellets are typically alfalfa-based and contain a minimum of 16% crude protein DM with fiber content ranging between 15% and 22%. It is also advisable to avoid feeds containing whole corn kernels, which provide poor-quality nutrition. However, corn distillers, which contain the protein-rich germ without the hull or starch, are acceptable as an ingredient.

== Nuanced Feeding Recommendations ==

=== Feeding Nursing and Pregnant Does ===

Nursing and pregnancy have significantly increased protein and energy requirements to support fetal growth and subsequent milk production. For the first two weeks of pregnancy, it is generally recommended to maintain the doe on a standard maintenance diet containing about 16% protein.

Starting in the third week of pregnancy, the diet should be gradually transitioned to a higher protein ratio, around 18%, to meet the increased nutritional demands. Once the doe has given birth and is nursing kits, she should be allowed free access to a high-quality 18% protein pellet to support continued milk production and recovery.

Several safe and effective feed additives can be included in the diet of nursing does to enhance milk yield. These include:

* Steam-rolled or traditional old-fashioned oats
* Calf manna
* Black oil sunflower seeds

These supplements should be offered in small quantities—generally half to one teaspoon per feeding—in a separate bowl to avoid contamination or waste of pellets.

Bananas (fruit only, no peel) can be offered to pregnant does in limited amounts to provide a natural source of potassium and sugars, which are beneficial during the late stages of fetal development. For nursing does, small amounts of banana peel can also be given, but care must be taken as the peel contains compounds that may induce uterine contractions. Therefore, banana peel should never be given to does before or during pregnancy but can be safely provided immediately after birth.

Additionally, Tums (either plain or fruit-flavored) can serve as a calcium supplement to nursing does. One or two Tums daily for the first few days postpartum can help boost calcium availability for milk production, with occasional supplementation continuing through the nursing period.

*Foods to avoid during pregnancy and nursing:*
** Plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae) should be avoided as they may dry up milk production. They can be given to does only after litter loss or post-weaning when drying up the doe.
** Banana peel must be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential to induce contractions, but it is safe after kindling.

=== Feeding Weanling Rabbits (8 to 20 weeks) ===

Weanlings are in a rapid growth phase and require a diet higher in protein to support development. They should be fed a complete pellet containing between 17% and 20% protein and given free access to ensure adequate intake.

=== Feeding Adult Non-Producing Rabbits ===

Adult rabbits not involved in breeding, gestation, or lactation have more moderate nutritional requirements. Protein levels between 15% and 17% are generally sufficient, provided the pellet contains a minimum of 15% fiber.

Pellets for non-producing adults can be based on timothy or alfalfa hay. Avoid pellets with a grain-based ingredient list, as these are less suitable for optimal rabbit health.

Daily intake guidelines remain at approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of ideal body weight, divided into two feedings per day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would receive approximately 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and 5 ounces in the evening.

=== Conditioning Show Rabbits ===

[[File:FINISHING MIX-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Diet can be amended for different life stages and for special conditioning]]

Show rabbits often require specialized dietary adjustments depending on the life stage or conditioning goals. Some common dietary supplements used to optimize coat quality, muscle tone, and digestive health include:

* **Coat Finishers:** Supplements rich in vitamin E and fat are often used to improve coat luster and texture. Black oil sunflower seeds (BOS) are a popular natural source of these nutrients.
* **Muscle and Flesh Conditioners:** Protein boosters such as whey powder, rolled oats, and barley may be added to the diet to promote muscle development and firmness of flesh, particularly before shows.
* **Digestive Aids:** Enzymatic supplements like papaya enzyme powder assist in nutrient absorption and can help break down ingested wool or fur during shedding seasons.
* **Fiber Supplements:** Small amounts of grass hays and beet pulp shreds can be offered to support gut motility and health. However, be mindful that beet pulp can be high in sugars, so quantities should be kept small. Shredded plain pumpkin is also used as a mild fiber supplement and digestive aid.

= Other Feed Additives =

== Proteins ==
Rabbits require adequate protein for maintenance, growth, and reproduction. While maintenance feeds with 12%-15% protein can sustain non-producing rabbits, a balanced ration containing around 16% protein produces better overall health and condition. Providing a single feed with sufficient protein for all life stages is often easier for management.

* Corn Distillers: Do not confuse whole or cracked corn with corn distillers, which are the protein-rich remnants after fermentation removes sugars. Sugars promote harmful bacterial overgrowth leading to bloat and GI stasis, so avoiding whole corn kernels is critical.

* Soybean: Studies show soybean is a superior protein source compared to cowpea or pigeon pea for growing rabbits. Cowpea varieties with high tannin content may harm kidneys and are not recommended as sole protein sources.

== Fat ==
Fats provide concentrated energy and are important for coat and skin health. Common fat sources include oils and black oil sunflower seeds, which also supply essential fatty acids and vitamin E.

== Carbohydrates ==
Carbohydrates provide energy, but care must be taken to avoid simple sugars that disrupt gut flora.

* Corn: Whole or cracked corn kernels should never be fed to rabbits. However, certain corn by-products (like corn distillers) are acceptable when used correctly.

* Oats and Beet Pulp Shreds: These are common carbohydrate sources that also provide some fiber.

== Fiber ==
Fiber is crucial for maintaining healthy digestive motility and preventing gut disorders. The quality and particle size of fiber directly influence gut health and immune function.

* Excessively high fiber (>25% Acid Detergent Fiber) dilutes dietary energy and reduces growth rates because rabbits cannot consume enough feed to compensate.

* Studies indicate that fiber particle size affects mortality, immunity, and gut bacteria populations in rabbits, with heterogeneous particle sizes increasing lignin content and digestive stress.

Common fiber sources include timothy hay and beet pulp shreds, which help maintain optimal gut function.

== Enzymes ==
Enzymatic supplements can aid digestion, especially during periods of stress or dietary transition. These include papaya enzyme and other proteolytic enzymes.

== Supplements ==
Additional supplements may be used to address specific nutritional needs or to support reproductive performance, coat condition, or digestive health. These are best used judiciously and tailored to the animal's life stage and condition.

== Notes and References ==
* See detailed reviews on fiber digestion and its effects on rabbit health (Gidenne 1996, De Blas 1999, Licois & Gidenne 1999, Bennegadi et al. 2000).
* Particle size and fiber content significantly affect mortality, immune response, and gut bacterial populations (source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108).
* Avoid feeding whole or cracked corn kernels; use corn distillers cautiously.

== Common Types of Hay and Their Nutritional Profiles ==

=== Timothy Hay (Phleum pratense L.) ===
* Protein: ~3–13.8% DM (varies with storage and age)
* Fiber: ~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7–10.9% DM

Timothy hay is popular for fiber supplementation but cannot support adult rabbits alone due to low protein and energy digestibility. Its lysine content is low, meeting only about 70% of growing rabbits' needs. Calcium content is low (~0.33%), which can be either advantageous or limiting depending on the overall diet.

=== Alfalfa Hay (Medicago sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~18.3% DM
* Fiber: ~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~4.5% DM

Alfalfa is highly palatable and widely used as a fiber and protein source. It promotes digestive motility and caecal flora balance. Inclusion recommendations vary but typically fall between 20–40%. High inclusion levels (>80%) have shown mortality reduction in some studies but may risk calcium overload in adults. Protein digestibility is moderate, limiting support for very rapid growth.

=== Red Clover Hay ===
* Protein: ~18.7% DM
* Fiber: ~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa up to 30% without adverse effects on growth or mortality.

=== Oat Forage (Avena sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~9.1% DM
* Fiber: ~34% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===
Includes timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermuda grass.

* Typically high fiber, low protein, vitamins, and minerals compared to legumes.
* Nutritional content varies widely by species and harvest conditions.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===
* Combines benefits of legumes (protein, minerals) and grasses (fiber).
* Balanced mixes (e.g., 1/3 grass to 2/3 legume) optimize nutrition and yield.

=== Bermuda Grass (Cynodon dactylon Pers.) ===
* Protein: ~9.8% DM
* Fiber: ~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~0.8% DM

=Rabbit Snacks and Treats =

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Recipes_to_Make_Treats_For_Rabbits Recipe page:]

= Debunked Studies Whose Information Is Still Used as “Evidence” for House Rabbit Society Propaganda =

=== Preference of rabbits for drinking from open dishes versus nipple drinkers ===
*Tschudin, A; Clauss, M; Codron, D; Hatt, J-M.*
*The Veterinary Record; London Vol. 168, Iss. 7 (Feb 19, 2011): 190*
\[[https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar\&cbl=2041027\&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ](https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2041027&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ)]

This study has been widely discredited and subsequently removed from platforms like ResearchGate and PubMed. The primary reason is the extremely small sample size: only **12 dwarf rabbits total**, which is insufficient to draw any meaningful, statistically valid conclusions. Despite this, the study’s findings are still sometimes cited as if they were definitive proof of rabbits’ drinking preferences, which is misleading.
---

=== Questionable Sources on House Rabbit Society (HRS) Care Pages ===

The House Rabbit Society care pages cite **three main sources** at the bottom of their nutrition and care articles. However, none of these sources provide peer-reviewed research or studies specifically supporting their claims. Instead, the citations lean heavily on credentials or opinion pieces with no empirical backing:

* Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison
* Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health
* Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

---

=== Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D. — University of Wisconsin-Madison ===
\[[https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan\_Smith\_CV.pdf](https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan_Smith_CV.pdf) CV]

Dr. Smith served on the House Rabbit Society’s National Board of Directors from 2002-2010. She has been an invited speaker at HRS conventions and has written various opinion articles for the general public. However:

* She has **no published research studies involving rabbits**.
* No peer-reviewed papers on rabbit nutrition or health.
* Her rabbit-related involvement appears to be exclusively as part of the HRS board.

The House Rabbit Society seems to use her academic title and board membership to lend unearned authority to their opinions. This raises concerns about the independence and scientific rigor of the HRS, suggesting it functions more as an activist organization than a research-based source.

---

=== Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA — Oxbow Animal Health ===

Dr. Kohles co-authored a study titled:
*“The Effect of Feed Form on Diet Digestibility and Cecal Parameters in Rabbits”* (December 2017)
[[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593\_The\_Effect\_of\_Feed\_Form\_on\_Diet\_Digestibility\_and\_Cecal\_Parameters\_in\_Rabbits](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593_The_Effect_of_Feed_Form_on_Diet_Digestibility_and_Cecal_Parameters_in_Rabbits)]

Key issues with this study:

* Sample size of **only 15 New Zealand rabbits**, divided into three groups of five.
* Experimental period followed a 45-day acclimation plus 30-day feeding trial.
* The study compared pelleted, extruded, and muesli diets (pelleted diet at only 14% protein).
* Findings were inconsistent depending on the digestibility estimation method used.
* Authors concluded diet composition mattered more than form, but results were inconclusive.

Despite this, Oxbow Animal Health, where Dr. Kohles works as VP of Technical Services and Research, is cited by the HRS as a major authority on rabbit nutrition. However, this study’s limited scope and contradictory results do not strongly support sweeping dietary recommendations.

---

=== Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal) ===

Dr. Fisher has authored a few opinion-based articles related to rabbit gastrointestinal disease, but these do **not** provide scientific data supporting nutritional claims cited by the House Rabbit Society. Examples include:

* [Gastrointestinal disease in ferrets and rabbits (Proceedings)](https://www.dvm360.com/view/gastrointestinal-disease-ferrets-and-rabbits-proceedings)
Focuses on gastrointestinal diseases and parasites causing bloat, but contains no diet-related research.

In his *Rabbit Medicine Overview* proceedings, Dr. Fisher briefly addresses rabbit nutrition with advice that reads more like a product promotion than a rigorous scientific review. The section:

* Lacks any supporting research citations, unlike other well-referenced sections of the paper.
* Provides general recommendations consistent with standard rabbit dietary advice but without backing data or critical analysis.

Key points from Fisher’s nutrition section:

* Emphasizes the importance of a diet high in fiber (20-25%) with low starch and balanced protein levels to maintain gastrointestinal health.
* Recommends a maintenance feeding guideline of roughly **1 ounce of high-fiber pellets per kilogram of body weight**, plus **ad libitum access to grass hays** such as timothy, oat, orchard grass, or meadow hay.
* Suggests pellets should be over 20% fiber and below 16% protein—specifications that conveniently match the nutrient profile of Oxbow’s own pellet products.
* Advocates feeding fresh leafy greens as enrichment and as a tool to monitor appetite in rabbits suspected of gastrointestinal stasis.
* Specifically promotes *Oxbow Critical Care for Herbivores* as an excellent syringe-fed nutritional support for anorexic rabbits.

**Critique:**

* The absence of any cited research undermines the credibility of these recommendations, making them appear anecdotal or opinion-based rather than evidence-driven.
* The nutrition advice aligns closely with Oxbow’s product line, raising conflict-of-interest concerns.
* No discussion is offered on alternative feeding strategies, potential risks of exclusive pellet feeding, or critical evaluation of fiber sources and digestibility.
* This section does not address recent research on rabbit nutrition that highlights risks of low-fiber diets or “salad-only” feeding regimes, nor does it reconcile the complexity of fiber types and particle size in rabbit gut health.

In summary, while the nutrition overview provides a superficially reasonable framework for rabbit diets, it falls short of scientific rigor and transparency. Its implicit promotion of Oxbow products further questions the independence of the advice offered.

* [Thinking of adding exotic mammals to your case load? (Proceedings)](https://www.dvm360.com/view/thinking-adding-exotic-mammals-your-case-load-equipment-needs-proceedings)
Reads like a marketing pitch for Oxbow Animal Health products rather than independent scientific guidance. The article by Dr. Peter G. Fisher does not provide detailed original research or deep nutritional information on rabbits either.

===Here’s what it does regarding nutrition ===

*Mentions inappropriate feeding practices as a common problem in exotic mammals, including rabbits.

*Advises vets to have exotic mammal diets on hand (naming commercial brands like Oxbow, Zupreem, Mazuri) to help clients start dietary changes.

*Suggests keeping fresh leafy greens available as examples and for appetite testing.

*Recommends Oxbow Critical Care for nutritional support of anorexic rabbits.

*Emphasizes the importance of client education on nutrition but doesn’t cite specific studies or give detailed feeding guidelines.

In other words, the nutrition coverage is very general, clinical, and product-oriented, mostly about what vets should stock or recommend, rather than presenting any primary research or independent nutritional analysis.

This article is more about veterinary practice setup, equipment, diagnostics, and handling exotic mammals, with a small section acknowledging diet importance but no rigorous evidence or data. It reads like a practical veterinary guide with vendor references, not a scientific nutrition paper.

---

### Summary of Issues with HRS Nutrition Sources:

* No peer-reviewed studies are cited in their nutrition advice.
* Two of the cited veterinarians (Fisher and Kohles) have only authored opinion pieces or small-sample studies that do not substantiate the claims made.
* Dr. Susan Smith lacks any published rabbit research.
* Some referenced studies by these vets actually support the use of complete, balanced pellets over “salads” or low-fiber, high-fermentable-carb diets—which the HRS article fails to emphasize or mention.
* The overall impression is that the House Rabbit Society’s nutritional guidance is **not based on rigorous science** but on opinion and marketing interests.

---

### Additional Reference on Feed Components:

Nutritive value of pine sawdust (used sometimes as bedding or feed additive):

* Crude Protein (CP): 1.8 to 3.5 g/100g
* Crude Fiber (CF): 39.5 to 74.0 g/100g

For comparison, Timothy hay typically contains:

* CP: \~3 g/100g
* CF: \~28 g/100g

[[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834\_NUTRITIVE\_VALUE\_OF\_SAWDUST](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834_NUTRITIVE_VALUE_OF_SAWDUST)]

=Feed Related Studies=

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Researchlinks#REFLECTIONS_ON_RABBIT_NUTRITION_WITH_A_SPECIAL_EMPHASIS_ON_FEED_INGREDIENTS_UTILIZATION Research Links ]

[https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding Rabbit Tracks: Feeds and Feeding April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension] 
Received: 23 May 2021 / Revised: 12 July 2021 / Accepted: 12 July 2021 / Published: 14 July 2021

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health] 
August 2013

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Effects of Rocket Seed Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, and Their Mixture on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Digestibility, Redox Status, and Meat Fatty Acid Profile of Growing Rabbits] 
April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION RECENT RESEARCH ADVANCES IN RABBIT NUTRITION] 
December 2000

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization Reflections on rabbit nutrition with a special emphasis on feed ingredients utilization] 
January 2004

==Feed related==

Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition
[https://www.academia.edu/8592261/Nutrition_of_the_Rabbit_Second_Edition?email_work_card=title Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition]
Mohammad Rifky

rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding

Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health==
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health

https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION

https://www.vetfolio.com/learn/article/nutrition-know-how-pet-rabbit-nutrition

General Feed Supplements

EFFECT OF DIETARY SELENIUM ENRICHED MICRO-ALGAE SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANTI- OXIDATIVE STATUS OF RABBITS UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IN SUMMER SEASON" by mohamed basyony===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/QllhK1c5L1FDbkFwNEdTNkY4UDI3QnpOTGlCSTRtQ0lNd1V5QTBKVWk2RT0tLXVVQjVtOEVNUm9ZQkIzOEZmY3orSWc9PQ==--c79ce43255800522b842d0c8be4f1a102ba46aaf/t/sPPdN-Qp4b4Q1-bhRvi1/resource/work/21619748/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_SELENIUM_ENRICHED_MICRO_ALGAE_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_AND_ANTI_OXIDATIVE_STATUS_OF_RABBITS_UNDER_HIGH_AMBIENT_TEMPERATURE_IN_SUMMER_SEASON?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Rk9LdEk3cUt6aDQwdEUvK0dPaHhvUkRVRk5iUzdlV05WelVvS3prZkJGdz0tLWZZRFZWUGN3N2ZNTTBFOU4zRElqQ0E9PQ==--bd7de4edfce98920e93a0b1c5d01a3591f51cc78/t/sPPdN-Qdcm7Pe-p67QM/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Effect of Zinc Supplementation on some Physiological and Growth Traits in Local Male Rabbit" by World's Veterinary Journal Editor===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UzR2b3BhSVl6QjFMeTk5bjR1dXQxYTNhZXBwQUh2UncxdFNBUVVjZkRoMD0tLTIrY1NFWVBnU05mWnNwZlFPUTlrM3c9PQ==--7ad74ccf2d833f46a06ba9dcf8a6f6d63038c707/t/sPPdN-QfnHV4z-kQ1wm/resource/work/32956665/Effect_of_Zinc_Supplementation_on_some_Physiological_and_Growth_Traits_in_Local_Male_Rabbit?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 1. Response of Growing Rabbits to DietsHamed A.A. Omer, AbdEl-Maged A. Abedo, Sawsan M. Ahmed, Azza M.M. Badrand Mervat S.M. HasaninLife Science..." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEd0VnRmek51ZDdkNlJBSVhaUlBmV1F1ekFPRUdKTUR3RjczdnVCVSs3MD0tLW1WVGgvc3M2aTdFUURKV2MwOXAwQ3c9PQ==--8aaaec6b132b8e0db8dc46fab39fe4e45b811b1b/t/sPPdN-Qgz1jJD-HxeW0/resource/work/8539516/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_1_Response_of_Growing_Rabbits_to_DietsHamed_A_A_Omer_AbdEl_Maged_A_Abedo_Sawsan_M_Ahmed_Azza_M_M_Badrand_Mervat_S_M_HasaninLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_4_?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 2. Influence of Flaxseeds Levels Supplementations on Blood Constituents, Carcass Characteristics and Fatty Acids Profile." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UThubG0wTEgrc1BKeEFnT3pycEF1OUxwVHZ6S1RGcVd1SkErVThPQnZqMD0tLXV5ZW5LVitIT0NhdDYvZnFuVWJlRlE9PQ==--4d0a1cc52d355dfd197363aa7fa6dc86b45cdf4a/t/sPPdN-QgG9ADH-bbjVAv/resource/work/12250987/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_2_Influence_of_Flaxseeds_Levels_Supplementations_on_Blood_Constituents_Carcass_Characteristics_and_Fatty_Acids_Profile?email_work_card=title

Agronomy: "Growth Performance and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients of Weaned Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Forms of Cocoa Pod Husk Meal" by Asian Online Journal Publishing Group===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L3IzQTZDNUVZWUF2NEwvZDV1Wkp0ZU52TU1meHJIY1dXYkt3UXU4T3E5UT0tLUl3SW9lQ0RZU3NhMjAwNjhIWWY3Y3c9PQ==--a3f206fa63664368e8bfde6eebd8f9470a3bdb2a/t/sPPdN-QpF3kHw-bqigTi/resource/work/35848207/Growth_Performance_and_Apparent_Nutrient_Digestibility_Coefficients_of_Weaned_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Forms_of_Cocoa_Pod_Husk_Meal?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF CHAMOMILE FLOWERS AS FEED ADDITIVE ON SOME BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS FOR GROWING RABBITS" by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YjZsSmVsM3AxM2F4enBmNkU5KzRuTVo2cFJKdUlDY3hVMGJSMDVRS2pwND0tLVN1V3FvTHc5MnI0NXFVbjBuQ1hnYUE9PQ==--3b3eadef9f6ebfe96bfa15eea7a3dfae8e494a31/t/sPPdN-Qpjmi1D-bdz6oo/resource/work/9329672/EFFECT_OF_CHAMOMILE_FLOWERS_AS_FEED_ADDITIVE_ON_SOME_BIOLOGICAL_PARAMETERS_FOR_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

The Nutritive Value of Zornia glochidiata as a Non-conventional Feedstuff in Rabbit in Sokoto, Nigeria" by Ndudim Ogo===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aUFMWjBISEJNMHVKZ080NjR5TGErcXpJRzJMelp0U0JtamU4Y2lvRFpJUT0tLVA2dEFmL0hEcGg0SFV2TG1teVlFaWc9PQ==--622e2baee790f8efb1144e9240ed1ada4b3fe5c8/t/sPPdN-QnogdXn-bc1HPX/resource/work/18711695/The_Nutritive_Value_of_Zornia_glochidiata_as_a_Non_conventional_Feedstuff_in_Rabbit_in_Sokoto_Nigeria?email_work_card=title

Performance of rabbits fed diets with varying concentrate and fodder ratio in north eastern region of Tripura" by Asit Chakrabarti===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MGIycnE2am5lK09CbkEzWnluM1JtaFFjNlk0UVUxSGpQTXNWTE1hS2VYZz0tLWsrdFc5bElVOHcyYmVzWkhrQmRSMVE9PQ==--5b5a30c634eeea396188f5f96e29e2476dd5cdd6/t/sPPdN-QmEt7ei-AvMTB/resource/work/39725417/Performance_of_rabbits_fed_diets_with_varying_concentrate_and_fodder_ratio_in_north_eastern_region_of_Tripura?email_work_card=title

Various Legume as feed and feed supplements

Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits" by Donald Chisowa===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SWR6b1dLWFNBb3pxbFh3VXNCUmxjWnFuV0hac1JuMnhjVERWUzh3djYwOD0tLTdwcXJ2VmJ1UTFTa0p5TzBCUFdlb1E9PQ==--e17ca3b4f9f183f27b84e94a67e75efe6ebf36f4/t/sPPdN-QoQRVXM-WNtJE/resource/work/11351185/Evaluation_of_soybean_Glycine_max_cowpea_Vigna_unguiculata_and_pigeon_pea_Cajanus_cajan_as_sole_sources_of_proteins_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Hamed A.A Omerand Azza M.M. Badr.Growth Performance of New Zealand White Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Pea StrawLife Science Journal 2013;10(2)" by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/U2pZNE5LYmdLY2NleXppeDhCb2owd2YxZ0FDNWJub2IzNmNsM0ZCNlpIQT0tLU51UHBhN3JGQ0ZmOWJYclJTdWRKNkE9PQ==--429eb979b597c8159c3230f2bb5e087f0b6765ca/t/sPPdN-QcSQb5L-bxcsdM/resource/work/8539260/Hamed_A_A_Omerand_Azza_M_M_Badr_Growth_Performance_of_New_Zealand_White_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Levels_of_Pea_StrawLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_2_?email_work_card=title

Effect of Chemical Composition of Alfalfa Hay on Several . Digestive Measurements in Growing Rabbits" by Rosa Carabaño===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/VldVYTkrN3FQVmVjZzBlT0tPSXFNN3lJWks5a0JDbSs2Nm0vWk5yNTAvZz0tLThQaE85MTc3Vlo2YmdwVSsrTFpJdWc9PQ==--90cc8df7accb7e7757b217e27490b7698e7cf5a0/t/sPPdN-Qa9cnMB-B2d8N/resource/work/24812249/Effect_of_Chemical_Composition_of_Alfalfa_Hay_on_Several_Digestive_Measurements_in_Growing_Rabbits?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF FEEDING OLIVE CAKE SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT BENTONITE ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aGhEa0Y3MXpTUm9QK0g4NS8rbGVZTmwyL3Q2Wmd1bFh0VzhhYTFkR1lGTT0tLWdvNlFRT0hhcEowVy9ESGpQTFplTHc9PQ==--e954ae63b78666fe8b6026136d1caa841a3244e7/t/sPPdN-QaECJQk-baz1zi/resource/work/36496594/EFFECT_OF_FEEDING_OLIVE_CAKE_SUPPLEMENTED_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_BENTONITE_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BLOOD COMPONENTS AND SLAUGHTER TRAITS OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE MALE GROWING RABBITS AS AFFECTED BY DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH CALCIUM, SODIUM OR POTASSIUM, IN SUB-TROPICAL EGYPT" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat== https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SU9MMGRUSEhLWGlNT20zaXdkTXEyUjJYYWlFaDI2RHRqNnZtYXF1Z1d6WT0tLUphSHIxRlRRbUZQQituR25Gc0dkK2c9PQ==--841cf9236890a2487e4a977273720546ef9a32dc/t/sPPdN-QaqqFUB-nAEXb/resource/work/12692254/GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_BLOOD_COMPONENTS_AND_SLAUGHTER_TRAITS_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_MALE_GROWING_RABBITS_AS_AFFECTED_BY_DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTATION_WITH_CALCIUM_SODIUM_OR_POTASSIUM_IN_SUB_TROPICAL_EGYPT?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/NHFKYlphcXg4VWNzZGVkSDVmVVFXYXlqOCtHSEVrd3RLN0NQN2xDZFZwYz0tLVVFcFpIZE9zV3pEWWRkU1Z5N09JcUE9PQ==--b6e433ce56d2392549ee5b405d73fa8c16e303ff/t/sPPdN-QaifWu2-bfmPBZ/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Influence of dietary benzoic acid addition on nutrient digestibility and selected biochemical parameters in fattening rabbits" by K. Fegeros==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/b2lheWJTUWNnUEVBTG5Ddm1YamhzSDQySGNZd0k1TVV1aE1ldmFVR1RGVT0tLUNLSk5MYmlvYW1kN29STUUzSCtPelE9PQ==--917462902d2600191af2d70536465a40bd316be4/t/sPPdN-QepHj7D-VtVZd/resource/work/30474431/Influence_of_dietary_benzoic_acid_addition_on_nutrient_digestibility_and_selected_biochemical_parameters_in_fattening_rabbits?email_work_card=title

COMMERCIAL ENZYMES

EFFECT OF USING COMMERCIAL ENZYMES TO IMPROVE DIETS CONTAINED PEANUT HAY ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by Fathy Atta===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OUJlVHFVTHozWlFQYW9idGdPUmJSUHJFZElZdGRXR3Fpc04rZU41N1IrZz0tLXlWY2FhdldaTll1Y1AwbEpxczAxbXc9PQ==--e16599d129e829b7da7a4ca4d6c379ce72e7532b/t/sPPdN-QeUbKK9-bxtmgk/resource/work/7230460/EFFECT_OF_USING_COMMERCIAL_ENZYMES_TO_IMPROVE_DIETS_CONTAINED_PEANUT_HAY_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

RESPONSE OF GROWING RABBITS TO DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF WHEAT SCREENING BY-PRODUCT WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION " by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bGpGeEkrdzZ3NE5PU2hKYUNZdmRQN1JMYjdqMU51RGc0clRmTStHTVhwbz0tLTF5bnhHY0V1TUxLNnZrR1N1WmdmVVE9PQ==--e42c63ee99bdc464d47fa63c8decab24ae97b4fb/t/sPPdN-Qc5erQc-bhct0a/resource/work/5108323/RESPONSE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_TO_DIETS_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_WHEAT_SCREENING_BY_PRODUCT_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_ENZYME_SUPPLEMENTATION?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF DIETARY CORN COBS AND ENZYMES SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWING RABBITS PERFORMANCE===
https://www.academia.edu/8019560/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_CORN_COBS_AND_ENZYMES_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWING_RABBITS_PERFORMANCE?email_work_card=title
Ibrahim abaza

EFFECT OF ENZYMES AND PROBIOTIC MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION TO THE DIET OF GROWING FEMALE RABBITS ON PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CRITERIA" by Mohamed El-Sagheer===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bFNjQ1hweHdXMU5jZStuaTVwR0FNMEl2S2FHYzNLa2twOExReE9oeU9OVT0tLUQ5RXdoNElpYzlpUGJCK0hmMnhseVE9PQ==--05cb9b9a585550db2c1c6d59abe3c29322dc3ee1/t/sPPdN-QaMLryt-K4jEZ/resource/work/11938475/EFFECT_OF_ENZYMES_AND_PROBIOTIC_MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION_TO_THE_DIET_OF_GROWING_FEMALE_RABBITS_ON_PERFORMANCE_AND_CARCASS_CRITERIA?email_work_card=title

REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION
[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION]
" REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION LEBAS F. Cuniculture, 87a Chemin de Lassère, 31450 Corronsac, France lebas@cuniculture.info ABSTRACT In this invited communication the author proposes a list of nutritional recommendations for rabbits of different categories: growing from 18 to 42 days, from 42 to 80 days, for breeding does according to productivity (40-50 kits weaned per doe/year or more than 50) and for a single diet suitable for all rabbits. Recommendations taking account the last published data, are divided in 2 groups. The first corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to feed efficiency: digestible energy, crude and digestible protein, amino acids, minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins. The second group corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to nutritive security and digestive health: different fibre components (lignins, cellulose, hemicelluloses) and their equilibrium, starch and water soluble vitamins. In a second part, 387 papers published during the last 30 years on raw material utilisation in rabbit feeding were analysed. In a total of 14 tables, the 542 corresponding experiments were summarised each by the identification of the raw material, by the highest level of incorporation used in the experiment, by the highest acceptable level, by the main ingredient(s) replaced by the raw material studied, and finally by the authors reference. Raw materials studied were those used in temperate as well as in tropical countries. The raw material were grouped according to the following categories : raw material used as single food (24 experiments), cereals and by-products (43 exp.), other carbohydrates source of energy (62 exp.), fats (27 exp.), full-fat oleaginous grains (10 exp.), oil cakes and meals (43 exp.), proteic seeds such peas or beans (42 exp.), miscellaneous sources of protein such yeast or leaf protein (18 exp.), animal products (21 exp.), non-protein nitrogen source such urea (9 exp.), forages (157 exp.), cereal straws, alkali treated or not (33 exp.), cover or parts of dried grains source of fibre such stalks, hulls or cobs (19 exp.) and industrial by-products usable as fibre source (51 exp.). Key words: nutritional recommendations, raw materials, data basis"

Effect of energy restriction in interaction with genotype on the performance of growing rabbits: II. Carcass traits and meat quality" by Z. Szendrő==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/ZTN1b3FROWR1aUZhWGM1Q0FJRk1XcWpSajlIRDdGUlZUakRXc21FRmxjaz0tLVNIdE1PS3ZtdnZuR1hWWm82UDg3U3c9PQ==--669990dfc647432f898e381ed8b9b41de23c78aa/t/sPPdN-QmqdKDg-bmjCCY/resource/work/13592540/Effect_of_energy_restriction_in_interaction_with_genotype_on_the_performance_of_growing_rabbits_II_Carcass_traits_and_meat_quality?email_work_card=title

Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by hadil samy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bDBFWG8wcXl1MlBnSjlyenBnUkhKL2FZTmVnYmtyVW9vbThrWGNwaERMOD0tLXY4WWFsRlpHU0FKWVRTRTlLTmRCRnc9PQ==--6433eef0d04443b5c7e946a1c73ae59282239da3/t/sPPdN-Qmh7hzB-insEp/resource/work/27823893/Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

DOI: Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by Fathy Abdel-Fattah==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L2g5dmN3WEx4d01hb3JHanJkL1pUQXhZSXBMd3JwczQyVGlGeUhaakFxcz0tLUFPYUloZy9HZnAzMU1wMklmcDUxcEE9PQ==--cf05b9d08abd2994dce26ca3b775a8a327b9c34f/t/sPPdN-QqEo2CE-fAfA5/resource/work/38091315/DOI_Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

INCLUSION OF DRIED AGRO-INDUSTRIAL STRAWBERRY BY- PRODUCTS IN GROWING RABBIT DIETS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/N0V6STlENndzVWprbmthVTJGZEtGcUVha0RzZ2dCWm5sVFZXSFI5VFRPOD0tLWMxRjUyRHpHZ2pyU0l3SGkyR2JXVGc9PQ==--bdf935bf33d5e21673da61a284addd06919e86b9/t/sPPdN-QhFdf7T-VUozM/resource/work/36496618/INCLUSION_OF_DRIED_AGRO_INDUSTRIAL_STRAWBERRY_BY_PRODUCTS_IN_GROWING_RABBIT_DIETS?email_work_card=title

Rabbit’s performance, health and meat quality improvement by phyto-additives" by Attawit Kovitvadhi==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bi8vWGZUcnVHM00zaDJSRklnOWVsV1VtMjlFQjFnQVNDN3VOUXJEQ3Z4Yz0tLXI0MndMN2J3UE8xZkNMbG5yV21YMmc9PQ==--c03893c550d192819f3dde5b88cb43c0251cfc1e/t/sPPdN-QqNsCkH-0zMCL/resource/work/19803703/Rabbit_s_performance_health_and_meat_quality_improvement_by_phyto_additives?email_work_card=title

PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIET CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TOMATO POMACE" by Mahmoud Elazab==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/eDNRMFl1YXdrb2ZTMGdxUkJTYkRTWDNzYkJoVHRVN2locDY1c3FjT3ZCcz0tLTB0R3RFeXZLNGduVlQvN2VQQ1ZaL3c9PQ==--b8af070801c6d13d7041b1060baf6b0b2f86db3f/t/sPPdN-QhbGBew-kbnLX/resource/work/35484427/PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_FED_DIET_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_TOMATO_POMACE?email_work_card=title

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/dVhDUDgwSXFFTHo0UVBldFNXOHFQVkhsbFZnVEphQm50U1FtK1BNc2JIRT0tLXZOQUhpcFFDZ2czSndMaXZDNGVWTVE9PQ==--3f889f2926497df89c9685f9795796f88b4c76c3/t/sPPdN-Qg4y1P2-UzbBy/resource/work/21181061/Growth_performance_carcass_quality_biochemical_and_haematological_traits_and_immune_response_of_growing_rabbits_as_affected_by_different_growth_promoters?email_work_card=title
Growth performance, carcass quality, biochemical and haematological traits and immune response of growing rabbits as affected by different growth promoters" by Youssef Attia]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/d1NVejZIa0VOYm5mUit1dG9xTVdkZ1VHOTB0QUM4aGhHS2xaTVQvcklSTT0tLS9zbXdWNDdBcXBnZFhySTA2Slhxdnc9PQ==--5649e5cdede150483096497d7b424e160c3a414a/t/sPPdN-QdV9eNq-9MtFF/resource/work/36496604/EVALUATION_OF_EGYPTIAN_TREE_WILLOW_Salix_safsafs_LEAVES_AND_ITS_FEEDING_AFFECT_ON_PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_RABBITS?email_work_card=title EVALUATION OF EGYPTIAN TREE WILLOW (Salix safsafs) LEAVES AND ITS FEEDING AFFECT ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBITS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEhlWjJsMlJyc3JCNDNVUlJUK05CaHR2V1NoYWMwVStxTlIrUWloZjEvbz0tLVZEdkJxZVYrc00zYm5aWE5kT0NTTEE9PQ==--b040db53fb351cf834d73ebd3dada957c02e4c95/t/sPPdN-Qfu5LUn-617sS/resource/work/36496613/UTILIZATION_OF_Ziziphus_spina_christi_LEAVES_AS_A_NATURAL_GROWTH_PROMOTER_IN_RABBITS_RATIONS?email_work_card=title UTILIZATION OF Ziziphus spina-christi LEAVES AS A NATURAL GROWTH PROMOTER IN RABBIT'S RATIONS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MzFNWE5hWklnWXhlcStJNExWNjBvcEhudjN1dTZNaVVjdzlnZGpyNVZnMD0tLU4veFVJRldVSElzRy9oN0k2U0tWa1E9PQ==--7562f212c75e4f5a0c8e066594e00fd0239031f2/t/sPPdN-QdyLbjc-qbmgV/resource/work/31846675/Effect_of_replacement_of_berseem_Trifolium_alexandrinum_L_hay_by_berseem_silage_on_performance_of_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title Effect of replacement of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) hay by berseem silage on performance of growing rabbits" by Hamed Gaafar]

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Oil added to feed]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YmlrSzU4SGRBZUJCbGViT0xjNDBZMk0vUGpVTzlFZnlWNjBtbFNSSGVMUT0tLWFlWGtLQVQycjFDSlU3ZmhTcURHdnc9PQ==--b809c3d7d0c75ba0dc95475b2ed5ba659e21e9b8/t/sPPdN-Qe1mzqP-AJQtS/resource/work/12250896/Improving_the_Utilization_of_Rabbit_Diets_Containing_Vegetable_Oil_by_Using_Fennel_Foeniculum_vulgare_And_Oregano_Origanum_vulgare_L_as_Feed_Additives?email_work_card=title Improving the Utilization of Rabbit Diets Containing Vegetable Oil by Using Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) And Oregano (Origanum vulgare L) as Feed Additives" by dr.azza badr]

Study of the effect of grape seed extract as a natural antioxidant on the performance of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits during summer season in Egypt Fawzia A. Hassan1; Khalid M. Mahrose2 and Mohamed Basyony3" by mohamed basyony
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Z0t1TlpMWlo4TjlkRmtURzkxY01MeWZMcEd2SmczNURyUE1GNm10Sy9jaz0tLWNBZ3pLMVZ6RDJ6dnJzeEhsRitsaGc9PQ==--3ea66988e3650ec90c1f8439baede86ffca6bf57/t/sPPdN-QdrCvu9-byFUwt/resource/work/21659194/Study_of_the_effect_of_grape_seed_extract_as_a_natural_antioxidant_on_the_performance_of_New_Zealand_White_NZW_rabbits_during_summer_season_in_Egypt_Fawzia_A_Hassan1_Khalid_M_Mahrose2_and_Mohamed_Basyony3?email_work_card=title

==notes to be incorporated ==

Rabbit Feeding Guide

2025-08-12T00:09:33Z

BCAdmin: /* Debunked Studies whose info is still used as "evidence" for House Rabbit society Propaganda: */

= Introduction =

If you search online, you’ll repeatedly find the claim that rabbits should have diets consisting of 80% hay or even an all-hay diet. This recommendation largely originates from the House Rabbit Society (HRS), an extreme animal rights organization that has promoted this 80% hay diet and associated messaging for decades. Oxbow Animal Health, a major supplier of rabbit food, partners with HRS and provides funding, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

For over 20 years, the House Rabbit Society has engaged with soon-to-be exotic animal veterinarians (DVMs), offering support to help them start their practices focused on rabbits. This relationship has resulted in many veterinarians adopting HRS-influenced care practices, which include the widely promoted 80% hay diet. Consequently, this diet recommendation has become entrenched despite significant flaws.

If you review rabbit care guidelines from major universities such as Purdue, UC Davis, Colorado State University, and Washington State University, you’ll notice HRS’s influence in their citations and fine print. This is reflected in feeding recommendations on Oxbow product packaging, which dominate the pet rabbit market. The resulting proliferation of this diet advice has perpetuated misinformation.

An important historical note: in the 1990s, the House Rabbit Society conflated care advice for rabbits and cavies (guinea pigs), even suggesting they could share diets and housing. When it became clear that cavies and rabbits can transmit diseases to each other , HRS retracted the cohabitation advice—but never revisited or corrected their dietary stance for rabbits.

Further scrutiny reveals that much of the 80% hay diet recommendation traces back to a single book co-authored by Susan Brown and Jeff Jenkins titled *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets* (1993). This book, difficult to obtain today, was frequently cited by HRS and related groups as a definitive source for the hay-first diet. However, more recent research by F. Lebas and others has discredited the outdated nutritional guidance in this book. The diet promoted therein fails to meet the minimum nutritional requirements for maintaining healthy rabbits.

Therefore, the House Rabbit Society is not a reliable source for rabbit care information. Their recommendations are often outdated or inaccurate and don’t always reflect current research. For trustworthy guidance, consult the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), the World Rabbit Congress, or reputable breeders ' organizations with access to the latest research and expertise.

One fundamental reason rabbits and cavies require different diets is their distinct gut microbiota, despite some anatomical similarities. A 2017 study by Crowley et al. using next-generation sequencing highlighted significant differences in the microbial populations between rabbits and guinea pigs, confirming that their digestive mechanisms differ substantially.

Furthermore, ARBA care guides, developed by a panel of veterinarians, recommend diets where pellets form the majority component, not hay. Supporting this, research comparing wild and domestic rabbits’ dental and digestive health found that hay is nutritionally poor and difficult to chew, often leading to malocclusion and periodontal disease caused by hay getting trapped between teeth. Wild rabbits are selective feeders, preferring high-nutrition fresh forage and resorting to dried grasses or hay only during starvation or severe winter conditions to survive.

== References ==
* Crowley EJ, King JM, Wilkinson T, Worgan HJ, Huson KM, Rose MT, McEwan NR. (2017). Comparison of the microbial population in rabbits and guinea pigs by next-generation sequencing. PLoS ONE 12(2): e0165779. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0165779
* Jenkins J., Brown S. (1993). *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets*. [Publisher info if available]
* [Link to ARBA Care Guides]
* [Link to World Rabbit Congress resources]

= Pellet Feeding Recommendations =

[[File:RabbitFeeding-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Rabbits do best on a Complete Balanced Alfalfa Based Pellet. 16% protein, 15-20% Fiber.]]

The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recommends feeding a completely balanced pellet as the primary and main source of nutrition for domestic rabbits. When selecting a suitable pellet, it is important to use a baseline of approximately:

* 16% crude protein
* 18% crude fiber
* A grass or legume-based ingredient as the first listed component on the label

These specifications help ensure that your rabbits receive sufficient nutrients for maintenance, growth, and reproductive performance.

Most feeding guidelines recommend providing pellets twice daily, with the total daily amount equaling approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of the rabbit’s ideal adult body weight. Rabbits are crepuscular by nature—most active during dawn and dusk—with periods of rest and digestion during the day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would be fed roughly 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and another 5 ounces in the evening.

It is recommended that a completely balanced pellet constitute between 80% and 100% of a rabbit’s overall diet. This approach helps to ensure that the rabbit’s nutritional requirements are met in a consistent and controlled manner.

Fresh vegetables and greens should be limited to no more than one or two tablespoons total per day. These fresh plants are best used in small quantities for their supplemental or medicinal properties rather than as a primary nutrient source. Feeding excessive fresh fruits or vegetables can disrupt the delicate balance of the rabbit’s hindgut flora and motility, which may result in bacterial overgrowth, gastrointestinal stasis, and potentially fatal bloat.

== Why is Oxbow not recommended? ==

Oxbow is one of the most widely marketed rabbit pellet brands and is often promoted by the House Rabbit Society. However, Oxbow’s formulation tends to have lower protein levels and higher fiber content than what is considered optimal for rabbit health. While rabbits fed Oxbow pellets may survive, their long-term health and condition often suffer.

To put this in perspective, a rabbit’s diet must provide a minimum of 14% digestible protein energy (DE) to maintain condition and support normal metabolic functions. This generally translates to a feed containing about 16% crude protein on a dry matter (DM) basis. A pellet containing only 14% crude protein DM provides closer to 12% DE protein, which is barely enough to sustain life, let alone promote growth or healthy fur and muscle maintenance.

Rabbits consuming diets low in digestible protein often develop a flabby, wasted body condition and exhibit constant shedding or poor coat quality. In addition, fiber levels in the diet should not exceed approximately 22% to prevent the dilution of essential nutrients. If the protein content decreases, the fiber content should decrease proportionally. For example, an Oxbow formula with 14% crude protein and 25% fiber will have a further reduced bioavailability of essential nutrients, with only about 9% DE protein effectively available to the animal, leading to malnutrition and poor health outcomes.

For these reasons, feeds such as ADM Pen Pals 16%, which contains no whole or ground corn and is balanced for all life stages, are preferred. Other recommended brands or formulations include:

* Small World 16% by Manna Pro
* Kambalch 16%
* Rowe 16%
* Hienold Commercial or Wool Formula
* Pen Pals 16%

These recommended pellets are typically alfalfa-based and contain a minimum of 16% crude protein DM with fiber content ranging between 15% and 22%. It is also advisable to avoid feeds containing whole corn kernels, which provide poor-quality nutrition. However, corn distillers, which contain the protein-rich germ without the hull or starch, are acceptable as an ingredient.

== Nuanced Feeding Recommendations ==

=== Feeding Nursing and Pregnant Does ===

Nursing and pregnancy have significantly increased protein and energy requirements to support fetal growth and subsequent milk production. For the first two weeks of pregnancy, it is generally recommended to maintain the doe on a standard maintenance diet containing about 16% protein.

Starting in the third week of pregnancy, the diet should be gradually transitioned to a higher protein ratio, around 18%, to meet the increased nutritional demands. Once the doe has given birth and is nursing kits, she should be allowed free access to a high-quality 18% protein pellet to support continued milk production and recovery.

Several safe and effective feed additives can be included in the diet of nursing does to enhance milk yield. These include:

* Steam-rolled or traditional old-fashioned oats
* Calf manna
* Black oil sunflower seeds

These supplements should be offered in small quantities—generally half to one teaspoon per feeding—in a separate bowl to avoid contamination or waste of pellets.

Bananas (fruit only, no peel) can be offered to pregnant does in limited amounts to provide a natural source of potassium and sugars, which are beneficial during the late stages of fetal development. For nursing does, small amounts of banana peel can also be given, but care must be taken as the peel contains compounds that may induce uterine contractions. Therefore, banana peel should never be given to does before or during pregnancy but can be safely provided immediately after birth.

Additionally, Tums (either plain or fruit-flavored) can serve as a calcium supplement to nursing does. One or two Tums daily for the first few days postpartum can help boost calcium availability for milk production, with occasional supplementation continuing through the nursing period.

*Foods to avoid during pregnancy and nursing:*
** Plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae) should be avoided as they may dry up milk production. They can be given to does only after litter loss or post-weaning when drying up the doe.
** Banana peel must be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential to induce contractions, but it is safe after kindling.

=== Feeding Weanling Rabbits (8 to 20 weeks) ===

Weanlings are in a rapid growth phase and require a diet higher in protein to support development. They should be fed a complete pellet containing between 17% and 20% protein and given free access to ensure adequate intake.

=== Feeding Adult Non-Producing Rabbits ===

Adult rabbits not involved in breeding, gestation, or lactation have more moderate nutritional requirements. Protein levels between 15% and 17% are generally sufficient, provided the pellet contains a minimum of 15% fiber.

Pellets for non-producing adults can be based on timothy or alfalfa hay. Avoid pellets with a grain-based ingredient list, as these are less suitable for optimal rabbit health.

Daily intake guidelines remain at approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of ideal body weight, divided into two feedings per day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would receive approximately 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and 5 ounces in the evening.

=== Conditioning Show Rabbits ===

[[File:FINISHING MIX-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Diet can be amended for different life stages and for special conditioning]]

Show rabbits often require specialized dietary adjustments depending on the life stage or conditioning goals. Some common dietary supplements used to optimize coat quality, muscle tone, and digestive health include:

* **Coat Finishers:** Supplements rich in vitamin E and fat are often used to improve coat luster and texture. Black oil sunflower seeds (BOS) are a popular natural source of these nutrients.
* **Muscle and Flesh Conditioners:** Protein boosters such as whey powder, rolled oats, and barley may be added to the diet to promote muscle development and firmness of flesh, particularly before shows.
* **Digestive Aids:** Enzymatic supplements like papaya enzyme powder assist in nutrient absorption and can help break down ingested wool or fur during shedding seasons.
* **Fiber Supplements:** Small amounts of grass hays and beet pulp shreds can be offered to support gut motility and health. However, be mindful that beet pulp can be high in sugars, so quantities should be kept small. Shredded plain pumpkin is also used as a mild fiber supplement and digestive aid.

= Other Feed Additives =

== Proteins ==
Rabbits require adequate protein for maintenance, growth, and reproduction. While maintenance feeds with 12%-15% protein can sustain non-producing rabbits, a balanced ration containing around 16% protein produces better overall health and condition. Providing a single feed with sufficient protein for all life stages is often easier for management.

* Corn Distillers: Do not confuse whole or cracked corn with corn distillers, which are the protein-rich remnants after fermentation removes sugars. Sugars promote harmful bacterial overgrowth leading to bloat and GI stasis, so avoiding whole corn kernels is critical.

* Soybean: Studies show soybean is a superior protein source compared to cowpea or pigeon pea for growing rabbits. Cowpea varieties with high tannin content may harm kidneys and are not recommended as sole protein sources.

== Fat ==
Fats provide concentrated energy and are important for coat and skin health. Common fat sources include oils and black oil sunflower seeds, which also supply essential fatty acids and vitamin E.

== Carbohydrates ==
Carbohydrates provide energy, but care must be taken to avoid simple sugars that disrupt gut flora.

* Corn: Whole or cracked corn kernels should never be fed to rabbits. However, certain corn by-products (like corn distillers) are acceptable when used correctly.

* Oats and Beet Pulp Shreds: These are common carbohydrate sources that also provide some fiber.

== Fiber ==
Fiber is crucial for maintaining healthy digestive motility and preventing gut disorders. The quality and particle size of fiber directly influence gut health and immune function.

* Excessively high fiber (>25% Acid Detergent Fiber) dilutes dietary energy and reduces growth rates because rabbits cannot consume enough feed to compensate.

* Studies indicate that fiber particle size affects mortality, immunity, and gut bacteria populations in rabbits, with heterogeneous particle sizes increasing lignin content and digestive stress.

Common fiber sources include timothy hay and beet pulp shreds, which help maintain optimal gut function.

== Enzymes ==
Enzymatic supplements can aid digestion, especially during periods of stress or dietary transition. These include papaya enzyme and other proteolytic enzymes.

== Supplements ==
Additional supplements may be used to address specific nutritional needs or to support reproductive performance, coat condition, or digestive health. These are best used judiciously and tailored to the animal's life stage and condition.

== Notes and References ==
* See detailed reviews on fiber digestion and its effects on rabbit health (Gidenne 1996, De Blas 1999, Licois & Gidenne 1999, Bennegadi et al. 2000).
* Particle size and fiber content significantly affect mortality, immune response, and gut bacterial populations (source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108).
* Avoid feeding whole or cracked corn kernels; use corn distillers cautiously.

== Common Types of Hay and Their Nutritional Profiles ==

=== Timothy Hay (Phleum pratense L.) ===
* Protein: ~3–13.8% DM (varies with storage and age)
* Fiber: ~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7–10.9% DM

Timothy hay is popular for fiber supplementation but cannot support adult rabbits alone due to low protein and energy digestibility. Its lysine content is low, meeting only about 70% of growing rabbits' needs. Calcium content is low (~0.33%), which can be either advantageous or limiting depending on the overall diet.

=== Alfalfa Hay (Medicago sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~18.3% DM
* Fiber: ~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~4.5% DM

Alfalfa is highly palatable and widely used as a fiber and protein source. It promotes digestive motility and caecal flora balance. Inclusion recommendations vary but typically fall between 20–40%. High inclusion levels (>80%) have shown mortality reduction in some studies but may risk calcium overload in adults. Protein digestibility is moderate, limiting support for very rapid growth.

=== Red Clover Hay ===
* Protein: ~18.7% DM
* Fiber: ~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa up to 30% without adverse effects on growth or mortality.

=== Oat Forage (Avena sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~9.1% DM
* Fiber: ~34% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===
Includes timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermuda grass.

* Typically high fiber, low protein, vitamins, and minerals compared to legumes.
* Nutritional content varies widely by species and harvest conditions.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===
* Combines benefits of legumes (protein, minerals) and grasses (fiber).
* Balanced mixes (e.g., 1/3 grass to 2/3 legume) optimize nutrition and yield.

=== Bermuda Grass (Cynodon dactylon Pers.) ===
* Protein: ~9.8% DM
* Fiber: ~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~0.8% DM

=Rabbit Snacks and Treats =

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Recipes_to_Make_Treats_For_Rabbits Recipe page:]

=Debunked Studies whose info is still used as "evidence" for House Rabbit society Propaganda:=

[https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2041027&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ Preference of rabbits for drinking from open dishes versus nipple drinkers ]
Tschudin, A; Clauss, M; Codron, D; Hatt, J-M.The Veterinary Record; London Vol. 168, Iss. 7, (Feb 19, 2011): 190.

This study was widely discredited, and removed from ResearchGate, and PubMed , becuse the sample size was 12 dwarf rabbits total. Not large enough sample to gather any conclusive evidence.

Also questionable Sources on the House Rabbit society care pages House Rabbit Society cites three sources for their information at the bottom of their care page, they cite zero studies, and zero research, you are expected to take what they post as gospel with no reviewable sources to back it up. it is there for not academic but a op-ed opinion piece. :

*Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
*Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health
*Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison ( 2002-2010 National Board of Directors, House Rabbit Society (Richmond CA) 
https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan_Smith_CV.pdf

Dr. Susan Smith has been invited to speak at numerous HRS conventions. She has also written several opinion articles for laypeople. However, Dr. Smith has not published any research studies involving rabbits, peer-reviewed papers on rabbits, or sponsored rabbit-related research. In fact, all of her rabbit-related activities are solely in her capacity as a member of the House Rabbit Society board. The society appears to be using Dr. Smith's doctorate to lend authority to its opinions, but not to support those opinions with any empirical evidence. This raises the question of whether the HRS is truly an independent organization or whether it is a front for activist interests.

Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health , VP of Technical Services and Research, Oxbow Animal Health 
He was part of the study that tested , The Effect of Feed Form on Diet Digestibility and Cecal Parameters in Rabbits
December 2017Animals 7(12):95 DOI:10.3390/ani7120095 [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593_The_Effect_of_Feed_Form_on_Diet_Digestibility_and_Cecal_Parameters_in_Rabbits] . This study had a total sample size of 15 new Zealand Rabbits. Broken into three groups of five Rabbits. "Rabbits were placed in individual cages with ad libitum access to water and food for 45 days acclimation followed by 30 days experimental period."

"Simple Summary: In addition to hay or forage in the diet pet rabbits are commonly fed a supplementary food as a muesli (granular mix), pellets, or extruded croquettes. This study aimed to determine if form of this supplementary
diet (pelleted vs. extruded) or composition (muesli) had an effect on the diets total tract digestibility and cecal fermentation patterns. Rabbits had slightly higher intake when fed extruded and pelleted diets compared to muesli.
Digestibility results were inconsistent between estimation methods. The extruded diet was more digestible than pelleted according to the total collection digestibility method, but according to internal marker acid insoluble ash
 The pelleted diet was the most digestible. Both the extruded and pelleted diet had similar fermentation patterns, with lower cecal pH and greater proportions of butyrate. Our findings suggest that diet composition, rather
than form, may have a greater impact on nutrient utilization by rabbits "

The pellet used was also only 14% protein. and the sample size was tiny.

Gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology of select exotic companion mammals https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24767739/ [https://books.google.com/books?id=M8WLAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA165&lpg=PA165&dq=Gastrointestinal%20Anatomy%20and%20Physiology%20of%20Select%20Exotic%20Companion%20Mammals&source=bl&ots=tlLl8zcfAn&sig=ACfU3U2IPejsgPTujD2FsbzQydT4JajJTQ&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjiyr_CxKH2AhWxlIkEHYINBmkQ6AF6BAgdEAI&fbclid=IwAR1IGYOezqmKbJ6vTjq52Ud8SlbBbALeUTN5UY_-xQeuV4OeoLuG1yRird8#v=onepage&q=Gastrointestinal%20Anatomy%20and%20Physiology%20of%20Select%20Exotic%20Companion%20Mammals&f=false good breakdown of the mechanic of digestion but has no info regarding actual nutrient requirements ]
by M Kohles · 2014

note: study on this topic is represented above that shows the gut bacteria and digestion is different between Rabbit and Cavy.

Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

Gastrointestinal disease in ferrets and rabbits (Proceedings)
August 1, 2011 Peter G. Fisher, DVM
https://www.dvm360.com/view/gastrointestinal-disease-ferrets-and-rabbits-proceedings
it covers diseases of gastrointestinal tract, and what parasites and infection commonly cause bloat, and not diet.

and the 2 other linked opinion pieces read as a oxbow marketing advertisement. even naming oxbow by name.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/rabbit-medicine-overview-proceedings
Notice how the nutrition section has ZERO links back to ANY supporting research articles yet all other sections have multiple sources cites to support the text.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/thinking-adding-exotic-mammals-your-case-load-equipment-needs-proceedings
This opinion piece reads like commercial for oxbow.

I have reviewed the sources cited in the House Rabbit Society Article on nutrition. Unfortunately, two of the veterinarians they cite, Dr. Peter G. Fisher and Dr. Micah Kohles, do not appear to have any studies or research that support the claims in the Feeding article. Their only support comes from opinion articles that lack supporting research. In fact, the actual studies I have found by these veterinarians provide a more compelling argument for feeding a complete and balanced pellet over "salads" that are low in fiber and high in fermentable carbs, which according to one of their studies, can cause appendix damage. Dr. Susan Smith has no rabbit research in her portfolio, and her only connection to rabbits is that she served on the House Rabbit Society board and repeated the talking points she was given to enhance the House Rabbit Society's credibility. I find it very disappointing that the House Rabbit Society would promote such a misleading article, and I would not recommend it as a reliable source of information on rabbit nutrition.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834_NUTRITIVE_VALUE_OF_SAWDUST

Pine Sawdust:
CP content varied from 1.8 to 3.5 g/100g,
CF content varied from 39.5 to 74.0 g/100g

Timothy Hay
CP content 3% g/100g
CF content 28% g/100g

=Feed Related Studies=

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Researchlinks#REFLECTIONS_ON_RABBIT_NUTRITION_WITH_A_SPECIAL_EMPHASIS_ON_FEED_INGREDIENTS_UTILIZATION Research Links ]

[https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding Rabbit Tracks: Feeds and Feeding April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension] 
Received: 23 May 2021 / Revised: 12 July 2021 / Accepted: 12 July 2021 / Published: 14 July 2021

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health] 
August 2013

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Effects of Rocket Seed Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, and Their Mixture on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Digestibility, Redox Status, and Meat Fatty Acid Profile of Growing Rabbits] 
April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION RECENT RESEARCH ADVANCES IN RABBIT NUTRITION] 
December 2000

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization Reflections on rabbit nutrition with a special emphasis on feed ingredients utilization] 
January 2004

==Feed related==

Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition
[https://www.academia.edu/8592261/Nutrition_of_the_Rabbit_Second_Edition?email_work_card=title Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition]
Mohammad Rifky

rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding

Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health==
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health

https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION

https://www.vetfolio.com/learn/article/nutrition-know-how-pet-rabbit-nutrition

General Feed Supplements

EFFECT OF DIETARY SELENIUM ENRICHED MICRO-ALGAE SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANTI- OXIDATIVE STATUS OF RABBITS UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IN SUMMER SEASON" by mohamed basyony===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/QllhK1c5L1FDbkFwNEdTNkY4UDI3QnpOTGlCSTRtQ0lNd1V5QTBKVWk2RT0tLXVVQjVtOEVNUm9ZQkIzOEZmY3orSWc9PQ==--c79ce43255800522b842d0c8be4f1a102ba46aaf/t/sPPdN-Qp4b4Q1-bhRvi1/resource/work/21619748/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_SELENIUM_ENRICHED_MICRO_ALGAE_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_AND_ANTI_OXIDATIVE_STATUS_OF_RABBITS_UNDER_HIGH_AMBIENT_TEMPERATURE_IN_SUMMER_SEASON?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Rk9LdEk3cUt6aDQwdEUvK0dPaHhvUkRVRk5iUzdlV05WelVvS3prZkJGdz0tLWZZRFZWUGN3N2ZNTTBFOU4zRElqQ0E9PQ==--bd7de4edfce98920e93a0b1c5d01a3591f51cc78/t/sPPdN-Qdcm7Pe-p67QM/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Effect of Zinc Supplementation on some Physiological and Growth Traits in Local Male Rabbit" by World's Veterinary Journal Editor===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UzR2b3BhSVl6QjFMeTk5bjR1dXQxYTNhZXBwQUh2UncxdFNBUVVjZkRoMD0tLTIrY1NFWVBnU05mWnNwZlFPUTlrM3c9PQ==--7ad74ccf2d833f46a06ba9dcf8a6f6d63038c707/t/sPPdN-QfnHV4z-kQ1wm/resource/work/32956665/Effect_of_Zinc_Supplementation_on_some_Physiological_and_Growth_Traits_in_Local_Male_Rabbit?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 1. Response of Growing Rabbits to DietsHamed A.A. Omer, AbdEl-Maged A. Abedo, Sawsan M. Ahmed, Azza M.M. Badrand Mervat S.M. HasaninLife Science..." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEd0VnRmek51ZDdkNlJBSVhaUlBmV1F1ekFPRUdKTUR3RjczdnVCVSs3MD0tLW1WVGgvc3M2aTdFUURKV2MwOXAwQ3c9PQ==--8aaaec6b132b8e0db8dc46fab39fe4e45b811b1b/t/sPPdN-Qgz1jJD-HxeW0/resource/work/8539516/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_1_Response_of_Growing_Rabbits_to_DietsHamed_A_A_Omer_AbdEl_Maged_A_Abedo_Sawsan_M_Ahmed_Azza_M_M_Badrand_Mervat_S_M_HasaninLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_4_?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 2. Influence of Flaxseeds Levels Supplementations on Blood Constituents, Carcass Characteristics and Fatty Acids Profile." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UThubG0wTEgrc1BKeEFnT3pycEF1OUxwVHZ6S1RGcVd1SkErVThPQnZqMD0tLXV5ZW5LVitIT0NhdDYvZnFuVWJlRlE9PQ==--4d0a1cc52d355dfd197363aa7fa6dc86b45cdf4a/t/sPPdN-QgG9ADH-bbjVAv/resource/work/12250987/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_2_Influence_of_Flaxseeds_Levels_Supplementations_on_Blood_Constituents_Carcass_Characteristics_and_Fatty_Acids_Profile?email_work_card=title

Agronomy: "Growth Performance and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients of Weaned Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Forms of Cocoa Pod Husk Meal" by Asian Online Journal Publishing Group===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L3IzQTZDNUVZWUF2NEwvZDV1Wkp0ZU52TU1meHJIY1dXYkt3UXU4T3E5UT0tLUl3SW9lQ0RZU3NhMjAwNjhIWWY3Y3c9PQ==--a3f206fa63664368e8bfde6eebd8f9470a3bdb2a/t/sPPdN-QpF3kHw-bqigTi/resource/work/35848207/Growth_Performance_and_Apparent_Nutrient_Digestibility_Coefficients_of_Weaned_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Forms_of_Cocoa_Pod_Husk_Meal?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF CHAMOMILE FLOWERS AS FEED ADDITIVE ON SOME BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS FOR GROWING RABBITS" by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YjZsSmVsM3AxM2F4enBmNkU5KzRuTVo2cFJKdUlDY3hVMGJSMDVRS2pwND0tLVN1V3FvTHc5MnI0NXFVbjBuQ1hnYUE9PQ==--3b3eadef9f6ebfe96bfa15eea7a3dfae8e494a31/t/sPPdN-Qpjmi1D-bdz6oo/resource/work/9329672/EFFECT_OF_CHAMOMILE_FLOWERS_AS_FEED_ADDITIVE_ON_SOME_BIOLOGICAL_PARAMETERS_FOR_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

The Nutritive Value of Zornia glochidiata as a Non-conventional Feedstuff in Rabbit in Sokoto, Nigeria" by Ndudim Ogo===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aUFMWjBISEJNMHVKZ080NjR5TGErcXpJRzJMelp0U0JtamU4Y2lvRFpJUT0tLVA2dEFmL0hEcGg0SFV2TG1teVlFaWc9PQ==--622e2baee790f8efb1144e9240ed1ada4b3fe5c8/t/sPPdN-QnogdXn-bc1HPX/resource/work/18711695/The_Nutritive_Value_of_Zornia_glochidiata_as_a_Non_conventional_Feedstuff_in_Rabbit_in_Sokoto_Nigeria?email_work_card=title

Performance of rabbits fed diets with varying concentrate and fodder ratio in north eastern region of Tripura" by Asit Chakrabarti===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MGIycnE2am5lK09CbkEzWnluM1JtaFFjNlk0UVUxSGpQTXNWTE1hS2VYZz0tLWsrdFc5bElVOHcyYmVzWkhrQmRSMVE9PQ==--5b5a30c634eeea396188f5f96e29e2476dd5cdd6/t/sPPdN-QmEt7ei-AvMTB/resource/work/39725417/Performance_of_rabbits_fed_diets_with_varying_concentrate_and_fodder_ratio_in_north_eastern_region_of_Tripura?email_work_card=title

Various Legume as feed and feed supplements

Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits" by Donald Chisowa===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SWR6b1dLWFNBb3pxbFh3VXNCUmxjWnFuV0hac1JuMnhjVERWUzh3djYwOD0tLTdwcXJ2VmJ1UTFTa0p5TzBCUFdlb1E9PQ==--e17ca3b4f9f183f27b84e94a67e75efe6ebf36f4/t/sPPdN-QoQRVXM-WNtJE/resource/work/11351185/Evaluation_of_soybean_Glycine_max_cowpea_Vigna_unguiculata_and_pigeon_pea_Cajanus_cajan_as_sole_sources_of_proteins_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Hamed A.A Omerand Azza M.M. Badr.Growth Performance of New Zealand White Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Pea StrawLife Science Journal 2013;10(2)" by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/U2pZNE5LYmdLY2NleXppeDhCb2owd2YxZ0FDNWJub2IzNmNsM0ZCNlpIQT0tLU51UHBhN3JGQ0ZmOWJYclJTdWRKNkE9PQ==--429eb979b597c8159c3230f2bb5e087f0b6765ca/t/sPPdN-QcSQb5L-bxcsdM/resource/work/8539260/Hamed_A_A_Omerand_Azza_M_M_Badr_Growth_Performance_of_New_Zealand_White_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Levels_of_Pea_StrawLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_2_?email_work_card=title

Effect of Chemical Composition of Alfalfa Hay on Several . Digestive Measurements in Growing Rabbits" by Rosa Carabaño===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/VldVYTkrN3FQVmVjZzBlT0tPSXFNN3lJWks5a0JDbSs2Nm0vWk5yNTAvZz0tLThQaE85MTc3Vlo2YmdwVSsrTFpJdWc9PQ==--90cc8df7accb7e7757b217e27490b7698e7cf5a0/t/sPPdN-Qa9cnMB-B2d8N/resource/work/24812249/Effect_of_Chemical_Composition_of_Alfalfa_Hay_on_Several_Digestive_Measurements_in_Growing_Rabbits?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF FEEDING OLIVE CAKE SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT BENTONITE ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aGhEa0Y3MXpTUm9QK0g4NS8rbGVZTmwyL3Q2Wmd1bFh0VzhhYTFkR1lGTT0tLWdvNlFRT0hhcEowVy9ESGpQTFplTHc9PQ==--e954ae63b78666fe8b6026136d1caa841a3244e7/t/sPPdN-QaECJQk-baz1zi/resource/work/36496594/EFFECT_OF_FEEDING_OLIVE_CAKE_SUPPLEMENTED_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_BENTONITE_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BLOOD COMPONENTS AND SLAUGHTER TRAITS OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE MALE GROWING RABBITS AS AFFECTED BY DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH CALCIUM, SODIUM OR POTASSIUM, IN SUB-TROPICAL EGYPT" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat== https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SU9MMGRUSEhLWGlNT20zaXdkTXEyUjJYYWlFaDI2RHRqNnZtYXF1Z1d6WT0tLUphSHIxRlRRbUZQQituR25Gc0dkK2c9PQ==--841cf9236890a2487e4a977273720546ef9a32dc/t/sPPdN-QaqqFUB-nAEXb/resource/work/12692254/GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_BLOOD_COMPONENTS_AND_SLAUGHTER_TRAITS_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_MALE_GROWING_RABBITS_AS_AFFECTED_BY_DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTATION_WITH_CALCIUM_SODIUM_OR_POTASSIUM_IN_SUB_TROPICAL_EGYPT?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/NHFKYlphcXg4VWNzZGVkSDVmVVFXYXlqOCtHSEVrd3RLN0NQN2xDZFZwYz0tLVVFcFpIZE9zV3pEWWRkU1Z5N09JcUE9PQ==--b6e433ce56d2392549ee5b405d73fa8c16e303ff/t/sPPdN-QaifWu2-bfmPBZ/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Influence of dietary benzoic acid addition on nutrient digestibility and selected biochemical parameters in fattening rabbits" by K. Fegeros==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/b2lheWJTUWNnUEVBTG5Ddm1YamhzSDQySGNZd0k1TVV1aE1ldmFVR1RGVT0tLUNLSk5MYmlvYW1kN29STUUzSCtPelE9PQ==--917462902d2600191af2d70536465a40bd316be4/t/sPPdN-QepHj7D-VtVZd/resource/work/30474431/Influence_of_dietary_benzoic_acid_addition_on_nutrient_digestibility_and_selected_biochemical_parameters_in_fattening_rabbits?email_work_card=title

COMMERCIAL ENZYMES

EFFECT OF USING COMMERCIAL ENZYMES TO IMPROVE DIETS CONTAINED PEANUT HAY ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by Fathy Atta===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OUJlVHFVTHozWlFQYW9idGdPUmJSUHJFZElZdGRXR3Fpc04rZU41N1IrZz0tLXlWY2FhdldaTll1Y1AwbEpxczAxbXc9PQ==--e16599d129e829b7da7a4ca4d6c379ce72e7532b/t/sPPdN-QeUbKK9-bxtmgk/resource/work/7230460/EFFECT_OF_USING_COMMERCIAL_ENZYMES_TO_IMPROVE_DIETS_CONTAINED_PEANUT_HAY_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

RESPONSE OF GROWING RABBITS TO DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF WHEAT SCREENING BY-PRODUCT WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION " by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bGpGeEkrdzZ3NE5PU2hKYUNZdmRQN1JMYjdqMU51RGc0clRmTStHTVhwbz0tLTF5bnhHY0V1TUxLNnZrR1N1WmdmVVE9PQ==--e42c63ee99bdc464d47fa63c8decab24ae97b4fb/t/sPPdN-Qc5erQc-bhct0a/resource/work/5108323/RESPONSE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_TO_DIETS_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_WHEAT_SCREENING_BY_PRODUCT_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_ENZYME_SUPPLEMENTATION?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF DIETARY CORN COBS AND ENZYMES SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWING RABBITS PERFORMANCE===
https://www.academia.edu/8019560/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_CORN_COBS_AND_ENZYMES_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWING_RABBITS_PERFORMANCE?email_work_card=title
Ibrahim abaza

EFFECT OF ENZYMES AND PROBIOTIC MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION TO THE DIET OF GROWING FEMALE RABBITS ON PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CRITERIA" by Mohamed El-Sagheer===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bFNjQ1hweHdXMU5jZStuaTVwR0FNMEl2S2FHYzNLa2twOExReE9oeU9OVT0tLUQ5RXdoNElpYzlpUGJCK0hmMnhseVE9PQ==--05cb9b9a585550db2c1c6d59abe3c29322dc3ee1/t/sPPdN-QaMLryt-K4jEZ/resource/work/11938475/EFFECT_OF_ENZYMES_AND_PROBIOTIC_MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION_TO_THE_DIET_OF_GROWING_FEMALE_RABBITS_ON_PERFORMANCE_AND_CARCASS_CRITERIA?email_work_card=title

REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION
[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION]
" REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION LEBAS F. Cuniculture, 87a Chemin de Lassère, 31450 Corronsac, France lebas@cuniculture.info ABSTRACT In this invited communication the author proposes a list of nutritional recommendations for rabbits of different categories: growing from 18 to 42 days, from 42 to 80 days, for breeding does according to productivity (40-50 kits weaned per doe/year or more than 50) and for a single diet suitable for all rabbits. Recommendations taking account the last published data, are divided in 2 groups. The first corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to feed efficiency: digestible energy, crude and digestible protein, amino acids, minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins. The second group corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to nutritive security and digestive health: different fibre components (lignins, cellulose, hemicelluloses) and their equilibrium, starch and water soluble vitamins. In a second part, 387 papers published during the last 30 years on raw material utilisation in rabbit feeding were analysed. In a total of 14 tables, the 542 corresponding experiments were summarised each by the identification of the raw material, by the highest level of incorporation used in the experiment, by the highest acceptable level, by the main ingredient(s) replaced by the raw material studied, and finally by the authors reference. Raw materials studied were those used in temperate as well as in tropical countries. The raw material were grouped according to the following categories : raw material used as single food (24 experiments), cereals and by-products (43 exp.), other carbohydrates source of energy (62 exp.), fats (27 exp.), full-fat oleaginous grains (10 exp.), oil cakes and meals (43 exp.), proteic seeds such peas or beans (42 exp.), miscellaneous sources of protein such yeast or leaf protein (18 exp.), animal products (21 exp.), non-protein nitrogen source such urea (9 exp.), forages (157 exp.), cereal straws, alkali treated or not (33 exp.), cover or parts of dried grains source of fibre such stalks, hulls or cobs (19 exp.) and industrial by-products usable as fibre source (51 exp.). Key words: nutritional recommendations, raw materials, data basis"

Effect of energy restriction in interaction with genotype on the performance of growing rabbits: II. Carcass traits and meat quality" by Z. Szendrő==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/ZTN1b3FROWR1aUZhWGM1Q0FJRk1XcWpSajlIRDdGUlZUakRXc21FRmxjaz0tLVNIdE1PS3ZtdnZuR1hWWm82UDg3U3c9PQ==--669990dfc647432f898e381ed8b9b41de23c78aa/t/sPPdN-QmqdKDg-bmjCCY/resource/work/13592540/Effect_of_energy_restriction_in_interaction_with_genotype_on_the_performance_of_growing_rabbits_II_Carcass_traits_and_meat_quality?email_work_card=title

Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by hadil samy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bDBFWG8wcXl1MlBnSjlyenBnUkhKL2FZTmVnYmtyVW9vbThrWGNwaERMOD0tLXY4WWFsRlpHU0FKWVRTRTlLTmRCRnc9PQ==--6433eef0d04443b5c7e946a1c73ae59282239da3/t/sPPdN-Qmh7hzB-insEp/resource/work/27823893/Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

DOI: Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by Fathy Abdel-Fattah==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L2g5dmN3WEx4d01hb3JHanJkL1pUQXhZSXBMd3JwczQyVGlGeUhaakFxcz0tLUFPYUloZy9HZnAzMU1wMklmcDUxcEE9PQ==--cf05b9d08abd2994dce26ca3b775a8a327b9c34f/t/sPPdN-QqEo2CE-fAfA5/resource/work/38091315/DOI_Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

INCLUSION OF DRIED AGRO-INDUSTRIAL STRAWBERRY BY- PRODUCTS IN GROWING RABBIT DIETS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/N0V6STlENndzVWprbmthVTJGZEtGcUVha0RzZ2dCWm5sVFZXSFI5VFRPOD0tLWMxRjUyRHpHZ2pyU0l3SGkyR2JXVGc9PQ==--bdf935bf33d5e21673da61a284addd06919e86b9/t/sPPdN-QhFdf7T-VUozM/resource/work/36496618/INCLUSION_OF_DRIED_AGRO_INDUSTRIAL_STRAWBERRY_BY_PRODUCTS_IN_GROWING_RABBIT_DIETS?email_work_card=title

Rabbit’s performance, health and meat quality improvement by phyto-additives" by Attawit Kovitvadhi==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bi8vWGZUcnVHM00zaDJSRklnOWVsV1VtMjlFQjFnQVNDN3VOUXJEQ3Z4Yz0tLXI0MndMN2J3UE8xZkNMbG5yV21YMmc9PQ==--c03893c550d192819f3dde5b88cb43c0251cfc1e/t/sPPdN-QqNsCkH-0zMCL/resource/work/19803703/Rabbit_s_performance_health_and_meat_quality_improvement_by_phyto_additives?email_work_card=title

PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIET CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TOMATO POMACE" by Mahmoud Elazab==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/eDNRMFl1YXdrb2ZTMGdxUkJTYkRTWDNzYkJoVHRVN2locDY1c3FjT3ZCcz0tLTB0R3RFeXZLNGduVlQvN2VQQ1ZaL3c9PQ==--b8af070801c6d13d7041b1060baf6b0b2f86db3f/t/sPPdN-QhbGBew-kbnLX/resource/work/35484427/PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_FED_DIET_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_TOMATO_POMACE?email_work_card=title

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/dVhDUDgwSXFFTHo0UVBldFNXOHFQVkhsbFZnVEphQm50U1FtK1BNc2JIRT0tLXZOQUhpcFFDZ2czSndMaXZDNGVWTVE9PQ==--3f889f2926497df89c9685f9795796f88b4c76c3/t/sPPdN-Qg4y1P2-UzbBy/resource/work/21181061/Growth_performance_carcass_quality_biochemical_and_haematological_traits_and_immune_response_of_growing_rabbits_as_affected_by_different_growth_promoters?email_work_card=title
Growth performance, carcass quality, biochemical and haematological traits and immune response of growing rabbits as affected by different growth promoters" by Youssef Attia]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/d1NVejZIa0VOYm5mUit1dG9xTVdkZ1VHOTB0QUM4aGhHS2xaTVQvcklSTT0tLS9zbXdWNDdBcXBnZFhySTA2Slhxdnc9PQ==--5649e5cdede150483096497d7b424e160c3a414a/t/sPPdN-QdV9eNq-9MtFF/resource/work/36496604/EVALUATION_OF_EGYPTIAN_TREE_WILLOW_Salix_safsafs_LEAVES_AND_ITS_FEEDING_AFFECT_ON_PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_RABBITS?email_work_card=title EVALUATION OF EGYPTIAN TREE WILLOW (Salix safsafs) LEAVES AND ITS FEEDING AFFECT ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBITS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEhlWjJsMlJyc3JCNDNVUlJUK05CaHR2V1NoYWMwVStxTlIrUWloZjEvbz0tLVZEdkJxZVYrc00zYm5aWE5kT0NTTEE9PQ==--b040db53fb351cf834d73ebd3dada957c02e4c95/t/sPPdN-Qfu5LUn-617sS/resource/work/36496613/UTILIZATION_OF_Ziziphus_spina_christi_LEAVES_AS_A_NATURAL_GROWTH_PROMOTER_IN_RABBITS_RATIONS?email_work_card=title UTILIZATION OF Ziziphus spina-christi LEAVES AS A NATURAL GROWTH PROMOTER IN RABBIT'S RATIONS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MzFNWE5hWklnWXhlcStJNExWNjBvcEhudjN1dTZNaVVjdzlnZGpyNVZnMD0tLU4veFVJRldVSElzRy9oN0k2U0tWa1E9PQ==--7562f212c75e4f5a0c8e066594e00fd0239031f2/t/sPPdN-QdyLbjc-qbmgV/resource/work/31846675/Effect_of_replacement_of_berseem_Trifolium_alexandrinum_L_hay_by_berseem_silage_on_performance_of_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title Effect of replacement of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) hay by berseem silage on performance of growing rabbits" by Hamed Gaafar]

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Oil added to feed]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YmlrSzU4SGRBZUJCbGViT0xjNDBZMk0vUGpVTzlFZnlWNjBtbFNSSGVMUT0tLWFlWGtLQVQycjFDSlU3ZmhTcURHdnc9PQ==--b809c3d7d0c75ba0dc95475b2ed5ba659e21e9b8/t/sPPdN-Qe1mzqP-AJQtS/resource/work/12250896/Improving_the_Utilization_of_Rabbit_Diets_Containing_Vegetable_Oil_by_Using_Fennel_Foeniculum_vulgare_And_Oregano_Origanum_vulgare_L_as_Feed_Additives?email_work_card=title Improving the Utilization of Rabbit Diets Containing Vegetable Oil by Using Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) And Oregano (Origanum vulgare L) as Feed Additives" by dr.azza badr]

Study of the effect of grape seed extract as a natural antioxidant on the performance of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits during summer season in Egypt Fawzia A. Hassan1; Khalid M. Mahrose2 and Mohamed Basyony3" by mohamed basyony
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Z0t1TlpMWlo4TjlkRmtURzkxY01MeWZMcEd2SmczNURyUE1GNm10Sy9jaz0tLWNBZ3pLMVZ6RDJ6dnJzeEhsRitsaGc9PQ==--3ea66988e3650ec90c1f8439baede86ffca6bf57/t/sPPdN-QdrCvu9-byFUwt/resource/work/21659194/Study_of_the_effect_of_grape_seed_extract_as_a_natural_antioxidant_on_the_performance_of_New_Zealand_White_NZW_rabbits_during_summer_season_in_Egypt_Fawzia_A_Hassan1_Khalid_M_Mahrose2_and_Mohamed_Basyony3?email_work_card=title

==notes to be incorporated ==

Usage of Hay in the Rabbit Diet

2025-08-12T00:07:39Z

BCAdmin: /* Feeding Recommendations and Balancing */

= Nuances of Hay in the Rabbit Diet =

== Introduction ==
Hay is a widely recommended component in domestic rabbit diets, traditionally valued for its high fiber content and its role in maintaining dental and digestive health. However, the nutritional value, fiber type, particle size, and feeding strategy have a significant impact on rabbit wellbeing, growth, and longevity. This page explores the complexities and scientific findings behind hay usage in rabbit nutrition.

== Fiber: Role and Digestion in Rabbits ==

Fiber plays a critical role in preventing digestive disorders and supporting gut health in rabbits. Reviews by Gidenne (1996), Gidenne et al. (1998d), and De Blas et al. (1999) emphasize the importance of dietary fiber—particularly indigestible fiber—in maintaining digestive motility and preventing gut stasis.

Recent work by Licois and Gidenne (1999) demonstrated that fiber also helps resistance against pathogenic agents. Furthermore, the initial health status of rabbits influences their susceptibility to digestive issues from low-fiber diets, with healthier rabbits experiencing fewer disorders (Bennegadi et al., 2000).

However, excessive fiber intake (over 25% Acid Detergent Fiber [ADF]) dilutes dietary energy, forcing rabbits to increase intake to meet energy demands. At very high fiber levels, rabbits cannot compensate by eating more, leading to reduced growth rates (Lebas & Gidenne, 2000).

=== Fiber Particle Size and Its Effects ===

Fiber particle size has significant effects on digestion, immunity, and mortality:

* Heterogeneous particle size in feed increases lignin content, reducing digestibility and potentially promoting digestive stress.
* Studies on New Zealand White crossbred rabbits show that optimal Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) levels combined with medium particle sizes (0.5–1.5 mm) minimize mortality rates (down to 0%) and reduce *E. coli* infections.
* Larger particle sizes correlate with increased leukocyte, eosinophil, and neutrophil counts, indicating an immune response linked to diet.
* Imbalances in particle size and fiber content increase digestive stress and disease susceptibility.

(Source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

=== Misconceptions About “Long Fiber” and Hay ===

Rabbits require both short and long fiber particles for gut health, but the term "long fiber" is misleading. Pellet fiber length is already sufficient for cecal fermentation and motility (Al-Khalaifah, 2019).

Excessive fiber intake above >24% accelerates gut transit time, impairing nutrient absorption and increasing the risk of digestive disorders such as mucoid enteropathy (Moore, 2022).

Additionally, excess indigestible fiber combined with protein encourages harmful bacterial overgrowth and ammonia toxicity by disrupting digestive microflora balance (Moore, 2022).

Hay contains lignin, which reduces protein and energy digestibility, increases stomach retention time, and raises the risk of functional impactions.

The coarse, loose fiber in hay is abrasive and can cause jaw stress and dental damage in domestic rabbits (Böhmer et al., 2017).
= Common Types of Hay and Their Nutritional Profiles=

*"There is a vast difference in the nutritional value of hay, depending on the type of hay, the quality of forage prior to preparation, and the type and manner of the curing process of hay."*
— Dr. T.E. Reed, Rabbit Specialist

This section provides an overview of commonly fed rabbit hays. For a **full and detailed list** of forage types, please visit \[[https://www.feedipedia.org/](https://www.feedipedia.org/) Feedipedia], which offers advanced nutritional analyses including detailed breakdowns of hays, grasses, legumes, forage, and grains.

The following is a quick summary of several popular forages and their nutrient profiles:
=== Timothy Hay ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Phleum pratense L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~13.8% Dry Matter (DM) — This is the best-case scenario; typically, store-bought Timothy that has been sitting for months has protein levels between 3% and 9%.
* Fiber: \~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7% to 10.9% DM

**Notes for Rabbits:**
Timothy hay has traditionally been recommended to provide fiber alongside concentrate feeds, particularly in smallholder meat production systems (Cassady et al., 1966; Schlolaut et al., 1995), and more recently for pet rabbit maintenance (McNitt et al., 2013). Unlike alfalfa hay, Timothy hay alone cannot sustain adult rabbits’ maintenance needs (Richards et al., 1962; Uden et al., 1982). However, it can make up to 60-75% of a balanced diet without causing health problems (Keener et al., 1958; Uden et al., 1982).

Timothy hay is relatively low in nutritional value. Digestible energy content ranges between 5.8 to 6.2 MJ/kg. Protein digestibility is limited—62% for early-cut young timothy (crude protein 17% DM) and only 42-47% for mature hays (crude protein <6% DM) (Voris et al., 1940; Richards et al., 1962). Its lysine content is also low, covering only about 70% of growing rabbits’ lysine requirements.

The very low calcium content (averaging 0.33%) can be beneficial or detrimental depending on the rest of the diet’s mineral balance.

=== Alfalfa Hay ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275) Medicago sativa L.] \[Fabaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.3% DM
* Fiber: \~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~4.5% DM

Alfalfa hay is widely regarded as a highly important forage in rabbit diets (Villamide et al., 2009). It is very palatable (de Blas et al., 2010), with recommended inclusion levels varying from 20% up to 96%, though most recommendations fall between 30-40% (de Blas et al., 2010; Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa provides long, digestible fiber promoting good gut transit and balanced cecal flora (de Blas et al., 2010). It lowers cecal pH and enhances fermentation (Garcia et al., 2005). For optimal function, alfalfa hay should be coarsely ground to preserve its “ballast” role and encourage intestinal motility (Mateos et al., 1989).

Substituting alfalfa with highly lignified fiber sources negatively affects energy digestibility, fermentation, growth, and feed efficiency (Garcia et al., 1999, 2000; Motta et al., 1996; Parigi-Bini et al., 1980). Studies show that dropping large fiber (alfalfa) below 21% of diet causes decreased growth, milk production, and litter weights (Nicodemus et al., 2006).

Alfalfa cannot fully meet commercial rabbits’ energy needs due to physiological ingestion limits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998). It supplies about 25% of dietary protein but with low digestibility and methionine content, making it less ideal for high growth rates (Villamide et al., 2010).

In regions where alfalfa is unavailable, other protein sources like bambara groundnut can substitute (Aganga et al., 2005).

Alfalfa is high in calcium, beneficial during growth but should be limited or avoided in adults to prevent urinary problems (Lowe, 2010). It is also rich in B vitamins, carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin K (Mateos et al., 2010).

High alfalfa inclusion (88%-96%) has been shown to reduce mortality rates by over 10% in rabbits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

=== Red Clover Hay ===
Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.7% DM
* Fiber: \~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa meal up to 30% in balanced diets without affecting growth, digestibility, or mortality (Grandi et al., 1988).

[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246) Red Clover Hay – Feedipedia]

=== Oat Forage ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500) Avena sativa L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.1% DM
* Fiber: \~34.0% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===

Grass hay is a broad category including timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermudagrass, and others. It generally contains lower protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals than legume hays but is high in fiber. Because of its lower nutrient density, supplementation is often necessary to meet all nutritional needs.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===

Blending legume and grass hays provides nutritional balance and often results in higher forage yields than monocultures. Ideal mixtures contain roughly one-third grass to two-thirds legume, with common pairings including orchardgrass/alfalfa and tall fescue/alfalfa. These mixes are palatable and healthy for all livestock types.

[[https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:\~](https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:~)\:text=Grass%20hay%20also%20comes%20from,is%20very%20high%20in%20fiber. Hay and Pasture Resources]

=== Bermuda Grass ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471) Cynodon dactylon Pers.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.8% DM
* Fiber: \~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~0.8% DM

== Hay Videos ==

* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?\_t=8VSUBshbIxG&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?_t=8VSUBshbIxG&_r=1) TikTok Video 1]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?\_t=8VSUCWs9s55&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?_t=8VSUCWs9s55&_r=1) TikTok Video 2]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?\_t=8VSUDNJgg15&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?_t=8VSUDNJgg15&_r=1) TikTok Video 3]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?\_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&_r=1) TikTok Video 4]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?\_t=8VSUKkABG1b&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?_t=8VSUKkABG1b&_r=1) TikTok Video 5]

== Quick Links to Hay Resources ==

* [[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Timothy]
* [[https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis](https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis) Understanding a Hay Analysis - Penn State Extension]
* [[https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf](https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf) Selecting Hay for Your Horse – Lori K. Warren, PhD, University of Florida]
* [[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/) Shape Variation in the Craniomandibular System and Prevalence of Dental Problems in Domestic Rabbits: A Case Study in Evolutionary Veterinary Science – Vet Sci. 2017 Mar; 4(1): 5]
* [[https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/](https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/) List of Hay Types Found in the US]
* [[https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages](https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages) Differences Between Grass and Legume Forages]
* [[https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/](https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/) All Hay Is Not Equal: Choose Your Livestock’s Carefully]

= Hay Quality and Storage Considerations =
Hay quality varies drastically depending on forage species, harvesting maturity, drying, and storage conditions. Improper curing or storage increases risk of mold and nutrient loss. Compressed bales can harbor internal moisture and spoilage if not managed properly.

Pelleted feeds also risk contamination if stored in humid conditions but are generally easier to protect.

= Feeding Recommendations and Balancing =
* Rabbits should be fed complete pellets as their main or sole ration. in the Pellet Balanced fiber content (around 18–22% NDF) combined with adequate protein (16–20%) and fat (3–4%) supports health and growth.
* Particle size should be consistent, ideally between 0.5–1.5 mm, to promote gut motility and reduce digestive stress.
* Hay should complement, not replace, a nutritionally balanced diet.
* Excessive fiber without sufficient digestible nutrients reduces growth and energy availability.

= Summary =
Hay remains a useful source of fiber in rabbit diets, but its role must be nuanced:

* Different hays vary widely in nutritional value and digestibility.
* Particle size and fiber composition impact digestive health and immune function.
* Excessive reliance on hay, especially poor-quality or high-lignin types, can reduce growth and cause dental strain.
* Balanced feeding of quality pellets is recommended for breeding and show rabbits.
* Proper storage and handling of hay are essential to maintain quality and safety.

= References =
* Lebas, F., Gidenne, T., et al. (2000–2004). Recent advances in rabbit nutrition. COST 848.
* Gidenne, T. (1996). Fiber digestion in rabbits.
* Licois, D., & Gidenne, T. (1999). Fiber and disease resistance in rabbits.
* Bennegadi, H., et al. (2000). Health status and low fiber diets.
* Villamide, M. J., et al. (2009). Alfalfa hay in rabbit diets.
* Grandi, F., et al. (1988). Red clover hay in rabbit nutrition.
* Reed, T.E. (n.d.). Hay feeding recommendations.
* [PMC Article on fiber particle size and mortality](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7054611/)
* [Scialert article on fiber particle size and immune response](https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

Usage of Hay in the Rabbit Diet

2025-08-12T00:06:26Z

BCAdmin: /* Hay Feeding Recommendations and Balancing */

= Nuances of Hay in the Rabbit Diet =

== Introduction ==
Hay is a widely recommended component in domestic rabbit diets, traditionally valued for its high fiber content and its role in maintaining dental and digestive health. However, the nutritional value, fiber type, particle size, and feeding strategy have a significant impact on rabbit wellbeing, growth, and longevity. This page explores the complexities and scientific findings behind hay usage in rabbit nutrition.

== Fiber: Role and Digestion in Rabbits ==

Fiber plays a critical role in preventing digestive disorders and supporting gut health in rabbits. Reviews by Gidenne (1996), Gidenne et al. (1998d), and De Blas et al. (1999) emphasize the importance of dietary fiber—particularly indigestible fiber—in maintaining digestive motility and preventing gut stasis.

Recent work by Licois and Gidenne (1999) demonstrated that fiber also helps resistance against pathogenic agents. Furthermore, the initial health status of rabbits influences their susceptibility to digestive issues from low-fiber diets, with healthier rabbits experiencing fewer disorders (Bennegadi et al., 2000).

However, excessive fiber intake (over 25% Acid Detergent Fiber [ADF]) dilutes dietary energy, forcing rabbits to increase intake to meet energy demands. At very high fiber levels, rabbits cannot compensate by eating more, leading to reduced growth rates (Lebas & Gidenne, 2000).

=== Fiber Particle Size and Its Effects ===

Fiber particle size has significant effects on digestion, immunity, and mortality:

* Heterogeneous particle size in feed increases lignin content, reducing digestibility and potentially promoting digestive stress.
* Studies on New Zealand White crossbred rabbits show that optimal Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) levels combined with medium particle sizes (0.5–1.5 mm) minimize mortality rates (down to 0%) and reduce *E. coli* infections.
* Larger particle sizes correlate with increased leukocyte, eosinophil, and neutrophil counts, indicating an immune response linked to diet.
* Imbalances in particle size and fiber content increase digestive stress and disease susceptibility.

(Source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

=== Misconceptions About “Long Fiber” and Hay ===

Rabbits require both short and long fiber particles for gut health, but the term "long fiber" is misleading. Pellet fiber length is already sufficient for cecal fermentation and motility (Al-Khalaifah, 2019).

Excessive fiber intake above >24% accelerates gut transit time, impairing nutrient absorption and increasing the risk of digestive disorders such as mucoid enteropathy (Moore, 2022).

Additionally, excess indigestible fiber combined with protein encourages harmful bacterial overgrowth and ammonia toxicity by disrupting digestive microflora balance (Moore, 2022).

Hay contains lignin, which reduces protein and energy digestibility, increases stomach retention time, and raises the risk of functional impactions.

The coarse, loose fiber in hay is abrasive and can cause jaw stress and dental damage in domestic rabbits (Böhmer et al., 2017).
= Common Types of Hay and Their Nutritional Profiles=

*"There is a vast difference in the nutritional value of hay, depending on the type of hay, the quality of forage prior to preparation, and the type and manner of the curing process of hay."*
— Dr. T.E. Reed, Rabbit Specialist

This section provides an overview of commonly fed rabbit hays. For a **full and detailed list** of forage types, please visit \[[https://www.feedipedia.org/](https://www.feedipedia.org/) Feedipedia], which offers advanced nutritional analyses including detailed breakdowns of hays, grasses, legumes, forage, and grains.

The following is a quick summary of several popular forages and their nutrient profiles:
=== Timothy Hay ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Phleum pratense L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~13.8% Dry Matter (DM) — This is the best-case scenario; typically, store-bought Timothy that has been sitting for months has protein levels between 3% and 9%.
* Fiber: \~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7% to 10.9% DM

**Notes for Rabbits:**
Timothy hay has traditionally been recommended to provide fiber alongside concentrate feeds, particularly in smallholder meat production systems (Cassady et al., 1966; Schlolaut et al., 1995), and more recently for pet rabbit maintenance (McNitt et al., 2013). Unlike alfalfa hay, Timothy hay alone cannot sustain adult rabbits’ maintenance needs (Richards et al., 1962; Uden et al., 1982). However, it can make up to 60-75% of a balanced diet without causing health problems (Keener et al., 1958; Uden et al., 1982).

Timothy hay is relatively low in nutritional value. Digestible energy content ranges between 5.8 to 6.2 MJ/kg. Protein digestibility is limited—62% for early-cut young timothy (crude protein 17% DM) and only 42-47% for mature hays (crude protein <6% DM) (Voris et al., 1940; Richards et al., 1962). Its lysine content is also low, covering only about 70% of growing rabbits’ lysine requirements.

The very low calcium content (averaging 0.33%) can be beneficial or detrimental depending on the rest of the diet’s mineral balance.

=== Alfalfa Hay ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275) Medicago sativa L.] \[Fabaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.3% DM
* Fiber: \~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~4.5% DM

Alfalfa hay is widely regarded as a highly important forage in rabbit diets (Villamide et al., 2009). It is very palatable (de Blas et al., 2010), with recommended inclusion levels varying from 20% up to 96%, though most recommendations fall between 30-40% (de Blas et al., 2010; Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa provides long, digestible fiber promoting good gut transit and balanced cecal flora (de Blas et al., 2010). It lowers cecal pH and enhances fermentation (Garcia et al., 2005). For optimal function, alfalfa hay should be coarsely ground to preserve its “ballast” role and encourage intestinal motility (Mateos et al., 1989).

Substituting alfalfa with highly lignified fiber sources negatively affects energy digestibility, fermentation, growth, and feed efficiency (Garcia et al., 1999, 2000; Motta et al., 1996; Parigi-Bini et al., 1980). Studies show that dropping large fiber (alfalfa) below 21% of diet causes decreased growth, milk production, and litter weights (Nicodemus et al., 2006).

Alfalfa cannot fully meet commercial rabbits’ energy needs due to physiological ingestion limits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998). It supplies about 25% of dietary protein but with low digestibility and methionine content, making it less ideal for high growth rates (Villamide et al., 2010).

In regions where alfalfa is unavailable, other protein sources like bambara groundnut can substitute (Aganga et al., 2005).

Alfalfa is high in calcium, beneficial during growth but should be limited or avoided in adults to prevent urinary problems (Lowe, 2010). It is also rich in B vitamins, carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin K (Mateos et al., 2010).

High alfalfa inclusion (88%-96%) has been shown to reduce mortality rates by over 10% in rabbits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

=== Red Clover Hay ===
Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.7% DM
* Fiber: \~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa meal up to 30% in balanced diets without affecting growth, digestibility, or mortality (Grandi et al., 1988).

[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246) Red Clover Hay – Feedipedia]

=== Oat Forage ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500) Avena sativa L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.1% DM
* Fiber: \~34.0% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===

Grass hay is a broad category including timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermudagrass, and others. It generally contains lower protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals than legume hays but is high in fiber. Because of its lower nutrient density, supplementation is often necessary to meet all nutritional needs.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===

Blending legume and grass hays provides nutritional balance and often results in higher forage yields than monocultures. Ideal mixtures contain roughly one-third grass to two-thirds legume, with common pairings including orchardgrass/alfalfa and tall fescue/alfalfa. These mixes are palatable and healthy for all livestock types.

[[https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:\~](https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:~)\:text=Grass%20hay%20also%20comes%20from,is%20very%20high%20in%20fiber. Hay and Pasture Resources]

=== Bermuda Grass ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471) Cynodon dactylon Pers.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.8% DM
* Fiber: \~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~0.8% DM

== Hay Videos ==

* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?\_t=8VSUBshbIxG&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?_t=8VSUBshbIxG&_r=1) TikTok Video 1]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?\_t=8VSUCWs9s55&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?_t=8VSUCWs9s55&_r=1) TikTok Video 2]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?\_t=8VSUDNJgg15&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?_t=8VSUDNJgg15&_r=1) TikTok Video 3]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?\_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&_r=1) TikTok Video 4]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?\_t=8VSUKkABG1b&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?_t=8VSUKkABG1b&_r=1) TikTok Video 5]

== Quick Links to Hay Resources ==

* [[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Timothy]
* [[https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis](https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis) Understanding a Hay Analysis - Penn State Extension]
* [[https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf](https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf) Selecting Hay for Your Horse – Lori K. Warren, PhD, University of Florida]
* [[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/) Shape Variation in the Craniomandibular System and Prevalence of Dental Problems in Domestic Rabbits: A Case Study in Evolutionary Veterinary Science – Vet Sci. 2017 Mar; 4(1): 5]
* [[https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/](https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/) List of Hay Types Found in the US]
* [[https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages](https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages) Differences Between Grass and Legume Forages]
* [[https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/](https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/) All Hay Is Not Equal: Choose Your Livestock’s Carefully]

= Hay Quality and Storage Considerations =
Hay quality varies drastically depending on forage species, harvesting maturity, drying, and storage conditions. Improper curing or storage increases risk of mold and nutrient loss. Compressed bales can harbor internal moisture and spoilage if not managed properly.

Pelleted feeds also risk contamination if stored in humid conditions but are generally easier to protect.

= Feeding Recommendations and Balancing =
* Balanced fiber content (around 18–22% NDF) combined with adequate protein (16–20%) and fat (3–4%) supports health and growth.
* Particle size should be consistent, ideally between 0.5–1.5 mm, to promote gut motility and reduce digestive stress.
* Hay should complement, not replace, a nutritionally balanced diet.
* Excessive fiber without sufficient digestible nutrients reduces growth and energy availability.

= Summary =
Hay remains a useful source of fiber in rabbit diets, but its role must be nuanced:

* Different hays vary widely in nutritional value and digestibility.
* Particle size and fiber composition impact digestive health and immune function.
* Excessive reliance on hay, especially poor-quality or high-lignin types, can reduce growth and cause dental strain.
* Balanced feeding of quality pellets is recommended for breeding and show rabbits.
* Proper storage and handling of hay are essential to maintain quality and safety.

= References =
* Lebas, F., Gidenne, T., et al. (2000–2004). Recent advances in rabbit nutrition. COST 848.
* Gidenne, T. (1996). Fiber digestion in rabbits.
* Licois, D., & Gidenne, T. (1999). Fiber and disease resistance in rabbits.
* Bennegadi, H., et al. (2000). Health status and low fiber diets.
* Villamide, M. J., et al. (2009). Alfalfa hay in rabbit diets.
* Grandi, F., et al. (1988). Red clover hay in rabbit nutrition.
* Reed, T.E. (n.d.). Hay feeding recommendations.
* [PMC Article on fiber particle size and mortality](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7054611/)
* [Scialert article on fiber particle size and immune response](https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

Usage of Hay in the Rabbit Diet

2025-08-12T00:05:34Z

BCAdmin:

= Nuances of Hay in the Rabbit Diet =

== Introduction ==
Hay is a widely recommended component in domestic rabbit diets, traditionally valued for its high fiber content and its role in maintaining dental and digestive health. However, the nutritional value, fiber type, particle size, and feeding strategy have a significant impact on rabbit wellbeing, growth, and longevity. This page explores the complexities and scientific findings behind hay usage in rabbit nutrition.

== Fiber: Role and Digestion in Rabbits ==

Fiber plays a critical role in preventing digestive disorders and supporting gut health in rabbits. Reviews by Gidenne (1996), Gidenne et al. (1998d), and De Blas et al. (1999) emphasize the importance of dietary fiber—particularly indigestible fiber—in maintaining digestive motility and preventing gut stasis.

Recent work by Licois and Gidenne (1999) demonstrated that fiber also helps resistance against pathogenic agents. Furthermore, the initial health status of rabbits influences their susceptibility to digestive issues from low-fiber diets, with healthier rabbits experiencing fewer disorders (Bennegadi et al., 2000).

However, excessive fiber intake (over 25% Acid Detergent Fiber [ADF]) dilutes dietary energy, forcing rabbits to increase intake to meet energy demands. At very high fiber levels, rabbits cannot compensate by eating more, leading to reduced growth rates (Lebas & Gidenne, 2000).

=== Fiber Particle Size and Its Effects ===

Fiber particle size has significant effects on digestion, immunity, and mortality:

* Heterogeneous particle size in feed increases lignin content, reducing digestibility and potentially promoting digestive stress.
* Studies on New Zealand White crossbred rabbits show that optimal Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) levels combined with medium particle sizes (0.5–1.5 mm) minimize mortality rates (down to 0%) and reduce *E. coli* infections.
* Larger particle sizes correlate with increased leukocyte, eosinophil, and neutrophil counts, indicating an immune response linked to diet.
* Imbalances in particle size and fiber content increase digestive stress and disease susceptibility.

(Source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

=== Misconceptions About “Long Fiber” and Hay ===

Rabbits require both short and long fiber particles for gut health, but the term "long fiber" is misleading. Pellet fiber length is already sufficient for cecal fermentation and motility (Al-Khalaifah, 2019).

Excessive fiber intake above >24% accelerates gut transit time, impairing nutrient absorption and increasing the risk of digestive disorders such as mucoid enteropathy (Moore, 2022).

Additionally, excess indigestible fiber combined with protein encourages harmful bacterial overgrowth and ammonia toxicity by disrupting digestive microflora balance (Moore, 2022).

Hay contains lignin, which reduces protein and energy digestibility, increases stomach retention time, and raises the risk of functional impactions.

The coarse, loose fiber in hay is abrasive and can cause jaw stress and dental damage in domestic rabbits (Böhmer et al., 2017).
= Hay Feeding Recommendations and Balancing =

*"There is a vast difference in the nutritional value of hay, depending on the type of hay, the quality of forage prior to preparation, and the type and manner of the curing process of hay."*
— Dr. T.E. Reed, Rabbit Specialist

This section provides an overview of commonly fed rabbit hays. For a **full and detailed list** of forage types, please visit \[[https://www.feedipedia.org/](https://www.feedipedia.org/) Feedipedia], which offers advanced nutritional analyses including detailed breakdowns of hays, grasses, legumes, forage, and grains.

The following is a quick summary of several popular forages and their nutrient profiles:
=== Timothy Hay ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Phleum pratense L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~13.8% Dry Matter (DM) — This is the best-case scenario; typically, store-bought Timothy that has been sitting for months has protein levels between 3% and 9%.
* Fiber: \~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7% to 10.9% DM

**Notes for Rabbits:**
Timothy hay has traditionally been recommended to provide fiber alongside concentrate feeds, particularly in smallholder meat production systems (Cassady et al., 1966; Schlolaut et al., 1995), and more recently for pet rabbit maintenance (McNitt et al., 2013). Unlike alfalfa hay, Timothy hay alone cannot sustain adult rabbits’ maintenance needs (Richards et al., 1962; Uden et al., 1982). However, it can make up to 60-75% of a balanced diet without causing health problems (Keener et al., 1958; Uden et al., 1982).

Timothy hay is relatively low in nutritional value. Digestible energy content ranges between 5.8 to 6.2 MJ/kg. Protein digestibility is limited—62% for early-cut young timothy (crude protein 17% DM) and only 42-47% for mature hays (crude protein <6% DM) (Voris et al., 1940; Richards et al., 1962). Its lysine content is also low, covering only about 70% of growing rabbits’ lysine requirements.

The very low calcium content (averaging 0.33%) can be beneficial or detrimental depending on the rest of the diet’s mineral balance.

=== Alfalfa Hay ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275) Medicago sativa L.] \[Fabaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.3% DM
* Fiber: \~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~4.5% DM

Alfalfa hay is widely regarded as a highly important forage in rabbit diets (Villamide et al., 2009). It is very palatable (de Blas et al., 2010), with recommended inclusion levels varying from 20% up to 96%, though most recommendations fall between 30-40% (de Blas et al., 2010; Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa provides long, digestible fiber promoting good gut transit and balanced cecal flora (de Blas et al., 2010). It lowers cecal pH and enhances fermentation (Garcia et al., 2005). For optimal function, alfalfa hay should be coarsely ground to preserve its “ballast” role and encourage intestinal motility (Mateos et al., 1989).

Substituting alfalfa with highly lignified fiber sources negatively affects energy digestibility, fermentation, growth, and feed efficiency (Garcia et al., 1999, 2000; Motta et al., 1996; Parigi-Bini et al., 1980). Studies show that dropping large fiber (alfalfa) below 21% of diet causes decreased growth, milk production, and litter weights (Nicodemus et al., 2006).

Alfalfa cannot fully meet commercial rabbits’ energy needs due to physiological ingestion limits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998). It supplies about 25% of dietary protein but with low digestibility and methionine content, making it less ideal for high growth rates (Villamide et al., 2010).

In regions where alfalfa is unavailable, other protein sources like bambara groundnut can substitute (Aganga et al., 2005).

Alfalfa is high in calcium, beneficial during growth but should be limited or avoided in adults to prevent urinary problems (Lowe, 2010). It is also rich in B vitamins, carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin K (Mateos et al., 2010).

High alfalfa inclusion (88%-96%) has been shown to reduce mortality rates by over 10% in rabbits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

=== Red Clover Hay ===
Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.7% DM
* Fiber: \~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa meal up to 30% in balanced diets without affecting growth, digestibility, or mortality (Grandi et al., 1988).

[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246) Red Clover Hay – Feedipedia]

=== Oat Forage ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500) Avena sativa L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.1% DM
* Fiber: \~34.0% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===

Grass hay is a broad category including timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermudagrass, and others. It generally contains lower protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals than legume hays but is high in fiber. Because of its lower nutrient density, supplementation is often necessary to meet all nutritional needs.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===

Blending legume and grass hays provides nutritional balance and often results in higher forage yields than monocultures. Ideal mixtures contain roughly one-third grass to two-thirds legume, with common pairings including orchardgrass/alfalfa and tall fescue/alfalfa. These mixes are palatable and healthy for all livestock types.

[[https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:\~](https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:~)\:text=Grass%20hay%20also%20comes%20from,is%20very%20high%20in%20fiber. Hay and Pasture Resources]

=== Bermuda Grass ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471) Cynodon dactylon Pers.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.8% DM
* Fiber: \~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~0.8% DM

== Hay Videos ==

* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?\_t=8VSUBshbIxG&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?_t=8VSUBshbIxG&_r=1) TikTok Video 1]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?\_t=8VSUCWs9s55&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?_t=8VSUCWs9s55&_r=1) TikTok Video 2]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?\_t=8VSUDNJgg15&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?_t=8VSUDNJgg15&_r=1) TikTok Video 3]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?\_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&_r=1) TikTok Video 4]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?\_t=8VSUKkABG1b&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?_t=8VSUKkABG1b&_r=1) TikTok Video 5]

== Quick Links to Hay Resources ==

* [[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Timothy]
* [[https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis](https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis) Understanding a Hay Analysis - Penn State Extension]
* [[https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf](https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf) Selecting Hay for Your Horse – Lori K. Warren, PhD, University of Florida]
* [[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/) Shape Variation in the Craniomandibular System and Prevalence of Dental Problems in Domestic Rabbits: A Case Study in Evolutionary Veterinary Science – Vet Sci. 2017 Mar; 4(1): 5]
* [[https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/](https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/) List of Hay Types Found in the US]
* [[https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages](https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages) Differences Between Grass and Legume Forages]
* [[https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/](https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/) All Hay Is Not Equal: Choose Your Livestock’s Carefully]

= Hay Quality and Storage Considerations =
Hay quality varies drastically depending on forage species, harvesting maturity, drying, and storage conditions. Improper curing or storage increases risk of mold and nutrient loss. Compressed bales can harbor internal moisture and spoilage if not managed properly.

Pelleted feeds also risk contamination if stored in humid conditions but are generally easier to protect.

= Feeding Recommendations and Balancing =
* Balanced fiber content (around 18–22% NDF) combined with adequate protein (16–20%) and fat (3–4%) supports health and growth.
* Particle size should be consistent, ideally between 0.5–1.5 mm, to promote gut motility and reduce digestive stress.
* Hay should complement, not replace, a nutritionally balanced diet.
* Excessive fiber without sufficient digestible nutrients reduces growth and energy availability.

= Summary =
Hay remains a useful source of fiber in rabbit diets, but its role must be nuanced:

* Different hays vary widely in nutritional value and digestibility.
* Particle size and fiber composition impact digestive health and immune function.
* Excessive reliance on hay, especially poor-quality or high-lignin types, can reduce growth and cause dental strain.
* Balanced feeding of quality pellets is recommended for breeding and show rabbits.
* Proper storage and handling of hay are essential to maintain quality and safety.

= References =
* Lebas, F., Gidenne, T., et al. (2000–2004). Recent advances in rabbit nutrition. COST 848.
* Gidenne, T. (1996). Fiber digestion in rabbits.
* Licois, D., & Gidenne, T. (1999). Fiber and disease resistance in rabbits.
* Bennegadi, H., et al. (2000). Health status and low fiber diets.
* Villamide, M. J., et al. (2009). Alfalfa hay in rabbit diets.
* Grandi, F., et al. (1988). Red clover hay in rabbit nutrition.
* Reed, T.E. (n.d.). Hay feeding recommendations.
* [PMC Article on fiber particle size and mortality](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7054611/)
* [Scialert article on fiber particle size and immune response](https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

Usage of Hay in the Rabbit Diet

2025-08-12T00:05:05Z

BCAdmin: /* Hay Quality and Storage Considerations */

= Nuances of Hay in the Rabbit Diet =

== Introduction ==
Hay is a widely recommended component in domestic rabbit diets, traditionally valued for its high fiber content and its role in maintaining dental and digestive health. However, the nutritional value, fiber type, particle size, and feeding strategy have a significant impact on rabbit wellbeing, growth, and longevity. This page explores the complexities and scientific findings behind hay usage in rabbit nutrition.

== Fiber: Role and Digestion in Rabbits ==

Fiber plays a critical role in preventing digestive disorders and supporting gut health in rabbits. Reviews by Gidenne (1996), Gidenne et al. (1998d), and De Blas et al. (1999) emphasize the importance of dietary fiber—particularly indigestible fiber—in maintaining digestive motility and preventing gut stasis.

Recent work by Licois and Gidenne (1999) demonstrated that fiber also helps resistance against pathogenic agents. Furthermore, the initial health status of rabbits influences their susceptibility to digestive issues from low-fiber diets, with healthier rabbits experiencing fewer disorders (Bennegadi et al., 2000).

However, excessive fiber intake (over 25% Acid Detergent Fiber [ADF]) dilutes dietary energy, forcing rabbits to increase intake to meet energy demands. At very high fiber levels, rabbits cannot compensate by eating more, leading to reduced growth rates (Lebas & Gidenne, 2000).

=== Fiber Particle Size and Its Effects ===

Fiber particle size has significant effects on digestion, immunity, and mortality:

* Heterogeneous particle size in feed increases lignin content, reducing digestibility and potentially promoting digestive stress.
* Studies on New Zealand White crossbred rabbits show that optimal Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) levels combined with medium particle sizes (0.5–1.5 mm) minimize mortality rates (down to 0%) and reduce *E. coli* infections.
* Larger particle sizes correlate with increased leukocyte, eosinophil, and neutrophil counts, indicating an immune response linked to diet.
* Imbalances in particle size and fiber content increase digestive stress and disease susceptibility.

(Source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

=== Misconceptions About “Long Fiber” and Hay ===

Rabbits require both short and long fiber particles for gut health, but the term "long fiber" is misleading. Pellet fiber length is already sufficient for cecal fermentation and motility (Al-Khalaifah, 2019).

Excessive fiber intake above >24% accelerates gut transit time, impairing nutrient absorption and increasing the risk of digestive disorders such as mucoid enteropathy (Moore, 2022).

Additionally, excess indigestible fiber combined with protein encourages harmful bacterial overgrowth and ammonia toxicity by disrupting digestive microflora balance (Moore, 2022).

Hay contains lignin, which reduces protein and energy digestibility, increases stomach retention time, and raises the risk of functional impactions.

The coarse, loose fiber in hay is abrasive and can cause jaw stress and dental damage in domestic rabbits (Böhmer et al., 2017).
= Hay Feeding Recommendations and Balancing =

*"There is a vast difference in the nutritional value of hay, depending on the type of hay, the quality of forage prior to preparation, and the type and manner of the curing process of hay."*
— Dr. T.E. Reed, Rabbit Specialist

This section provides an overview of commonly fed rabbit hays. For a **full and detailed list** of forage types, please visit \[[https://www.feedipedia.org/](https://www.feedipedia.org/) Feedipedia], which offers advanced nutritional analyses including detailed breakdowns of hays, grasses, legumes, forage, and grains.

The following is a quick summary of several popular forages and their nutrient profiles:
=== Timothy Hay ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Phleum pratense L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~13.8% Dry Matter (DM) — This is the best-case scenario; typically, store-bought Timothy that has been sitting for months has protein levels between 3% and 9%.
* Fiber: \~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7% to 10.9% DM

**Notes for Rabbits:**
Timothy hay has traditionally been recommended to provide fiber alongside concentrate feeds, particularly in smallholder meat production systems (Cassady et al., 1966; Schlolaut et al., 1995), and more recently for pet rabbit maintenance (McNitt et al., 2013). Unlike alfalfa hay, Timothy hay alone cannot sustain adult rabbits’ maintenance needs (Richards et al., 1962; Uden et al., 1982). However, it can make up to 60-75% of a balanced diet without causing health problems (Keener et al., 1958; Uden et al., 1982).

Timothy hay is relatively low in nutritional value. Digestible energy content ranges between 5.8 to 6.2 MJ/kg. Protein digestibility is limited—62% for early-cut young timothy (crude protein 17% DM) and only 42-47% for mature hays (crude protein <6% DM) (Voris et al., 1940; Richards et al., 1962). Its lysine content is also low, covering only about 70% of growing rabbits’ lysine requirements.

The very low calcium content (averaging 0.33%) can be beneficial or detrimental depending on the rest of the diet’s mineral balance.

=== Alfalfa Hay ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275) Medicago sativa L.] \[Fabaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.3% DM
* Fiber: \~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~4.5% DM

Alfalfa hay is widely regarded as a highly important forage in rabbit diets (Villamide et al., 2009). It is very palatable (de Blas et al., 2010), with recommended inclusion levels varying from 20% up to 96%, though most recommendations fall between 30-40% (de Blas et al., 2010; Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa provides long, digestible fiber promoting good gut transit and balanced cecal flora (de Blas et al., 2010). It lowers cecal pH and enhances fermentation (Garcia et al., 2005). For optimal function, alfalfa hay should be coarsely ground to preserve its “ballast” role and encourage intestinal motility (Mateos et al., 1989).

Substituting alfalfa with highly lignified fiber sources negatively affects energy digestibility, fermentation, growth, and feed efficiency (Garcia et al., 1999, 2000; Motta et al., 1996; Parigi-Bini et al., 1980). Studies show that dropping large fiber (alfalfa) below 21% of diet causes decreased growth, milk production, and litter weights (Nicodemus et al., 2006).

Alfalfa cannot fully meet commercial rabbits’ energy needs due to physiological ingestion limits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998). It supplies about 25% of dietary protein but with low digestibility and methionine content, making it less ideal for high growth rates (Villamide et al., 2010).

In regions where alfalfa is unavailable, other protein sources like bambara groundnut can substitute (Aganga et al., 2005).

Alfalfa is high in calcium, beneficial during growth but should be limited or avoided in adults to prevent urinary problems (Lowe, 2010). It is also rich in B vitamins, carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin K (Mateos et al., 2010).

High alfalfa inclusion (88%-96%) has been shown to reduce mortality rates by over 10% in rabbits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

=== Red Clover Hay ===
Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.7% DM
* Fiber: \~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa meal up to 30% in balanced diets without affecting growth, digestibility, or mortality (Grandi et al., 1988).

[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246) Red Clover Hay – Feedipedia]

=== Oat Forage ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500) Avena sativa L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.1% DM
* Fiber: \~34.0% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===

Grass hay is a broad category including timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermudagrass, and others. It generally contains lower protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals than legume hays but is high in fiber. Because of its lower nutrient density, supplementation is often necessary to meet all nutritional needs.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===

Blending legume and grass hays provides nutritional balance and often results in higher forage yields than monocultures. Ideal mixtures contain roughly one-third grass to two-thirds legume, with common pairings including orchardgrass/alfalfa and tall fescue/alfalfa. These mixes are palatable and healthy for all livestock types.

[[https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:\~](https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:~)\:text=Grass%20hay%20also%20comes%20from,is%20very%20high%20in%20fiber. Hay and Pasture Resources]

=== Bermuda Grass ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471) Cynodon dactylon Pers.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.8% DM
* Fiber: \~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~0.8% DM

== Hay Videos ==

* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?\_t=8VSUBshbIxG&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?_t=8VSUBshbIxG&_r=1) TikTok Video 1]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?\_t=8VSUCWs9s55&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?_t=8VSUCWs9s55&_r=1) TikTok Video 2]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?\_t=8VSUDNJgg15&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?_t=8VSUDNJgg15&_r=1) TikTok Video 3]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?\_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&_r=1) TikTok Video 4]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?\_t=8VSUKkABG1b&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?_t=8VSUKkABG1b&_r=1) TikTok Video 5]

== Quick Links to Hay Resources ==

* [[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Timothy]
* [[https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis](https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis) Understanding a Hay Analysis - Penn State Extension]
* [[https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf](https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf) Selecting Hay for Your Horse – Lori K. Warren, PhD, University of Florida]
* [[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/) Shape Variation in the Craniomandibular System and Prevalence of Dental Problems in Domestic Rabbits: A Case Study in Evolutionary Veterinary Science – Vet Sci. 2017 Mar; 4(1): 5]
* [[https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/](https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/) List of Hay Types Found in the US]
* [[https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages](https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages) Differences Between Grass and Legume Forages]
* [[https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/](https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/) All Hay Is Not Equal: Choose Your Livestock’s Carefully]

= Hay Quality and Storage Considerations =
Hay quality varies drastically depending on forage species, harvesting maturity, drying, and storage conditions. Improper curing or storage increases risk of mold and nutrient loss. Compressed bales can harbor internal moisture and spoilage if not managed properly.

Pelleted feeds also risk contamination if stored in humid conditions but are generally easier to protect.

== Feeding Recommendations and Balancing ==
* Balanced fiber content (around 18–22% NDF) combined with adequate protein (16–20%) and fat (3–4%) supports health and growth.
* Particle size should be consistent, ideally between 0.5–1.5 mm, to promote gut motility and reduce digestive stress.
* Hay should complement, not replace, a nutritionally balanced diet.
* Excessive fiber without sufficient digestible nutrients reduces growth and energy availability.

== Summary ==
Hay remains a useful source of fiber in rabbit diets, but its role must be nuanced:

* Different hays vary widely in nutritional value and digestibility.
* Particle size and fiber composition impact digestive health and immune function.
* Excessive reliance on hay, especially poor-quality or high-lignin types, can reduce growth and cause dental strain.
* Balanced feeding of quality pellets is recommended for breeding and show rabbits.
* Proper storage and handling of hay are essential to maintain quality and safety.

== References ==
* Lebas, F., Gidenne, T., et al. (2000–2004). Recent advances in rabbit nutrition. COST 848.
* Gidenne, T. (1996). Fiber digestion in rabbits.
* Licois, D., & Gidenne, T. (1999). Fiber and disease resistance in rabbits.
* Bennegadi, H., et al. (2000). Health status and low fiber diets.
* Villamide, M. J., et al. (2009). Alfalfa hay in rabbit diets.
* Grandi, F., et al. (1988). Red clover hay in rabbit nutrition.
* Reed, T.E. (n.d.). Hay feeding recommendations.
* [PMC Article on fiber particle size and mortality](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7054611/)
* [Scialert article on fiber particle size and immune response](https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

Usage of Hay in the Rabbit Diet

2025-08-12T00:04:21Z

BCAdmin: /* Timothy Hay */

= Nuances of Hay in the Rabbit Diet =

== Introduction ==
Hay is a widely recommended component in domestic rabbit diets, traditionally valued for its high fiber content and its role in maintaining dental and digestive health. However, the nutritional value, fiber type, particle size, and feeding strategy have a significant impact on rabbit wellbeing, growth, and longevity. This page explores the complexities and scientific findings behind hay usage in rabbit nutrition.

== Fiber: Role and Digestion in Rabbits ==

Fiber plays a critical role in preventing digestive disorders and supporting gut health in rabbits. Reviews by Gidenne (1996), Gidenne et al. (1998d), and De Blas et al. (1999) emphasize the importance of dietary fiber—particularly indigestible fiber—in maintaining digestive motility and preventing gut stasis.

Recent work by Licois and Gidenne (1999) demonstrated that fiber also helps resistance against pathogenic agents. Furthermore, the initial health status of rabbits influences their susceptibility to digestive issues from low-fiber diets, with healthier rabbits experiencing fewer disorders (Bennegadi et al., 2000).

However, excessive fiber intake (over 25% Acid Detergent Fiber [ADF]) dilutes dietary energy, forcing rabbits to increase intake to meet energy demands. At very high fiber levels, rabbits cannot compensate by eating more, leading to reduced growth rates (Lebas & Gidenne, 2000).

=== Fiber Particle Size and Its Effects ===

Fiber particle size has significant effects on digestion, immunity, and mortality:

* Heterogeneous particle size in feed increases lignin content, reducing digestibility and potentially promoting digestive stress.
* Studies on New Zealand White crossbred rabbits show that optimal Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) levels combined with medium particle sizes (0.5–1.5 mm) minimize mortality rates (down to 0%) and reduce *E. coli* infections.
* Larger particle sizes correlate with increased leukocyte, eosinophil, and neutrophil counts, indicating an immune response linked to diet.
* Imbalances in particle size and fiber content increase digestive stress and disease susceptibility.

(Source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

=== Misconceptions About “Long Fiber” and Hay ===

Rabbits require both short and long fiber particles for gut health, but the term "long fiber" is misleading. Pellet fiber length is already sufficient for cecal fermentation and motility (Al-Khalaifah, 2019).

Excessive fiber intake above >24% accelerates gut transit time, impairing nutrient absorption and increasing the risk of digestive disorders such as mucoid enteropathy (Moore, 2022).

Additionally, excess indigestible fiber combined with protein encourages harmful bacterial overgrowth and ammonia toxicity by disrupting digestive microflora balance (Moore, 2022).

Hay contains lignin, which reduces protein and energy digestibility, increases stomach retention time, and raises the risk of functional impactions.

The coarse, loose fiber in hay is abrasive and can cause jaw stress and dental damage in domestic rabbits (Böhmer et al., 2017).
= Hay Feeding Recommendations and Balancing =

*"There is a vast difference in the nutritional value of hay, depending on the type of hay, the quality of forage prior to preparation, and the type and manner of the curing process of hay."*
— Dr. T.E. Reed, Rabbit Specialist

This section provides an overview of commonly fed rabbit hays. For a **full and detailed list** of forage types, please visit \[[https://www.feedipedia.org/](https://www.feedipedia.org/) Feedipedia], which offers advanced nutritional analyses including detailed breakdowns of hays, grasses, legumes, forage, and grains.

The following is a quick summary of several popular forages and their nutrient profiles:
=== Timothy Hay ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Phleum pratense L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~13.8% Dry Matter (DM) — This is the best-case scenario; typically, store-bought Timothy that has been sitting for months has protein levels between 3% and 9%.
* Fiber: \~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7% to 10.9% DM

**Notes for Rabbits:**
Timothy hay has traditionally been recommended to provide fiber alongside concentrate feeds, particularly in smallholder meat production systems (Cassady et al., 1966; Schlolaut et al., 1995), and more recently for pet rabbit maintenance (McNitt et al., 2013). Unlike alfalfa hay, Timothy hay alone cannot sustain adult rabbits’ maintenance needs (Richards et al., 1962; Uden et al., 1982). However, it can make up to 60-75% of a balanced diet without causing health problems (Keener et al., 1958; Uden et al., 1982).

Timothy hay is relatively low in nutritional value. Digestible energy content ranges between 5.8 to 6.2 MJ/kg. Protein digestibility is limited—62% for early-cut young timothy (crude protein 17% DM) and only 42-47% for mature hays (crude protein <6% DM) (Voris et al., 1940; Richards et al., 1962). Its lysine content is also low, covering only about 70% of growing rabbits’ lysine requirements.

The very low calcium content (averaging 0.33%) can be beneficial or detrimental depending on the rest of the diet’s mineral balance.

=== Alfalfa Hay ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275) Medicago sativa L.] \[Fabaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.3% DM
* Fiber: \~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~4.5% DM

Alfalfa hay is widely regarded as a highly important forage in rabbit diets (Villamide et al., 2009). It is very palatable (de Blas et al., 2010), with recommended inclusion levels varying from 20% up to 96%, though most recommendations fall between 30-40% (de Blas et al., 2010; Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa provides long, digestible fiber promoting good gut transit and balanced cecal flora (de Blas et al., 2010). It lowers cecal pH and enhances fermentation (Garcia et al., 2005). For optimal function, alfalfa hay should be coarsely ground to preserve its “ballast” role and encourage intestinal motility (Mateos et al., 1989).

Substituting alfalfa with highly lignified fiber sources negatively affects energy digestibility, fermentation, growth, and feed efficiency (Garcia et al., 1999, 2000; Motta et al., 1996; Parigi-Bini et al., 1980). Studies show that dropping large fiber (alfalfa) below 21% of diet causes decreased growth, milk production, and litter weights (Nicodemus et al., 2006).

Alfalfa cannot fully meet commercial rabbits’ energy needs due to physiological ingestion limits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998). It supplies about 25% of dietary protein but with low digestibility and methionine content, making it less ideal for high growth rates (Villamide et al., 2010).

In regions where alfalfa is unavailable, other protein sources like bambara groundnut can substitute (Aganga et al., 2005).

Alfalfa is high in calcium, beneficial during growth but should be limited or avoided in adults to prevent urinary problems (Lowe, 2010). It is also rich in B vitamins, carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin K (Mateos et al., 2010).

High alfalfa inclusion (88%-96%) has been shown to reduce mortality rates by over 10% in rabbits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

=== Red Clover Hay ===
Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.7% DM
* Fiber: \~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa meal up to 30% in balanced diets without affecting growth, digestibility, or mortality (Grandi et al., 1988).

[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246) Red Clover Hay – Feedipedia]

=== Oat Forage ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500) Avena sativa L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.1% DM
* Fiber: \~34.0% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===

Grass hay is a broad category including timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermudagrass, and others. It generally contains lower protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals than legume hays but is high in fiber. Because of its lower nutrient density, supplementation is often necessary to meet all nutritional needs.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===

Blending legume and grass hays provides nutritional balance and often results in higher forage yields than monocultures. Ideal mixtures contain roughly one-third grass to two-thirds legume, with common pairings including orchardgrass/alfalfa and tall fescue/alfalfa. These mixes are palatable and healthy for all livestock types.

[[https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:\~](https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:~)\:text=Grass%20hay%20also%20comes%20from,is%20very%20high%20in%20fiber. Hay and Pasture Resources]

=== Bermuda Grass ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471) Cynodon dactylon Pers.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.8% DM
* Fiber: \~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~0.8% DM

== Hay Videos ==

* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?\_t=8VSUBshbIxG&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?_t=8VSUBshbIxG&_r=1) TikTok Video 1]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?\_t=8VSUCWs9s55&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?_t=8VSUCWs9s55&_r=1) TikTok Video 2]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?\_t=8VSUDNJgg15&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?_t=8VSUDNJgg15&_r=1) TikTok Video 3]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?\_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&_r=1) TikTok Video 4]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?\_t=8VSUKkABG1b&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?_t=8VSUKkABG1b&_r=1) TikTok Video 5]

== Quick Links to Hay Resources ==

* [[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Timothy]
* [[https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis](https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis) Understanding a Hay Analysis - Penn State Extension]
* [[https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf](https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf) Selecting Hay for Your Horse – Lori K. Warren, PhD, University of Florida]
* [[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/) Shape Variation in the Craniomandibular System and Prevalence of Dental Problems in Domestic Rabbits: A Case Study in Evolutionary Veterinary Science – Vet Sci. 2017 Mar; 4(1): 5]
* [[https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/](https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/) List of Hay Types Found in the US]
* [[https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages](https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages) Differences Between Grass and Legume Forages]
* [[https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/](https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/) All Hay Is Not Equal: Choose Your Livestock’s Carefully]

== Hay Quality and Storage Considerations ==
Hay quality varies drastically depending on forage species, harvesting maturity, drying, and storage conditions. Improper curing or storage increases risk of mold and nutrient loss. Compressed bales can harbor internal moisture and spoilage if not managed properly.

Pelleted feeds also risk contamination if stored in humid conditions but are generally easier to protect.

== Feeding Recommendations and Balancing ==
* Balanced fiber content (around 18–22% NDF) combined with adequate protein (16–20%) and fat (3–4%) supports health and growth.
* Particle size should be consistent, ideally between 0.5–1.5 mm, to promote gut motility and reduce digestive stress.
* Hay should complement, not replace, a nutritionally balanced diet.
* Excessive fiber without sufficient digestible nutrients reduces growth and energy availability.

== Summary ==
Hay remains a useful source of fiber in rabbit diets, but its role must be nuanced:

* Different hays vary widely in nutritional value and digestibility.
* Particle size and fiber composition impact digestive health and immune function.
* Excessive reliance on hay, especially poor-quality or high-lignin types, can reduce growth and cause dental strain.
* Balanced feeding of quality pellets is recommended for breeding and show rabbits.
* Proper storage and handling of hay are essential to maintain quality and safety.

== References ==
* Lebas, F., Gidenne, T., et al. (2000–2004). Recent advances in rabbit nutrition. COST 848.
* Gidenne, T. (1996). Fiber digestion in rabbits.
* Licois, D., & Gidenne, T. (1999). Fiber and disease resistance in rabbits.
* Bennegadi, H., et al. (2000). Health status and low fiber diets.
* Villamide, M. J., et al. (2009). Alfalfa hay in rabbit diets.
* Grandi, F., et al. (1988). Red clover hay in rabbit nutrition.
* Reed, T.E. (n.d.). Hay feeding recommendations.
* [PMC Article on fiber particle size and mortality](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7054611/)
* [Scialert article on fiber particle size and immune response](https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

Usage of Hay in the Rabbit Diet

2025-08-12T00:04:13Z

BCAdmin: /* Misconceptions About “Long Fiber” and Hay */

= Nuances of Hay in the Rabbit Diet =

== Introduction ==
Hay is a widely recommended component in domestic rabbit diets, traditionally valued for its high fiber content and its role in maintaining dental and digestive health. However, the nutritional value, fiber type, particle size, and feeding strategy have a significant impact on rabbit wellbeing, growth, and longevity. This page explores the complexities and scientific findings behind hay usage in rabbit nutrition.

== Fiber: Role and Digestion in Rabbits ==

Fiber plays a critical role in preventing digestive disorders and supporting gut health in rabbits. Reviews by Gidenne (1996), Gidenne et al. (1998d), and De Blas et al. (1999) emphasize the importance of dietary fiber—particularly indigestible fiber—in maintaining digestive motility and preventing gut stasis.

Recent work by Licois and Gidenne (1999) demonstrated that fiber also helps resistance against pathogenic agents. Furthermore, the initial health status of rabbits influences their susceptibility to digestive issues from low-fiber diets, with healthier rabbits experiencing fewer disorders (Bennegadi et al., 2000).

However, excessive fiber intake (over 25% Acid Detergent Fiber [ADF]) dilutes dietary energy, forcing rabbits to increase intake to meet energy demands. At very high fiber levels, rabbits cannot compensate by eating more, leading to reduced growth rates (Lebas & Gidenne, 2000).

=== Fiber Particle Size and Its Effects ===

Fiber particle size has significant effects on digestion, immunity, and mortality:

* Heterogeneous particle size in feed increases lignin content, reducing digestibility and potentially promoting digestive stress.
* Studies on New Zealand White crossbred rabbits show that optimal Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) levels combined with medium particle sizes (0.5–1.5 mm) minimize mortality rates (down to 0%) and reduce *E. coli* infections.
* Larger particle sizes correlate with increased leukocyte, eosinophil, and neutrophil counts, indicating an immune response linked to diet.
* Imbalances in particle size and fiber content increase digestive stress and disease susceptibility.

(Source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

=== Misconceptions About “Long Fiber” and Hay ===

Rabbits require both short and long fiber particles for gut health, but the term "long fiber" is misleading. Pellet fiber length is already sufficient for cecal fermentation and motility (Al-Khalaifah, 2019).

Excessive fiber intake above >24% accelerates gut transit time, impairing nutrient absorption and increasing the risk of digestive disorders such as mucoid enteropathy (Moore, 2022).

Additionally, excess indigestible fiber combined with protein encourages harmful bacterial overgrowth and ammonia toxicity by disrupting digestive microflora balance (Moore, 2022).

Hay contains lignin, which reduces protein and energy digestibility, increases stomach retention time, and raises the risk of functional impactions.

The coarse, loose fiber in hay is abrasive and can cause jaw stress and dental damage in domestic rabbits (Böhmer et al., 2017).
= Hay Feeding Recommendations and Balancing =

*"There is a vast difference in the nutritional value of hay, depending on the type of hay, the quality of forage prior to preparation, and the type and manner of the curing process of hay."*
— Dr. T.E. Reed, Rabbit Specialist

This section provides an overview of commonly fed rabbit hays. For a **full and detailed list** of forage types, please visit \[[https://www.feedipedia.org/](https://www.feedipedia.org/) Feedipedia], which offers advanced nutritional analyses including detailed breakdowns of hays, grasses, legumes, forage, and grains.

The following is a quick summary of several popular forages and their nutrient profiles:
=== Timothy Hay ===
*\[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Phleum pratense L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~13.8% Dry Matter (DM) — This is the best-case scenario; typically, store-bought Timothy that has been sitting for months has protein levels between 3% and 9%.
* Fiber: \~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7% to 10.9% DM

**Notes for Rabbits:**
Timothy hay has traditionally been recommended to provide fiber alongside concentrate feeds, particularly in smallholder meat production systems (Cassady et al., 1966; Schlolaut et al., 1995), and more recently for pet rabbit maintenance (McNitt et al., 2013). Unlike alfalfa hay, Timothy hay alone cannot sustain adult rabbits’ maintenance needs (Richards et al., 1962; Uden et al., 1982). However, it can make up to 60-75% of a balanced diet without causing health problems (Keener et al., 1958; Uden et al., 1982).

Timothy hay is relatively low in nutritional value. Digestible energy content ranges between 5.8 to 6.2 MJ/kg. Protein digestibility is limited—62% for early-cut young timothy (crude protein 17% DM) and only 42-47% for mature hays (crude protein <6% DM) (Voris et al., 1940; Richards et al., 1962). Its lysine content is also low, covering only about 70% of growing rabbits’ lysine requirements.

The very low calcium content (averaging 0.33%) can be beneficial or detrimental depending on the rest of the diet’s mineral balance.

=== Alfalfa Hay ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275) Medicago sativa L.] \[Fabaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.3% DM
* Fiber: \~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~4.5% DM

Alfalfa hay is widely regarded as a highly important forage in rabbit diets (Villamide et al., 2009). It is very palatable (de Blas et al., 2010), with recommended inclusion levels varying from 20% up to 96%, though most recommendations fall between 30-40% (de Blas et al., 2010; Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa provides long, digestible fiber promoting good gut transit and balanced cecal flora (de Blas et al., 2010). It lowers cecal pH and enhances fermentation (Garcia et al., 2005). For optimal function, alfalfa hay should be coarsely ground to preserve its “ballast” role and encourage intestinal motility (Mateos et al., 1989).

Substituting alfalfa with highly lignified fiber sources negatively affects energy digestibility, fermentation, growth, and feed efficiency (Garcia et al., 1999, 2000; Motta et al., 1996; Parigi-Bini et al., 1980). Studies show that dropping large fiber (alfalfa) below 21% of diet causes decreased growth, milk production, and litter weights (Nicodemus et al., 2006).

Alfalfa cannot fully meet commercial rabbits’ energy needs due to physiological ingestion limits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998). It supplies about 25% of dietary protein but with low digestibility and methionine content, making it less ideal for high growth rates (Villamide et al., 2010).

In regions where alfalfa is unavailable, other protein sources like bambara groundnut can substitute (Aganga et al., 2005).

Alfalfa is high in calcium, beneficial during growth but should be limited or avoided in adults to prevent urinary problems (Lowe, 2010). It is also rich in B vitamins, carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin K (Mateos et al., 2010).

High alfalfa inclusion (88%-96%) has been shown to reduce mortality rates by over 10% in rabbits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

=== Red Clover Hay ===
Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.7% DM
* Fiber: \~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa meal up to 30% in balanced diets without affecting growth, digestibility, or mortality (Grandi et al., 1988).

[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246) Red Clover Hay – Feedipedia]

=== Oat Forage ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500) Avena sativa L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.1% DM
* Fiber: \~34.0% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===

Grass hay is a broad category including timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermudagrass, and others. It generally contains lower protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals than legume hays but is high in fiber. Because of its lower nutrient density, supplementation is often necessary to meet all nutritional needs.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===

Blending legume and grass hays provides nutritional balance and often results in higher forage yields than monocultures. Ideal mixtures contain roughly one-third grass to two-thirds legume, with common pairings including orchardgrass/alfalfa and tall fescue/alfalfa. These mixes are palatable and healthy for all livestock types.

[[https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:\~](https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:~)\:text=Grass%20hay%20also%20comes%20from,is%20very%20high%20in%20fiber. Hay and Pasture Resources]

=== Bermuda Grass ===
*[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471) Cynodon dactylon Pers.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.8% DM
* Fiber: \~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~0.8% DM

== Hay Videos ==

* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?\_t=8VSUBshbIxG&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?_t=8VSUBshbIxG&_r=1) TikTok Video 1]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?\_t=8VSUCWs9s55&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?_t=8VSUCWs9s55&_r=1) TikTok Video 2]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?\_t=8VSUDNJgg15&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?_t=8VSUDNJgg15&_r=1) TikTok Video 3]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?\_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&_r=1) TikTok Video 4]
* [[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?\_t=8VSUKkABG1b&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?_t=8VSUKkABG1b&_r=1) TikTok Video 5]

== Quick Links to Hay Resources ==

* [[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Timothy]
* [[https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis](https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis) Understanding a Hay Analysis - Penn State Extension]
* [[https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf](https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf) Selecting Hay for Your Horse – Lori K. Warren, PhD, University of Florida]
* [[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/) Shape Variation in the Craniomandibular System and Prevalence of Dental Problems in Domestic Rabbits: A Case Study in Evolutionary Veterinary Science – Vet Sci. 2017 Mar; 4(1): 5]
* [[https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/](https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/) List of Hay Types Found in the US]
* [[https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages](https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages) Differences Between Grass and Legume Forages]
* [[https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/](https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/) All Hay Is Not Equal: Choose Your Livestock’s Carefully]

== Hay Quality and Storage Considerations ==
Hay quality varies drastically depending on forage species, harvesting maturity, drying, and storage conditions. Improper curing or storage increases risk of mold and nutrient loss. Compressed bales can harbor internal moisture and spoilage if not managed properly.

Pelleted feeds also risk contamination if stored in humid conditions but are generally easier to protect.

== Feeding Recommendations and Balancing ==
* Balanced fiber content (around 18–22% NDF) combined with adequate protein (16–20%) and fat (3–4%) supports health and growth.
* Particle size should be consistent, ideally between 0.5–1.5 mm, to promote gut motility and reduce digestive stress.
* Hay should complement, not replace, a nutritionally balanced diet.
* Excessive fiber without sufficient digestible nutrients reduces growth and energy availability.

== Summary ==
Hay remains a useful source of fiber in rabbit diets, but its role must be nuanced:

* Different hays vary widely in nutritional value and digestibility.
* Particle size and fiber composition impact digestive health and immune function.
* Excessive reliance on hay, especially poor-quality or high-lignin types, can reduce growth and cause dental strain.
* Balanced feeding of quality pellets is recommended for breeding and show rabbits.
* Proper storage and handling of hay are essential to maintain quality and safety.

== References ==
* Lebas, F., Gidenne, T., et al. (2000–2004). Recent advances in rabbit nutrition. COST 848.
* Gidenne, T. (1996). Fiber digestion in rabbits.
* Licois, D., & Gidenne, T. (1999). Fiber and disease resistance in rabbits.
* Bennegadi, H., et al. (2000). Health status and low fiber diets.
* Villamide, M. J., et al. (2009). Alfalfa hay in rabbit diets.
* Grandi, F., et al. (1988). Red clover hay in rabbit nutrition.
* Reed, T.E. (n.d.). Hay feeding recommendations.
* [PMC Article on fiber particle size and mortality](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7054611/)
* [Scialert article on fiber particle size and immune response](https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

Usage of Hay in the Rabbit Diet

2025-08-12T00:03:03Z

BCAdmin: /* Common Types of Hay and Their Nutritional Profiles */

= Nuances of Hay in the Rabbit Diet =

== Introduction ==
Hay is a widely recommended component in domestic rabbit diets, traditionally valued for its high fiber content and its role in maintaining dental and digestive health. However, the nutritional value, fiber type, particle size, and feeding strategy have a significant impact on rabbit wellbeing, growth, and longevity. This page explores the complexities and scientific findings behind hay usage in rabbit nutrition.

== Fiber: Role and Digestion in Rabbits ==

Fiber plays a critical role in preventing digestive disorders and supporting gut health in rabbits. Reviews by Gidenne (1996), Gidenne et al. (1998d), and De Blas et al. (1999) emphasize the importance of dietary fiber—particularly indigestible fiber—in maintaining digestive motility and preventing gut stasis.

Recent work by Licois and Gidenne (1999) demonstrated that fiber also helps resistance against pathogenic agents. Furthermore, the initial health status of rabbits influences their susceptibility to digestive issues from low-fiber diets, with healthier rabbits experiencing fewer disorders (Bennegadi et al., 2000).

However, excessive fiber intake (over 25% Acid Detergent Fiber [ADF]) dilutes dietary energy, forcing rabbits to increase intake to meet energy demands. At very high fiber levels, rabbits cannot compensate by eating more, leading to reduced growth rates (Lebas & Gidenne, 2000).

=== Fiber Particle Size and Its Effects ===

Fiber particle size has significant effects on digestion, immunity, and mortality:

* Heterogeneous particle size in feed increases lignin content, reducing digestibility and potentially promoting digestive stress.
* Studies on New Zealand White crossbred rabbits show that optimal Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) levels combined with medium particle sizes (0.5–1.5 mm) minimize mortality rates (down to 0%) and reduce *E. coli* infections.
* Larger particle sizes correlate with increased leukocyte, eosinophil, and neutrophil counts, indicating an immune response linked to diet.
* Imbalances in particle size and fiber content increase digestive stress and disease susceptibility.

(Source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

=== Misconceptions About “Long Fiber” and Hay ===

Rabbits require both short and long fiber particles for gut health, but the term "long fiber" is misleading. Pellet fiber length is already sufficient for cecal fermentation and motility (Al-Khalaifah, 2019).

Excessive fiber intake above >24% accelerates gut transit time, impairing nutrient absorption and increasing the risk of digestive disorders such as mucoid enteropathy (Moore, 2022).

Additionally, excess indigestible fiber combined with protein encourages harmful bacterial overgrowth and ammonia toxicity by disrupting digestive microflora balance (Moore, 2022).

Hay contains lignin, which reduces protein and energy digestibility, increases stomach retention time, and raises the risk of functional impactions.

The coarse, loose fiber in hay is abrasive and can cause jaw stress and dental damage in domestic rabbits (Böhmer et al., 2017).
\= Hay Feeding Recommendations and Balancing =

*"There is a vast difference in the nutritional value of hay, depending on the type of hay, the quality of forage prior to preparation, and the type and manner of the curing process of hay."*
— Dr. T.E. Reed, Rabbit Specialist

This section provides an overview of commonly fed rabbit hays. For a **full and detailed list** of forage types, please visit \[[https://www.feedipedia.org/](https://www.feedipedia.org/) Feedipedia], which offers advanced nutritional analyses including detailed breakdowns of hays, grasses, legumes, forage, and grains.

The following is a quick summary of several popular forages and their nutrient profiles:

\=== Timothy Hay ===
*\[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Phleum pratense L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~13.8% Dry Matter (DM) — This is the best-case scenario; typically, store-bought Timothy that has been sitting for months has protein levels between 3% and 9%.
* Fiber: \~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7% to 10.9% DM

**Notes for Rabbits:**
Timothy hay has traditionally been recommended to provide fiber alongside concentrate feeds, particularly in smallholder meat production systems (Cassady et al., 1966; Schlolaut et al., 1995), and more recently for pet rabbit maintenance (McNitt et al., 2013). Unlike alfalfa hay, Timothy hay alone cannot sustain adult rabbits’ maintenance needs (Richards et al., 1962; Uden et al., 1982). However, it can make up to 60-75% of a balanced diet without causing health problems (Keener et al., 1958; Uden et al., 1982).

Timothy hay is relatively low in nutritional value. Digestible energy content ranges between 5.8 to 6.2 MJ/kg. Protein digestibility is limited—62% for early-cut young timothy (crude protein 17% DM) and only 42-47% for mature hays (crude protein <6% DM) (Voris et al., 1940; Richards et al., 1962). Its lysine content is also low, covering only about 70% of growing rabbits’ lysine requirements.

The very low calcium content (averaging 0.33%) can be beneficial or detrimental depending on the rest of the diet’s mineral balance.

\=== Alfalfa Hay ===
*\[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275) Medicago sativa L.] \[Fabaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.3% DM
* Fiber: \~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~4.5% DM

Alfalfa hay is widely regarded as a highly important forage in rabbit diets (Villamide et al., 2009). It is very palatable (de Blas et al., 2010), with recommended inclusion levels varying from 20% up to 96%, though most recommendations fall between 30-40% (de Blas et al., 2010; Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa provides long, digestible fiber promoting good gut transit and balanced cecal flora (de Blas et al., 2010). It lowers cecal pH and enhances fermentation (Garcia et al., 2005). For optimal function, alfalfa hay should be coarsely ground to preserve its “ballast” role and encourage intestinal motility (Mateos et al., 1989).

Substituting alfalfa with highly lignified fiber sources negatively affects energy digestibility, fermentation, growth, and feed efficiency (Garcia et al., 1999, 2000; Motta et al., 1996; Parigi-Bini et al., 1980). Studies show that dropping large fiber (alfalfa) below 21% of diet causes decreased growth, milk production, and litter weights (Nicodemus et al., 2006).

Alfalfa cannot fully meet commercial rabbits’ energy needs due to physiological ingestion limits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998). It supplies about 25% of dietary protein but with low digestibility and methionine content, making it less ideal for high growth rates (Villamide et al., 2010).

In regions where alfalfa is unavailable, other protein sources like bambara groundnut can substitute (Aganga et al., 2005).

Alfalfa is high in calcium, beneficial during growth but should be limited or avoided in adults to prevent urinary problems (Lowe, 2010). It is also rich in B vitamins, carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin K (Mateos et al., 2010).

High alfalfa inclusion (88%-96%) has been shown to reduce mortality rates by over 10% in rabbits (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

\=== Red Clover Hay ===
Average composition:

* Protein: \~18.7% DM
* Fiber: \~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa meal up to 30% in balanced diets without affecting growth, digestibility, or mortality (Grandi et al., 1988).

\[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246) Red Clover Hay – Feedipedia]

\=== Oat Forage ===
*\[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500) Avena sativa L.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.1% DM
* Fiber: \~34.0% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~17.7% DM

\=== Grass Hay ===

Grass hay is a broad category including timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermudagrass, and others. It generally contains lower protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals than legume hays but is high in fiber. Because of its lower nutrient density, supplementation is often necessary to meet all nutritional needs.

\=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===

Blending legume and grass hays provides nutritional balance and often results in higher forage yields than monocultures. Ideal mixtures contain roughly one-third grass to two-thirds legume, with common pairings including orchardgrass/alfalfa and tall fescue/alfalfa. These mixes are palatable and healthy for all livestock types.

\[[https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:\~](https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:~)\:text=Grass%20hay%20also%20comes%20from,is%20very%20high%20in%20fiber. Hay and Pasture Resources]

\=== Bermuda Grass ===
*\[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471) Cynodon dactylon Pers.] \[Poaceae]*

Average composition:

* Protein: \~9.8% DM
* Fiber: \~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: \~0.8% DM

\== Hay Videos ==

* \[[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?\_t=8VSUBshbIxG&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?_t=8VSUBshbIxG&_r=1) TikTok Video 1]
* \[[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?\_t=8VSUCWs9s55&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?_t=8VSUCWs9s55&_r=1) TikTok Video 2]
* \[[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?\_t=8VSUDNJgg15&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?_t=8VSUDNJgg15&_r=1) TikTok Video 3]
* \[[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?\_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&_r=1) TikTok Video 4]
* \[[https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?\_t=8VSUKkABG1b&\_r=1](https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?_t=8VSUKkABG1b&_r=1) TikTok Video 5]

\== Quick Links to Hay Resources ==

* \[[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886](https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886) Timothy]
* \[[https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis](https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis) Understanding a Hay Analysis - Penn State Extension]
* \[[https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf](https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf) Selecting Hay for Your Horse – Lori K. Warren, PhD, University of Florida]
* \[[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/) Shape Variation in the Craniomandibular System and Prevalence of Dental Problems in Domestic Rabbits: A Case Study in Evolutionary Veterinary Science – Vet Sci. 2017 Mar; 4(1): 5]
* \[[https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/](https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/) List of Hay Types Found in the US]
* \[[https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages](https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages) Differences Between Grass and Legume Forages]
* \[[https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/](https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/) All Hay Is Not Equal: Choose Your Livestock’s Carefully]

== Hay Quality and Storage Considerations ==
Hay quality varies drastically depending on forage species, harvesting maturity, drying, and storage conditions. Improper curing or storage increases risk of mold and nutrient loss. Compressed bales can harbor internal moisture and spoilage if not managed properly.

Pelleted feeds also risk contamination if stored in humid conditions but are generally easier to protect.

== Feeding Recommendations and Balancing ==
* Balanced fiber content (around 18–22% NDF) combined with adequate protein (16–20%) and fat (3–4%) supports health and growth.
* Particle size should be consistent, ideally between 0.5–1.5 mm, to promote gut motility and reduce digestive stress.
* Hay should complement, not replace, a nutritionally balanced diet.
* Excessive fiber without sufficient digestible nutrients reduces growth and energy availability.

== Summary ==
Hay remains a useful source of fiber in rabbit diets, but its role must be nuanced:

* Different hays vary widely in nutritional value and digestibility.
* Particle size and fiber composition impact digestive health and immune function.
* Excessive reliance on hay, especially poor-quality or high-lignin types, can reduce growth and cause dental strain.
* Balanced feeding of quality pellets is recommended for breeding and show rabbits.
* Proper storage and handling of hay are essential to maintain quality and safety.

== References ==
* Lebas, F., Gidenne, T., et al. (2000–2004). Recent advances in rabbit nutrition. COST 848.
* Gidenne, T. (1996). Fiber digestion in rabbits.
* Licois, D., & Gidenne, T. (1999). Fiber and disease resistance in rabbits.
* Bennegadi, H., et al. (2000). Health status and low fiber diets.
* Villamide, M. J., et al. (2009). Alfalfa hay in rabbit diets.
* Grandi, F., et al. (1988). Red clover hay in rabbit nutrition.
* Reed, T.E. (n.d.). Hay feeding recommendations.
* [PMC Article on fiber particle size and mortality](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7054611/)
* [Scialert article on fiber particle size and immune response](https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108)

Rabbit Feeding Guide

2025-08-12T00:02:20Z

BCAdmin: /* Hay Feeding recommendations and balancing : */

= Introduction =

If you search online, you’ll repeatedly find the claim that rabbits should have diets consisting of 80% hay or even an all-hay diet. This recommendation largely originates from the House Rabbit Society (HRS), an extreme animal rights organization that has promoted this 80% hay diet and associated messaging for decades. Oxbow Animal Health, a major supplier of rabbit food, partners with HRS and provides funding, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

For over 20 years, the House Rabbit Society has engaged with soon-to-be exotic animal veterinarians (DVMs), offering support to help them start their practices focused on rabbits. This relationship has resulted in many veterinarians adopting HRS-influenced care practices, which include the widely promoted 80% hay diet. Consequently, this diet recommendation has become entrenched despite significant flaws.

If you review rabbit care guidelines from major universities such as Purdue, UC Davis, Colorado State University, and Washington State University, you’ll notice HRS’s influence in their citations and fine print. This is reflected in feeding recommendations on Oxbow product packaging, which dominate the pet rabbit market. The resulting proliferation of this diet advice has perpetuated misinformation.

An important historical note: in the 1990s, the House Rabbit Society conflated care advice for rabbits and cavies (guinea pigs), even suggesting they could share diets and housing. When it became clear that cavies and rabbits can transmit diseases to each other , HRS retracted the cohabitation advice—but never revisited or corrected their dietary stance for rabbits.

Further scrutiny reveals that much of the 80% hay diet recommendation traces back to a single book co-authored by Susan Brown and Jeff Jenkins titled *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets* (1993). This book, difficult to obtain today, was frequently cited by HRS and related groups as a definitive source for the hay-first diet. However, more recent research by F. Lebas and others has discredited the outdated nutritional guidance in this book. The diet promoted therein fails to meet the minimum nutritional requirements for maintaining healthy rabbits.

Therefore, the House Rabbit Society is not a reliable source for rabbit care information. Their recommendations are often outdated or inaccurate and don’t always reflect current research. For trustworthy guidance, consult the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), the World Rabbit Congress, or reputable breeders ' organizations with access to the latest research and expertise.

One fundamental reason rabbits and cavies require different diets is their distinct gut microbiota, despite some anatomical similarities. A 2017 study by Crowley et al. using next-generation sequencing highlighted significant differences in the microbial populations between rabbits and guinea pigs, confirming that their digestive mechanisms differ substantially.

Furthermore, ARBA care guides, developed by a panel of veterinarians, recommend diets where pellets form the majority component, not hay. Supporting this, research comparing wild and domestic rabbits’ dental and digestive health found that hay is nutritionally poor and difficult to chew, often leading to malocclusion and periodontal disease caused by hay getting trapped between teeth. Wild rabbits are selective feeders, preferring high-nutrition fresh forage and resorting to dried grasses or hay only during starvation or severe winter conditions to survive.

== References ==
* Crowley EJ, King JM, Wilkinson T, Worgan HJ, Huson KM, Rose MT, McEwan NR. (2017). Comparison of the microbial population in rabbits and guinea pigs by next-generation sequencing. PLoS ONE 12(2): e0165779. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0165779
* Jenkins J., Brown S. (1993). *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets*. [Publisher info if available]
* [Link to ARBA Care Guides]
* [Link to World Rabbit Congress resources]

= Pellet Feeding Recommendations =

[[File:RabbitFeeding-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Rabbits do best on a Complete Balanced Alfalfa Based Pellet. 16% protein, 15-20% Fiber.]]

The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recommends feeding a completely balanced pellet as the primary and main source of nutrition for domestic rabbits. When selecting a suitable pellet, it is important to use a baseline of approximately:

* 16% crude protein
* 18% crude fiber
* A grass or legume-based ingredient as the first listed component on the label

These specifications help ensure that your rabbits receive sufficient nutrients for maintenance, growth, and reproductive performance.

Most feeding guidelines recommend providing pellets twice daily, with the total daily amount equaling approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of the rabbit’s ideal adult body weight. Rabbits are crepuscular by nature—most active during dawn and dusk—with periods of rest and digestion during the day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would be fed roughly 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and another 5 ounces in the evening.

It is recommended that a completely balanced pellet constitute between 80% and 100% of a rabbit’s overall diet. This approach helps to ensure that the rabbit’s nutritional requirements are met in a consistent and controlled manner.

Fresh vegetables and greens should be limited to no more than one or two tablespoons total per day. These fresh plants are best used in small quantities for their supplemental or medicinal properties rather than as a primary nutrient source. Feeding excessive fresh fruits or vegetables can disrupt the delicate balance of the rabbit’s hindgut flora and motility, which may result in bacterial overgrowth, gastrointestinal stasis, and potentially fatal bloat.

== Why is Oxbow not recommended? ==

Oxbow is one of the most widely marketed rabbit pellet brands and is often promoted by the House Rabbit Society. However, Oxbow’s formulation tends to have lower protein levels and higher fiber content than what is considered optimal for rabbit health. While rabbits fed Oxbow pellets may survive, their long-term health and condition often suffer.

To put this in perspective, a rabbit’s diet must provide a minimum of 14% digestible protein energy (DE) to maintain condition and support normal metabolic functions. This generally translates to a feed containing about 16% crude protein on a dry matter (DM) basis. A pellet containing only 14% crude protein DM provides closer to 12% DE protein, which is barely enough to sustain life, let alone promote growth or healthy fur and muscle maintenance.

Rabbits consuming diets low in digestible protein often develop a flabby, wasted body condition and exhibit constant shedding or poor coat quality. In addition, fiber levels in the diet should not exceed approximately 22% to prevent the dilution of essential nutrients. If the protein content decreases, the fiber content should decrease proportionally. For example, an Oxbow formula with 14% crude protein and 25% fiber will have a further reduced bioavailability of essential nutrients, with only about 9% DE protein effectively available to the animal, leading to malnutrition and poor health outcomes.

For these reasons, feeds such as ADM Pen Pals 16%, which contains no whole or ground corn and is balanced for all life stages, are preferred. Other recommended brands or formulations include:

* Small World 16% by Manna Pro
* Kambalch 16%
* Rowe 16%
* Hienold Commercial or Wool Formula
* Pen Pals 16%

These recommended pellets are typically alfalfa-based and contain a minimum of 16% crude protein DM with fiber content ranging between 15% and 22%. It is also advisable to avoid feeds containing whole corn kernels, which provide poor-quality nutrition. However, corn distillers, which contain the protein-rich germ without the hull or starch, are acceptable as an ingredient.

== Nuanced Feeding Recommendations ==

=== Feeding Nursing and Pregnant Does ===

Nursing and pregnancy have significantly increased protein and energy requirements to support fetal growth and subsequent milk production. For the first two weeks of pregnancy, it is generally recommended to maintain the doe on a standard maintenance diet containing about 16% protein.

Starting in the third week of pregnancy, the diet should be gradually transitioned to a higher protein ratio, around 18%, to meet the increased nutritional demands. Once the doe has given birth and is nursing kits, she should be allowed free access to a high-quality 18% protein pellet to support continued milk production and recovery.

Several safe and effective feed additives can be included in the diet of nursing does to enhance milk yield. These include:

* Steam-rolled or traditional old-fashioned oats
* Calf manna
* Black oil sunflower seeds

These supplements should be offered in small quantities—generally half to one teaspoon per feeding—in a separate bowl to avoid contamination or waste of pellets.

Bananas (fruit only, no peel) can be offered to pregnant does in limited amounts to provide a natural source of potassium and sugars, which are beneficial during the late stages of fetal development. For nursing does, small amounts of banana peel can also be given, but care must be taken as the peel contains compounds that may induce uterine contractions. Therefore, banana peel should never be given to does before or during pregnancy but can be safely provided immediately after birth.

Additionally, Tums (either plain or fruit-flavored) can serve as a calcium supplement to nursing does. One or two Tums daily for the first few days postpartum can help boost calcium availability for milk production, with occasional supplementation continuing through the nursing period.

*Foods to avoid during pregnancy and nursing:*
** Plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae) should be avoided as they may dry up milk production. They can be given to does only after litter loss or post-weaning when drying up the doe.
** Banana peel must be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential to induce contractions, but it is safe after kindling.

=== Feeding Weanling Rabbits (8 to 20 weeks) ===

Weanlings are in a rapid growth phase and require a diet higher in protein to support development. They should be fed a complete pellet containing between 17% and 20% protein and given free access to ensure adequate intake.

=== Feeding Adult Non-Producing Rabbits ===

Adult rabbits not involved in breeding, gestation, or lactation have more moderate nutritional requirements. Protein levels between 15% and 17% are generally sufficient, provided the pellet contains a minimum of 15% fiber.

Pellets for non-producing adults can be based on timothy or alfalfa hay. Avoid pellets with a grain-based ingredient list, as these are less suitable for optimal rabbit health.

Daily intake guidelines remain at approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of ideal body weight, divided into two feedings per day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would receive approximately 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and 5 ounces in the evening.

=== Conditioning Show Rabbits ===

[[File:FINISHING MIX-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Diet can be amended for different life stages and for special conditioning]]

Show rabbits often require specialized dietary adjustments depending on the life stage or conditioning goals. Some common dietary supplements used to optimize coat quality, muscle tone, and digestive health include:

* **Coat Finishers:** Supplements rich in vitamin E and fat are often used to improve coat luster and texture. Black oil sunflower seeds (BOS) are a popular natural source of these nutrients.
* **Muscle and Flesh Conditioners:** Protein boosters such as whey powder, rolled oats, and barley may be added to the diet to promote muscle development and firmness of flesh, particularly before shows.
* **Digestive Aids:** Enzymatic supplements like papaya enzyme powder assist in nutrient absorption and can help break down ingested wool or fur during shedding seasons.
* **Fiber Supplements:** Small amounts of grass hays and beet pulp shreds can be offered to support gut motility and health. However, be mindful that beet pulp can be high in sugars, so quantities should be kept small. Shredded plain pumpkin is also used as a mild fiber supplement and digestive aid.

= Other Feed Additives =

== Proteins ==
Rabbits require adequate protein for maintenance, growth, and reproduction. While maintenance feeds with 12%-15% protein can sustain non-producing rabbits, a balanced ration containing around 16% protein produces better overall health and condition. Providing a single feed with sufficient protein for all life stages is often easier for management.

* Corn Distillers: Do not confuse whole or cracked corn with corn distillers, which are the protein-rich remnants after fermentation removes sugars. Sugars promote harmful bacterial overgrowth leading to bloat and GI stasis, so avoiding whole corn kernels is critical.

* Soybean: Studies show soybean is a superior protein source compared to cowpea or pigeon pea for growing rabbits. Cowpea varieties with high tannin content may harm kidneys and are not recommended as sole protein sources.

== Fat ==
Fats provide concentrated energy and are important for coat and skin health. Common fat sources include oils and black oil sunflower seeds, which also supply essential fatty acids and vitamin E.

== Carbohydrates ==
Carbohydrates provide energy, but care must be taken to avoid simple sugars that disrupt gut flora.

* Corn: Whole or cracked corn kernels should never be fed to rabbits. However, certain corn by-products (like corn distillers) are acceptable when used correctly.

* Oats and Beet Pulp Shreds: These are common carbohydrate sources that also provide some fiber.

== Fiber ==
Fiber is crucial for maintaining healthy digestive motility and preventing gut disorders. The quality and particle size of fiber directly influence gut health and immune function.

* Excessively high fiber (>25% Acid Detergent Fiber) dilutes dietary energy and reduces growth rates because rabbits cannot consume enough feed to compensate.

* Studies indicate that fiber particle size affects mortality, immunity, and gut bacteria populations in rabbits, with heterogeneous particle sizes increasing lignin content and digestive stress.

Common fiber sources include timothy hay and beet pulp shreds, which help maintain optimal gut function.

== Enzymes ==
Enzymatic supplements can aid digestion, especially during periods of stress or dietary transition. These include papaya enzyme and other proteolytic enzymes.

== Supplements ==
Additional supplements may be used to address specific nutritional needs or to support reproductive performance, coat condition, or digestive health. These are best used judiciously and tailored to the animal's life stage and condition.

== Notes and References ==
* See detailed reviews on fiber digestion and its effects on rabbit health (Gidenne 1996, De Blas 1999, Licois & Gidenne 1999, Bennegadi et al. 2000).
* Particle size and fiber content significantly affect mortality, immune response, and gut bacterial populations (source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108).
* Avoid feeding whole or cracked corn kernels; use corn distillers cautiously.

== Common Types of Hay and Their Nutritional Profiles ==

=== Timothy Hay (Phleum pratense L.) ===
* Protein: ~3–13.8% DM (varies with storage and age)
* Fiber: ~31.8% DM
* Carbohydrates: 4.7–10.9% DM

Timothy hay is popular for fiber supplementation but cannot support adult rabbits alone due to low protein and energy digestibility. Its lysine content is low, meeting only about 70% of growing rabbits' needs. Calcium content is low (~0.33%), which can be either advantageous or limiting depending on the overall diet.

=== Alfalfa Hay (Medicago sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~18.3% DM
* Fiber: ~28.6% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~4.5% DM

Alfalfa is highly palatable and widely used as a fiber and protein source. It promotes digestive motility and caecal flora balance. Inclusion recommendations vary but typically fall between 20–40%. High inclusion levels (>80%) have shown mortality reduction in some studies but may risk calcium overload in adults. Protein digestibility is moderate, limiting support for very rapid growth.

=== Red Clover Hay ===
* Protein: ~18.7% DM
* Fiber: ~27.4% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~13% DM

Red clover hay can safely replace alfalfa up to 30% without adverse effects on growth or mortality.

=== Oat Forage (Avena sativa L.) ===
* Protein: ~9.1% DM
* Fiber: ~34% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~17.7% DM

=== Grass Hay ===
Includes timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, bermuda grass.

* Typically high fiber, low protein, vitamins, and minerals compared to legumes.
* Nutritional content varies widely by species and harvest conditions.

=== Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===
* Combines benefits of legumes (protein, minerals) and grasses (fiber).
* Balanced mixes (e.g., 1/3 grass to 2/3 legume) optimize nutrition and yield.

=== Bermuda Grass (Cynodon dactylon Pers.) ===
* Protein: ~9.8% DM
* Fiber: ~31.3% DM
* Carbohydrates: ~0.8% DM

=Rabbit Snacks and Treats =

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Recipes_to_Make_Treats_For_Rabbits Recipe page:]

=Debunked Studies whose info is still used as "evidence" for House Rabbit society Propaganda:=

[https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2041027&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ Preference of rabbits for drinking from open dishes versus nipple drinkers ]
Tschudin, A; Clauss, M; Codron, D; Hatt, J-M.The Veterinary Record; London Vol. 168, Iss. 7, (Feb 19, 2011): 190.

This study was widely discredited, and removed from ResearchGate, and PubMed , becuse the sample size was 12 dwarf rabbits total. Not large enough sample to gather any conclusive evidence.

Also questionable Sources on the House Rabbit society care pages House Rabbit Society cites three sources for their information at the bottom of their care page, they cite zero studies, and zero research, you are expected to take what they post as gospel with no reviewable sources to back it up. it is there for not academic but a op-ed opinion piece. :

*Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
*Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health
*Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison ( 2002-2010 National Board of Directors, House Rabbit Society (Richmond CA) 
https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan_Smith_CV.pdf

Dr. Susan Smith has been invited to speak at numerous HRS conventions. She has also written several opinion articles for laypeople. However, Dr. Smith has not published any research studies involving rabbits, peer-reviewed papers on rabbits, or sponsored rabbit-related research. In fact, all of her rabbit-related activities are solely in her capacity as a member of the House Rabbit Society board. The society appears to be using Dr. Smith's doctorate to lend authority to its opinions, but not to support those opinions with any empirical evidence. This raises the question of whether the HRS is truly an independent organization or whether it is a front for activist interests.

Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health , VP of Technical Services and Research, Oxbow Animal Health 
He was part of the study that tested , The Effect of Feed Form on Diet Digestibility and Cecal Parameters in Rabbits
December 2017Animals 7(12):95 DOI:10.3390/ani7120095 [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593_The_Effect_of_Feed_Form_on_Diet_Digestibility_and_Cecal_Parameters_in_Rabbits] . This study had a total sample size of 15 new Zealand Rabbits. Broken into three groups of five Rabbits. "Rabbits were placed in individual cages with ad libitum access to water and food for 45 days acclimation followed by 30 days experimental period."

"Simple Summary: In addition to hay or forage in the diet pet rabbits are commonly fed a supplementary food as a muesli (granular mix), pellets, or extruded croquettes. This study aimed to determine if form of this supplementary
diet (pelleted vs. extruded) or composition (muesli) had an effect on the diets total tract digestibility and cecal fermentation patterns. Rabbits had slightly higher intake when fed extruded and pelleted diets compared to muesli.
Digestibility results were inconsistent between estimation methods. The extruded diet was more digestible than pelleted according to the total collection digestibility method, but according to internal marker acid insoluble ash
 The pelleted diet was the most digestible. Both the extruded and pelleted diet had similar fermentation patterns, with lower cecal pH and greater proportions of butyrate. Our findings suggest that diet composition, rather
than form, may have a greater impact on nutrient utilization by rabbits "

The pellet used was also only 14% protein. and the sample size was tiny.

Gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology of select exotic companion mammals https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24767739/ [https://books.google.com/books?id=M8WLAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA165&lpg=PA165&dq=Gastrointestinal%20Anatomy%20and%20Physiology%20of%20Select%20Exotic%20Companion%20Mammals&source=bl&ots=tlLl8zcfAn&sig=ACfU3U2IPejsgPTujD2FsbzQydT4JajJTQ&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjiyr_CxKH2AhWxlIkEHYINBmkQ6AF6BAgdEAI&fbclid=IwAR1IGYOezqmKbJ6vTjq52Ud8SlbBbALeUTN5UY_-xQeuV4OeoLuG1yRird8#v=onepage&q=Gastrointestinal%20Anatomy%20and%20Physiology%20of%20Select%20Exotic%20Companion%20Mammals&f=false good breakdown of the mechanic of digestion but has no info regarding actual nutrient requirements ]
by M Kohles · 2014

note: study on this topic is represented above that shows the gut bacteria and digestion is different between Rabbit and Cavy.

Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

Gastrointestinal disease in ferrets and rabbits (Proceedings)
August 1, 2011 Peter G. Fisher, DVM
https://www.dvm360.com/view/gastrointestinal-disease-ferrets-and-rabbits-proceedings
it covers diseases of gastrointestinal tract, and what parasites and infection commonly cause bloat, and not diet.

and the 2 other linked opinion pieces read as a oxbow marketing advertisement. even naming oxbow by name.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/rabbit-medicine-overview-proceedings
Notice how the nutrition section has ZERO links back to ANY supporting research articles yet all other sections have multiple sources cites to support the text.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/thinking-adding-exotic-mammals-your-case-load-equipment-needs-proceedings
This opinion piece reads like commercial for oxbow.

I have reviewed the sources cited in the House Rabbit Society Article on nutrition. Unfortunately, two of the veterinarians they cite, Dr. Peter G. Fisher and Dr. Micah Kohles, do not appear to have any studies or research that support the claims in the Feeding article. Their only support comes from opinion articles that lack supporting research. In fact, the actual studies I have found by these veterinarians provide a more compelling argument for feeding a complete and balanced pellet over "salads" that are low in fiber and high in fermentable carbs, which according to one of their studies, can cause appendix damage. Dr. Susan Smith has no rabbit research in her portfolio, and her only connection to rabbits is that she served on the House Rabbit Society board and repeated the talking points she was given to enhance the House Rabbit Society's credibility. I find it very disappointing that the House Rabbit Society would promote such a misleading article, and I would not recommend it as a reliable source of information on rabbit nutrition.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834_NUTRITIVE_VALUE_OF_SAWDUST

Pine Sawdust:
CP content varied from 1.8 to 3.5 g/100g,
CF content varied from 39.5 to 74.0 g/100g

Timothy Hay
CP content 3% g/100g
CF content 28% g/100g

==Feed Related Studies==

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Researchlinks#REFLECTIONS_ON_RABBIT_NUTRITION_WITH_A_SPECIAL_EMPHASIS_ON_FEED_INGREDIENTS_UTILIZATION Research Links ]

[https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding Rabbit Tracks: Feeds and Feeding April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension] 
Received: 23 May 2021 / Revised: 12 July 2021 / Accepted: 12 July 2021 / Published: 14 July 2021

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health] 
August 2013

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Effects of Rocket Seed Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, and Their Mixture on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Digestibility, Redox Status, and Meat Fatty Acid Profile of Growing Rabbits] 
April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION RECENT RESEARCH ADVANCES IN RABBIT NUTRITION] 
December 2000

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization Reflections on rabbit nutrition with a special emphasis on feed ingredients utilization] 
January 2004

Feed related

Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition
[https://www.academia.edu/8592261/Nutrition_of_the_Rabbit_Second_Edition?email_work_card=title Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition]
Mohammad Rifky

rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding

Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health==
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health

https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION

https://www.vetfolio.com/learn/article/nutrition-know-how-pet-rabbit-nutrition

General Feed Supplements

EFFECT OF DIETARY SELENIUM ENRICHED MICRO-ALGAE SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANTI- OXIDATIVE STATUS OF RABBITS UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IN SUMMER SEASON" by mohamed basyony===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/QllhK1c5L1FDbkFwNEdTNkY4UDI3QnpOTGlCSTRtQ0lNd1V5QTBKVWk2RT0tLXVVQjVtOEVNUm9ZQkIzOEZmY3orSWc9PQ==--c79ce43255800522b842d0c8be4f1a102ba46aaf/t/sPPdN-Qp4b4Q1-bhRvi1/resource/work/21619748/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_SELENIUM_ENRICHED_MICRO_ALGAE_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_AND_ANTI_OXIDATIVE_STATUS_OF_RABBITS_UNDER_HIGH_AMBIENT_TEMPERATURE_IN_SUMMER_SEASON?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Rk9LdEk3cUt6aDQwdEUvK0dPaHhvUkRVRk5iUzdlV05WelVvS3prZkJGdz0tLWZZRFZWUGN3N2ZNTTBFOU4zRElqQ0E9PQ==--bd7de4edfce98920e93a0b1c5d01a3591f51cc78/t/sPPdN-Qdcm7Pe-p67QM/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Effect of Zinc Supplementation on some Physiological and Growth Traits in Local Male Rabbit" by World's Veterinary Journal Editor===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UzR2b3BhSVl6QjFMeTk5bjR1dXQxYTNhZXBwQUh2UncxdFNBUVVjZkRoMD0tLTIrY1NFWVBnU05mWnNwZlFPUTlrM3c9PQ==--7ad74ccf2d833f46a06ba9dcf8a6f6d63038c707/t/sPPdN-QfnHV4z-kQ1wm/resource/work/32956665/Effect_of_Zinc_Supplementation_on_some_Physiological_and_Growth_Traits_in_Local_Male_Rabbit?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 1. Response of Growing Rabbits to DietsHamed A.A. Omer, AbdEl-Maged A. Abedo, Sawsan M. Ahmed, Azza M.M. Badrand Mervat S.M. HasaninLife Science..." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEd0VnRmek51ZDdkNlJBSVhaUlBmV1F1ekFPRUdKTUR3RjczdnVCVSs3MD0tLW1WVGgvc3M2aTdFUURKV2MwOXAwQ3c9PQ==--8aaaec6b132b8e0db8dc46fab39fe4e45b811b1b/t/sPPdN-Qgz1jJD-HxeW0/resource/work/8539516/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_1_Response_of_Growing_Rabbits_to_DietsHamed_A_A_Omer_AbdEl_Maged_A_Abedo_Sawsan_M_Ahmed_Azza_M_M_Badrand_Mervat_S_M_HasaninLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_4_?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 2. Influence of Flaxseeds Levels Supplementations on Blood Constituents, Carcass Characteristics and Fatty Acids Profile." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UThubG0wTEgrc1BKeEFnT3pycEF1OUxwVHZ6S1RGcVd1SkErVThPQnZqMD0tLXV5ZW5LVitIT0NhdDYvZnFuVWJlRlE9PQ==--4d0a1cc52d355dfd197363aa7fa6dc86b45cdf4a/t/sPPdN-QgG9ADH-bbjVAv/resource/work/12250987/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_2_Influence_of_Flaxseeds_Levels_Supplementations_on_Blood_Constituents_Carcass_Characteristics_and_Fatty_Acids_Profile?email_work_card=title

Agronomy: "Growth Performance and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients of Weaned Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Forms of Cocoa Pod Husk Meal" by Asian Online Journal Publishing Group===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L3IzQTZDNUVZWUF2NEwvZDV1Wkp0ZU52TU1meHJIY1dXYkt3UXU4T3E5UT0tLUl3SW9lQ0RZU3NhMjAwNjhIWWY3Y3c9PQ==--a3f206fa63664368e8bfde6eebd8f9470a3bdb2a/t/sPPdN-QpF3kHw-bqigTi/resource/work/35848207/Growth_Performance_and_Apparent_Nutrient_Digestibility_Coefficients_of_Weaned_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Forms_of_Cocoa_Pod_Husk_Meal?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF CHAMOMILE FLOWERS AS FEED ADDITIVE ON SOME BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS FOR GROWING RABBITS" by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YjZsSmVsM3AxM2F4enBmNkU5KzRuTVo2cFJKdUlDY3hVMGJSMDVRS2pwND0tLVN1V3FvTHc5MnI0NXFVbjBuQ1hnYUE9PQ==--3b3eadef9f6ebfe96bfa15eea7a3dfae8e494a31/t/sPPdN-Qpjmi1D-bdz6oo/resource/work/9329672/EFFECT_OF_CHAMOMILE_FLOWERS_AS_FEED_ADDITIVE_ON_SOME_BIOLOGICAL_PARAMETERS_FOR_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

The Nutritive Value of Zornia glochidiata as a Non-conventional Feedstuff in Rabbit in Sokoto, Nigeria" by Ndudim Ogo===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aUFMWjBISEJNMHVKZ080NjR5TGErcXpJRzJMelp0U0JtamU4Y2lvRFpJUT0tLVA2dEFmL0hEcGg0SFV2TG1teVlFaWc9PQ==--622e2baee790f8efb1144e9240ed1ada4b3fe5c8/t/sPPdN-QnogdXn-bc1HPX/resource/work/18711695/The_Nutritive_Value_of_Zornia_glochidiata_as_a_Non_conventional_Feedstuff_in_Rabbit_in_Sokoto_Nigeria?email_work_card=title

Performance of rabbits fed diets with varying concentrate and fodder ratio in north eastern region of Tripura" by Asit Chakrabarti===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MGIycnE2am5lK09CbkEzWnluM1JtaFFjNlk0UVUxSGpQTXNWTE1hS2VYZz0tLWsrdFc5bElVOHcyYmVzWkhrQmRSMVE9PQ==--5b5a30c634eeea396188f5f96e29e2476dd5cdd6/t/sPPdN-QmEt7ei-AvMTB/resource/work/39725417/Performance_of_rabbits_fed_diets_with_varying_concentrate_and_fodder_ratio_in_north_eastern_region_of_Tripura?email_work_card=title

Various Legume as feed and feed supplements

Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits" by Donald Chisowa===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SWR6b1dLWFNBb3pxbFh3VXNCUmxjWnFuV0hac1JuMnhjVERWUzh3djYwOD0tLTdwcXJ2VmJ1UTFTa0p5TzBCUFdlb1E9PQ==--e17ca3b4f9f183f27b84e94a67e75efe6ebf36f4/t/sPPdN-QoQRVXM-WNtJE/resource/work/11351185/Evaluation_of_soybean_Glycine_max_cowpea_Vigna_unguiculata_and_pigeon_pea_Cajanus_cajan_as_sole_sources_of_proteins_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Hamed A.A Omerand Azza M.M. Badr.Growth Performance of New Zealand White Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Pea StrawLife Science Journal 2013;10(2)" by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/U2pZNE5LYmdLY2NleXppeDhCb2owd2YxZ0FDNWJub2IzNmNsM0ZCNlpIQT0tLU51UHBhN3JGQ0ZmOWJYclJTdWRKNkE9PQ==--429eb979b597c8159c3230f2bb5e087f0b6765ca/t/sPPdN-QcSQb5L-bxcsdM/resource/work/8539260/Hamed_A_A_Omerand_Azza_M_M_Badr_Growth_Performance_of_New_Zealand_White_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Levels_of_Pea_StrawLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_2_?email_work_card=title

Effect of Chemical Composition of Alfalfa Hay on Several . Digestive Measurements in Growing Rabbits" by Rosa Carabaño===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/VldVYTkrN3FQVmVjZzBlT0tPSXFNN3lJWks5a0JDbSs2Nm0vWk5yNTAvZz0tLThQaE85MTc3Vlo2YmdwVSsrTFpJdWc9PQ==--90cc8df7accb7e7757b217e27490b7698e7cf5a0/t/sPPdN-Qa9cnMB-B2d8N/resource/work/24812249/Effect_of_Chemical_Composition_of_Alfalfa_Hay_on_Several_Digestive_Measurements_in_Growing_Rabbits?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF FEEDING OLIVE CAKE SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT BENTONITE ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aGhEa0Y3MXpTUm9QK0g4NS8rbGVZTmwyL3Q2Wmd1bFh0VzhhYTFkR1lGTT0tLWdvNlFRT0hhcEowVy9ESGpQTFplTHc9PQ==--e954ae63b78666fe8b6026136d1caa841a3244e7/t/sPPdN-QaECJQk-baz1zi/resource/work/36496594/EFFECT_OF_FEEDING_OLIVE_CAKE_SUPPLEMENTED_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_BENTONITE_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BLOOD COMPONENTS AND SLAUGHTER TRAITS OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE MALE GROWING RABBITS AS AFFECTED BY DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH CALCIUM, SODIUM OR POTASSIUM, IN SUB-TROPICAL EGYPT" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat== https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SU9MMGRUSEhLWGlNT20zaXdkTXEyUjJYYWlFaDI2RHRqNnZtYXF1Z1d6WT0tLUphSHIxRlRRbUZQQituR25Gc0dkK2c9PQ==--841cf9236890a2487e4a977273720546ef9a32dc/t/sPPdN-QaqqFUB-nAEXb/resource/work/12692254/GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_BLOOD_COMPONENTS_AND_SLAUGHTER_TRAITS_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_MALE_GROWING_RABBITS_AS_AFFECTED_BY_DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTATION_WITH_CALCIUM_SODIUM_OR_POTASSIUM_IN_SUB_TROPICAL_EGYPT?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/NHFKYlphcXg4VWNzZGVkSDVmVVFXYXlqOCtHSEVrd3RLN0NQN2xDZFZwYz0tLVVFcFpIZE9zV3pEWWRkU1Z5N09JcUE9PQ==--b6e433ce56d2392549ee5b405d73fa8c16e303ff/t/sPPdN-QaifWu2-bfmPBZ/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Influence of dietary benzoic acid addition on nutrient digestibility and selected biochemical parameters in fattening rabbits" by K. Fegeros==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/b2lheWJTUWNnUEVBTG5Ddm1YamhzSDQySGNZd0k1TVV1aE1ldmFVR1RGVT0tLUNLSk5MYmlvYW1kN29STUUzSCtPelE9PQ==--917462902d2600191af2d70536465a40bd316be4/t/sPPdN-QepHj7D-VtVZd/resource/work/30474431/Influence_of_dietary_benzoic_acid_addition_on_nutrient_digestibility_and_selected_biochemical_parameters_in_fattening_rabbits?email_work_card=title

COMMERCIAL ENZYMES

EFFECT OF USING COMMERCIAL ENZYMES TO IMPROVE DIETS CONTAINED PEANUT HAY ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by Fathy Atta===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OUJlVHFVTHozWlFQYW9idGdPUmJSUHJFZElZdGRXR3Fpc04rZU41N1IrZz0tLXlWY2FhdldaTll1Y1AwbEpxczAxbXc9PQ==--e16599d129e829b7da7a4ca4d6c379ce72e7532b/t/sPPdN-QeUbKK9-bxtmgk/resource/work/7230460/EFFECT_OF_USING_COMMERCIAL_ENZYMES_TO_IMPROVE_DIETS_CONTAINED_PEANUT_HAY_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

RESPONSE OF GROWING RABBITS TO DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF WHEAT SCREENING BY-PRODUCT WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION " by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bGpGeEkrdzZ3NE5PU2hKYUNZdmRQN1JMYjdqMU51RGc0clRmTStHTVhwbz0tLTF5bnhHY0V1TUxLNnZrR1N1WmdmVVE9PQ==--e42c63ee99bdc464d47fa63c8decab24ae97b4fb/t/sPPdN-Qc5erQc-bhct0a/resource/work/5108323/RESPONSE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_TO_DIETS_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_WHEAT_SCREENING_BY_PRODUCT_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_ENZYME_SUPPLEMENTATION?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF DIETARY CORN COBS AND ENZYMES SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWING RABBITS PERFORMANCE===
https://www.academia.edu/8019560/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_CORN_COBS_AND_ENZYMES_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWING_RABBITS_PERFORMANCE?email_work_card=title
Ibrahim abaza

EFFECT OF ENZYMES AND PROBIOTIC MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION TO THE DIET OF GROWING FEMALE RABBITS ON PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CRITERIA" by Mohamed El-Sagheer===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bFNjQ1hweHdXMU5jZStuaTVwR0FNMEl2S2FHYzNLa2twOExReE9oeU9OVT0tLUQ5RXdoNElpYzlpUGJCK0hmMnhseVE9PQ==--05cb9b9a585550db2c1c6d59abe3c29322dc3ee1/t/sPPdN-QaMLryt-K4jEZ/resource/work/11938475/EFFECT_OF_ENZYMES_AND_PROBIOTIC_MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION_TO_THE_DIET_OF_GROWING_FEMALE_RABBITS_ON_PERFORMANCE_AND_CARCASS_CRITERIA?email_work_card=title

REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION
[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION]
" REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION LEBAS F. Cuniculture, 87a Chemin de Lassère, 31450 Corronsac, France lebas@cuniculture.info ABSTRACT In this invited communication the author proposes a list of nutritional recommendations for rabbits of different categories: growing from 18 to 42 days, from 42 to 80 days, for breeding does according to productivity (40-50 kits weaned per doe/year or more than 50) and for a single diet suitable for all rabbits. Recommendations taking account the last published data, are divided in 2 groups. The first corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to feed efficiency: digestible energy, crude and digestible protein, amino acids, minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins. The second group corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to nutritive security and digestive health: different fibre components (lignins, cellulose, hemicelluloses) and their equilibrium, starch and water soluble vitamins. In a second part, 387 papers published during the last 30 years on raw material utilisation in rabbit feeding were analysed. In a total of 14 tables, the 542 corresponding experiments were summarised each by the identification of the raw material, by the highest level of incorporation used in the experiment, by the highest acceptable level, by the main ingredient(s) replaced by the raw material studied, and finally by the authors reference. Raw materials studied were those used in temperate as well as in tropical countries. The raw material were grouped according to the following categories : raw material used as single food (24 experiments), cereals and by-products (43 exp.), other carbohydrates source of energy (62 exp.), fats (27 exp.), full-fat oleaginous grains (10 exp.), oil cakes and meals (43 exp.), proteic seeds such peas or beans (42 exp.), miscellaneous sources of protein such yeast or leaf protein (18 exp.), animal products (21 exp.), non-protein nitrogen source such urea (9 exp.), forages (157 exp.), cereal straws, alkali treated or not (33 exp.), cover or parts of dried grains source of fibre such stalks, hulls or cobs (19 exp.) and industrial by-products usable as fibre source (51 exp.). Key words: nutritional recommendations, raw materials, data basis"

Effect of energy restriction in interaction with genotype on the performance of growing rabbits: II. Carcass traits and meat quality" by Z. Szendrő==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/ZTN1b3FROWR1aUZhWGM1Q0FJRk1XcWpSajlIRDdGUlZUakRXc21FRmxjaz0tLVNIdE1PS3ZtdnZuR1hWWm82UDg3U3c9PQ==--669990dfc647432f898e381ed8b9b41de23c78aa/t/sPPdN-QmqdKDg-bmjCCY/resource/work/13592540/Effect_of_energy_restriction_in_interaction_with_genotype_on_the_performance_of_growing_rabbits_II_Carcass_traits_and_meat_quality?email_work_card=title

Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by hadil samy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bDBFWG8wcXl1MlBnSjlyenBnUkhKL2FZTmVnYmtyVW9vbThrWGNwaERMOD0tLXY4WWFsRlpHU0FKWVRTRTlLTmRCRnc9PQ==--6433eef0d04443b5c7e946a1c73ae59282239da3/t/sPPdN-Qmh7hzB-insEp/resource/work/27823893/Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

DOI: Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by Fathy Abdel-Fattah==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L2g5dmN3WEx4d01hb3JHanJkL1pUQXhZSXBMd3JwczQyVGlGeUhaakFxcz0tLUFPYUloZy9HZnAzMU1wMklmcDUxcEE9PQ==--cf05b9d08abd2994dce26ca3b775a8a327b9c34f/t/sPPdN-QqEo2CE-fAfA5/resource/work/38091315/DOI_Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

INCLUSION OF DRIED AGRO-INDUSTRIAL STRAWBERRY BY- PRODUCTS IN GROWING RABBIT DIETS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/N0V6STlENndzVWprbmthVTJGZEtGcUVha0RzZ2dCWm5sVFZXSFI5VFRPOD0tLWMxRjUyRHpHZ2pyU0l3SGkyR2JXVGc9PQ==--bdf935bf33d5e21673da61a284addd06919e86b9/t/sPPdN-QhFdf7T-VUozM/resource/work/36496618/INCLUSION_OF_DRIED_AGRO_INDUSTRIAL_STRAWBERRY_BY_PRODUCTS_IN_GROWING_RABBIT_DIETS?email_work_card=title

Rabbit’s performance, health and meat quality improvement by phyto-additives" by Attawit Kovitvadhi==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bi8vWGZUcnVHM00zaDJSRklnOWVsV1VtMjlFQjFnQVNDN3VOUXJEQ3Z4Yz0tLXI0MndMN2J3UE8xZkNMbG5yV21YMmc9PQ==--c03893c550d192819f3dde5b88cb43c0251cfc1e/t/sPPdN-QqNsCkH-0zMCL/resource/work/19803703/Rabbit_s_performance_health_and_meat_quality_improvement_by_phyto_additives?email_work_card=title

PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIET CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TOMATO POMACE" by Mahmoud Elazab==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/eDNRMFl1YXdrb2ZTMGdxUkJTYkRTWDNzYkJoVHRVN2locDY1c3FjT3ZCcz0tLTB0R3RFeXZLNGduVlQvN2VQQ1ZaL3c9PQ==--b8af070801c6d13d7041b1060baf6b0b2f86db3f/t/sPPdN-QhbGBew-kbnLX/resource/work/35484427/PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_FED_DIET_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_TOMATO_POMACE?email_work_card=title

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/dVhDUDgwSXFFTHo0UVBldFNXOHFQVkhsbFZnVEphQm50U1FtK1BNc2JIRT0tLXZOQUhpcFFDZ2czSndMaXZDNGVWTVE9PQ==--3f889f2926497df89c9685f9795796f88b4c76c3/t/sPPdN-Qg4y1P2-UzbBy/resource/work/21181061/Growth_performance_carcass_quality_biochemical_and_haematological_traits_and_immune_response_of_growing_rabbits_as_affected_by_different_growth_promoters?email_work_card=title
Growth performance, carcass quality, biochemical and haematological traits and immune response of growing rabbits as affected by different growth promoters" by Youssef Attia]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/d1NVejZIa0VOYm5mUit1dG9xTVdkZ1VHOTB0QUM4aGhHS2xaTVQvcklSTT0tLS9zbXdWNDdBcXBnZFhySTA2Slhxdnc9PQ==--5649e5cdede150483096497d7b424e160c3a414a/t/sPPdN-QdV9eNq-9MtFF/resource/work/36496604/EVALUATION_OF_EGYPTIAN_TREE_WILLOW_Salix_safsafs_LEAVES_AND_ITS_FEEDING_AFFECT_ON_PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_RABBITS?email_work_card=title EVALUATION OF EGYPTIAN TREE WILLOW (Salix safsafs) LEAVES AND ITS FEEDING AFFECT ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBITS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEhlWjJsMlJyc3JCNDNVUlJUK05CaHR2V1NoYWMwVStxTlIrUWloZjEvbz0tLVZEdkJxZVYrc00zYm5aWE5kT0NTTEE9PQ==--b040db53fb351cf834d73ebd3dada957c02e4c95/t/sPPdN-Qfu5LUn-617sS/resource/work/36496613/UTILIZATION_OF_Ziziphus_spina_christi_LEAVES_AS_A_NATURAL_GROWTH_PROMOTER_IN_RABBITS_RATIONS?email_work_card=title UTILIZATION OF Ziziphus spina-christi LEAVES AS A NATURAL GROWTH PROMOTER IN RABBIT'S RATIONS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MzFNWE5hWklnWXhlcStJNExWNjBvcEhudjN1dTZNaVVjdzlnZGpyNVZnMD0tLU4veFVJRldVSElzRy9oN0k2U0tWa1E9PQ==--7562f212c75e4f5a0c8e066594e00fd0239031f2/t/sPPdN-QdyLbjc-qbmgV/resource/work/31846675/Effect_of_replacement_of_berseem_Trifolium_alexandrinum_L_hay_by_berseem_silage_on_performance_of_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title Effect of replacement of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) hay by berseem silage on performance of growing rabbits" by Hamed Gaafar]

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Oil added to feed]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YmlrSzU4SGRBZUJCbGViT0xjNDBZMk0vUGpVTzlFZnlWNjBtbFNSSGVMUT0tLWFlWGtLQVQycjFDSlU3ZmhTcURHdnc9PQ==--b809c3d7d0c75ba0dc95475b2ed5ba659e21e9b8/t/sPPdN-Qe1mzqP-AJQtS/resource/work/12250896/Improving_the_Utilization_of_Rabbit_Diets_Containing_Vegetable_Oil_by_Using_Fennel_Foeniculum_vulgare_And_Oregano_Origanum_vulgare_L_as_Feed_Additives?email_work_card=title Improving the Utilization of Rabbit Diets Containing Vegetable Oil by Using Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) And Oregano (Origanum vulgare L) as Feed Additives" by dr.azza badr]

Study of the effect of grape seed extract as a natural antioxidant on the performance of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits during summer season in Egypt Fawzia A. Hassan1; Khalid M. Mahrose2 and Mohamed Basyony3" by mohamed basyony
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Z0t1TlpMWlo4TjlkRmtURzkxY01MeWZMcEd2SmczNURyUE1GNm10Sy9jaz0tLWNBZ3pLMVZ6RDJ6dnJzeEhsRitsaGc9PQ==--3ea66988e3650ec90c1f8439baede86ffca6bf57/t/sPPdN-QdrCvu9-byFUwt/resource/work/21659194/Study_of_the_effect_of_grape_seed_extract_as_a_natural_antioxidant_on_the_performance_of_New_Zealand_White_NZW_rabbits_during_summer_season_in_Egypt_Fawzia_A_Hassan1_Khalid_M_Mahrose2_and_Mohamed_Basyony3?email_work_card=title

==notes to be incorporated ==

Rabbit Feeding Guide

2025-08-11T23:59:53Z

BCAdmin: /* Other Feed Additives */

= Introduction =

If you search online, you’ll repeatedly find the claim that rabbits should have diets consisting of 80% hay or even an all-hay diet. This recommendation largely originates from the House Rabbit Society (HRS), an extreme animal rights organization that has promoted this 80% hay diet and associated messaging for decades. Oxbow Animal Health, a major supplier of rabbit food, partners with HRS and provides funding, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

For over 20 years, the House Rabbit Society has engaged with soon-to-be exotic animal veterinarians (DVMs), offering support to help them start their practices focused on rabbits. This relationship has resulted in many veterinarians adopting HRS-influenced care practices, which include the widely promoted 80% hay diet. Consequently, this diet recommendation has become entrenched despite significant flaws.

If you review rabbit care guidelines from major universities such as Purdue, UC Davis, Colorado State University, and Washington State University, you’ll notice HRS’s influence in their citations and fine print. This is reflected in feeding recommendations on Oxbow product packaging, which dominate the pet rabbit market. The resulting proliferation of this diet advice has perpetuated misinformation.

An important historical note: in the 1990s, the House Rabbit Society conflated care advice for rabbits and cavies (guinea pigs), even suggesting they could share diets and housing. When it became clear that cavies and rabbits can transmit diseases to each other , HRS retracted the cohabitation advice—but never revisited or corrected their dietary stance for rabbits.

Further scrutiny reveals that much of the 80% hay diet recommendation traces back to a single book co-authored by Susan Brown and Jeff Jenkins titled *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets* (1993). This book, difficult to obtain today, was frequently cited by HRS and related groups as a definitive source for the hay-first diet. However, more recent research by F. Lebas and others has discredited the outdated nutritional guidance in this book. The diet promoted therein fails to meet the minimum nutritional requirements for maintaining healthy rabbits.

Therefore, the House Rabbit Society is not a reliable source for rabbit care information. Their recommendations are often outdated or inaccurate and don’t always reflect current research. For trustworthy guidance, consult the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), the World Rabbit Congress, or reputable breeders ' organizations with access to the latest research and expertise.

One fundamental reason rabbits and cavies require different diets is their distinct gut microbiota, despite some anatomical similarities. A 2017 study by Crowley et al. using next-generation sequencing highlighted significant differences in the microbial populations between rabbits and guinea pigs, confirming that their digestive mechanisms differ substantially.

Furthermore, ARBA care guides, developed by a panel of veterinarians, recommend diets where pellets form the majority component, not hay. Supporting this, research comparing wild and domestic rabbits’ dental and digestive health found that hay is nutritionally poor and difficult to chew, often leading to malocclusion and periodontal disease caused by hay getting trapped between teeth. Wild rabbits are selective feeders, preferring high-nutrition fresh forage and resorting to dried grasses or hay only during starvation or severe winter conditions to survive.

== References ==
* Crowley EJ, King JM, Wilkinson T, Worgan HJ, Huson KM, Rose MT, McEwan NR. (2017). Comparison of the microbial population in rabbits and guinea pigs by next-generation sequencing. PLoS ONE 12(2): e0165779. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0165779
* Jenkins J., Brown S. (1993). *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets*. [Publisher info if available]
* [Link to ARBA Care Guides]
* [Link to World Rabbit Congress resources]

= Pellet Feeding Recommendations =

[[File:RabbitFeeding-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Rabbits do best on a Complete Balanced Alfalfa Based Pellet. 16% protein, 15-20% Fiber.]]

The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recommends feeding a completely balanced pellet as the primary and main source of nutrition for domestic rabbits. When selecting a suitable pellet, it is important to use a baseline of approximately:

* 16% crude protein
* 18% crude fiber
* A grass or legume-based ingredient as the first listed component on the label

These specifications help ensure that your rabbits receive sufficient nutrients for maintenance, growth, and reproductive performance.

Most feeding guidelines recommend providing pellets twice daily, with the total daily amount equaling approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of the rabbit’s ideal adult body weight. Rabbits are crepuscular by nature—most active during dawn and dusk—with periods of rest and digestion during the day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would be fed roughly 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and another 5 ounces in the evening.

It is recommended that a completely balanced pellet constitute between 80% and 100% of a rabbit’s overall diet. This approach helps to ensure that the rabbit’s nutritional requirements are met in a consistent and controlled manner.

Fresh vegetables and greens should be limited to no more than one or two tablespoons total per day. These fresh plants are best used in small quantities for their supplemental or medicinal properties rather than as a primary nutrient source. Feeding excessive fresh fruits or vegetables can disrupt the delicate balance of the rabbit’s hindgut flora and motility, which may result in bacterial overgrowth, gastrointestinal stasis, and potentially fatal bloat.

== Why is Oxbow not recommended? ==

Oxbow is one of the most widely marketed rabbit pellet brands and is often promoted by the House Rabbit Society. However, Oxbow’s formulation tends to have lower protein levels and higher fiber content than what is considered optimal for rabbit health. While rabbits fed Oxbow pellets may survive, their long-term health and condition often suffer.

To put this in perspective, a rabbit’s diet must provide a minimum of 14% digestible protein energy (DE) to maintain condition and support normal metabolic functions. This generally translates to a feed containing about 16% crude protein on a dry matter (DM) basis. A pellet containing only 14% crude protein DM provides closer to 12% DE protein, which is barely enough to sustain life, let alone promote growth or healthy fur and muscle maintenance.

Rabbits consuming diets low in digestible protein often develop a flabby, wasted body condition and exhibit constant shedding or poor coat quality. In addition, fiber levels in the diet should not exceed approximately 22% to prevent the dilution of essential nutrients. If the protein content decreases, the fiber content should decrease proportionally. For example, an Oxbow formula with 14% crude protein and 25% fiber will have a further reduced bioavailability of essential nutrients, with only about 9% DE protein effectively available to the animal, leading to malnutrition and poor health outcomes.

For these reasons, feeds such as ADM Pen Pals 16%, which contains no whole or ground corn and is balanced for all life stages, are preferred. Other recommended brands or formulations include:

* Small World 16% by Manna Pro
* Kambalch 16%
* Rowe 16%
* Hienold Commercial or Wool Formula
* Pen Pals 16%

These recommended pellets are typically alfalfa-based and contain a minimum of 16% crude protein DM with fiber content ranging between 15% and 22%. It is also advisable to avoid feeds containing whole corn kernels, which provide poor-quality nutrition. However, corn distillers, which contain the protein-rich germ without the hull or starch, are acceptable as an ingredient.

== Nuanced Feeding Recommendations ==

=== Feeding Nursing and Pregnant Does ===

Nursing and pregnancy have significantly increased protein and energy requirements to support fetal growth and subsequent milk production. For the first two weeks of pregnancy, it is generally recommended to maintain the doe on a standard maintenance diet containing about 16% protein.

Starting in the third week of pregnancy, the diet should be gradually transitioned to a higher protein ratio, around 18%, to meet the increased nutritional demands. Once the doe has given birth and is nursing kits, she should be allowed free access to a high-quality 18% protein pellet to support continued milk production and recovery.

Several safe and effective feed additives can be included in the diet of nursing does to enhance milk yield. These include:

* Steam-rolled or traditional old-fashioned oats
* Calf manna
* Black oil sunflower seeds

These supplements should be offered in small quantities—generally half to one teaspoon per feeding—in a separate bowl to avoid contamination or waste of pellets.

Bananas (fruit only, no peel) can be offered to pregnant does in limited amounts to provide a natural source of potassium and sugars, which are beneficial during the late stages of fetal development. For nursing does, small amounts of banana peel can also be given, but care must be taken as the peel contains compounds that may induce uterine contractions. Therefore, banana peel should never be given to does before or during pregnancy but can be safely provided immediately after birth.

Additionally, Tums (either plain or fruit-flavored) can serve as a calcium supplement to nursing does. One or two Tums daily for the first few days postpartum can help boost calcium availability for milk production, with occasional supplementation continuing through the nursing period.

*Foods to avoid during pregnancy and nursing:*
** Plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae) should be avoided as they may dry up milk production. They can be given to does only after litter loss or post-weaning when drying up the doe.
** Banana peel must be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential to induce contractions, but it is safe after kindling.

=== Feeding Weanling Rabbits (8 to 20 weeks) ===

Weanlings are in a rapid growth phase and require a diet higher in protein to support development. They should be fed a complete pellet containing between 17% and 20% protein and given free access to ensure adequate intake.

=== Feeding Adult Non-Producing Rabbits ===

Adult rabbits not involved in breeding, gestation, or lactation have more moderate nutritional requirements. Protein levels between 15% and 17% are generally sufficient, provided the pellet contains a minimum of 15% fiber.

Pellets for non-producing adults can be based on timothy or alfalfa hay. Avoid pellets with a grain-based ingredient list, as these are less suitable for optimal rabbit health.

Daily intake guidelines remain at approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of ideal body weight, divided into two feedings per day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would receive approximately 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and 5 ounces in the evening.

=== Conditioning Show Rabbits ===

[[File:FINISHING MIX-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Diet can be amended for different life stages and for special conditioning]]

Show rabbits often require specialized dietary adjustments depending on the life stage or conditioning goals. Some common dietary supplements used to optimize coat quality, muscle tone, and digestive health include:

* **Coat Finishers:** Supplements rich in vitamin E and fat are often used to improve coat luster and texture. Black oil sunflower seeds (BOS) are a popular natural source of these nutrients.
* **Muscle and Flesh Conditioners:** Protein boosters such as whey powder, rolled oats, and barley may be added to the diet to promote muscle development and firmness of flesh, particularly before shows.
* **Digestive Aids:** Enzymatic supplements like papaya enzyme powder assist in nutrient absorption and can help break down ingested wool or fur during shedding seasons.
* **Fiber Supplements:** Small amounts of grass hays and beet pulp shreds can be offered to support gut motility and health. However, be mindful that beet pulp can be high in sugars, so quantities should be kept small. Shredded plain pumpkin is also used as a mild fiber supplement and digestive aid.

= Other Feed Additives =

== Proteins ==
Rabbits require adequate protein for maintenance, growth, and reproduction. While maintenance feeds with 12%-15% protein can sustain non-producing rabbits, a balanced ration containing around 16% protein produces better overall health and condition. Providing a single feed with sufficient protein for all life stages is often easier for management.

* Corn Distillers: Do not confuse whole or cracked corn with corn distillers, which are the protein-rich remnants after fermentation removes sugars. Sugars promote harmful bacterial overgrowth leading to bloat and GI stasis, so avoiding whole corn kernels is critical.

* Soybean: Studies show soybean is a superior protein source compared to cowpea or pigeon pea for growing rabbits. Cowpea varieties with high tannin content may harm kidneys and are not recommended as sole protein sources.

== Fat ==
Fats provide concentrated energy and are important for coat and skin health. Common fat sources include oils and black oil sunflower seeds, which also supply essential fatty acids and vitamin E.

== Carbohydrates ==
Carbohydrates provide energy, but care must be taken to avoid simple sugars that disrupt gut flora.

* Corn: Whole or cracked corn kernels should never be fed to rabbits. However, certain corn by-products (like corn distillers) are acceptable when used correctly.

* Oats and Beet Pulp Shreds: These are common carbohydrate sources that also provide some fiber.

== Fiber ==
Fiber is crucial for maintaining healthy digestive motility and preventing gut disorders. The quality and particle size of fiber directly influence gut health and immune function.

* Excessively high fiber (>25% Acid Detergent Fiber) dilutes dietary energy and reduces growth rates because rabbits cannot consume enough feed to compensate.

* Studies indicate that fiber particle size affects mortality, immunity, and gut bacteria populations in rabbits, with heterogeneous particle sizes increasing lignin content and digestive stress.

Common fiber sources include timothy hay and beet pulp shreds, which help maintain optimal gut function.

== Enzymes ==
Enzymatic supplements can aid digestion, especially during periods of stress or dietary transition. These include papaya enzyme and other proteolytic enzymes.

== Supplements ==
Additional supplements may be used to address specific nutritional needs or to support reproductive performance, coat condition, or digestive health. These are best used judiciously and tailored to the animal's life stage and condition.

== Notes and References ==
* See detailed reviews on fiber digestion and its effects on rabbit health (Gidenne 1996, De Blas 1999, Licois & Gidenne 1999, Bennegadi et al. 2000).
* Particle size and fiber content significantly affect mortality, immune response, and gut bacterial populations (source: https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108).
* Avoid feeding whole or cracked corn kernels; use corn distillers cautiously.

=Hay Feeding recommendations and balancing :=

"There is a vast difference in the nutritional value of hay, depending on the type of hay, the quality of forage prior to preparation and the type of and manner of the curing process of hay."
Dr. T.E.Reed, Rabbit Specialist

This is a limited listing of commonly fed Rabbit hays , for a FULL list of forage types please see [https://www.feedipedia.org/] Feedipedia which is an excellent breakdown of advanced nutritional breakdown including granular analysis of each feed type including hays , grasses Legumes forage, and grains. The following is a quick list of various Forages and their nutrient breakdowns.

===Timothy===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886 Phleum pratense L.] [Poaceae]
Average
*Protein :% DM 13.8 <- best case scenario, typically store bought Timothy that has been sitting for months has a protein of between 3%-9%
*Fiber :% DM 31.8
*Carbohydrates :% DM 4.7 -10.9

Rabbits
Timothy hay has long been recommended to provide fibre, in addition to concentrate feeds, in rabbit diets for smallholder rabbit meat production (Cassady et al., 1966; Schlolaut et al., 1995), and more recently for pet rabbit maintenance (McNitt et al., 2013). Contrary to alfalfa hay, timothy hay cannot support maintenance in adults when used as the sole feed (Richards et al., 1962; Uden et al., 1982). However, it has been possible to include timothy hay up to 60 or even 75% in balanced diets without causing health problems (Keener et al., 1958; Uden et al., 1982). The nutritional value of timothy hay for rabbits is not very high. Estimations of the digestible energy content range from 5.8 to 6.2 MJ/kg. Protein digestibility is low: 62% for early cut young timothy grass (crude protein 17% DM) and 42-47% for mature hays (crude protein less than 6% DM) (Voris et al., 1940; Richards et al., 1962). In addition, it must be pointed out that as for most Poaceae the lysine content of timothy protein is very low and covers only 70% of the lysine requirements of growing rabbits. The very low calcium content of timothy hay (0.33% on average) can be advantageous or unfavourable, depending on the calcium content of the other diet ingredients.

===Alfalfa ===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275 Medicago sativa L.] [Fabaceae]

Average
*Protein :% DM 18.3
*Fiber :% DM 28.6
*Carbohydrates :% DM 4.5

"Alfalfa hay is of utmost importance in rabbit diets (Villamide et al., 2009). Alfalfa hay is highly palatable to rabbits (de Blas et al., 2010). Recommended inclusion levels are not consistent among authors and vary from 20% up to 96%, with a majority of recommendations in the range of 30-40% (de Blas et al., 2010; Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998; Gippert et al., 1988; Harris et al., 1981 and Cheeke et al., 1972 cited by Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa hay is the most widely used fibre source in rabbit diets: it provides long and digestible fibre, thus promoting adequate transit time for the digesta and a balanced growth of the caecal flora (de Blas et al., 2010). Alfalfa hay inclusion decreases caecal pH and favors caecal fermentation (Garcia et al., 2005). Alfalfa hay should be coarsely ground in order to preserve its ballast function and to enhance intestinal motility (Mateos et al., 1989). An excessive substitution of alfalfa hay with highly lignified sources of fibre has deleterious effects on energy digestibility and caecal fermentative activity (Garcia et al., 2000; Garcia et al., 1999); it may hamper average daily gain and feed efficiency (Motta et al., 1996; Parigi-Bini et al., 1980). Substituting short fibre feeds such as paprika meal, sugar beet pulp or soybean hulls for alfalfa had deleterious effects on the performance of fattening, lactating and suckling rabbits. It decreased the weight gains of fattening rabbits by 6%, milk production by 13% and litter weight by 18%. This lower performance was due to lower feed efficiency as the proportion of large fibre (from alfalfa) decreased. Large fibre proportion in rabbit diets should not drop below 21%, corresponding in this case, to a minimal level of 15% alfalfa in the diet (Nicodemus et al., 2006).

As a source of energy, alfalfa cannot fully meet the growth requirements of commercial rabbits, mainly because of its physiological limitation in ingestion (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa hay is also a valuable source of protein (25% of the dietary protein) though its nutritive value varies greatly, depending on several factors such as the harvesting and drying process or plant maturity at harvest. Though alfalfa protein content is sufficient to meet rabbit requirements, the low digestibility of alfalfa protein makes it unsuitable for sustaining high growth rates (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998). The apparent digestibility of faecal protein of alfalfa hay is about 21% that of soybean meal value and its methionine content is 42% that of soybean meal one (Villamide et al., 2010). In tropical regions, where alfalfa is not readily grown, other protein sources such as bambara groundnut can be used instead (Aganga et al., 2005).

Due to heavy fertilizer applications, feeding alfalfa to rabbits may result in excess K (Mateos et al., 2010). Alfalfa hay is rich in calcium: this may be an advantage during the growth period but it should be limited or avoided in adult rabbits (Lowe, 2010). Alfalfa is also an excellent source of most of B vitamins, carotene, E vitamin and K vitamin (Mateos et al., 2010).

High levels of alfalfa hay (88% and 96%) decreased rabbit mortality by 13.6% and 10.3% respectively (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998)."

===Red Clover Hay===
Average
*Protein :% DM 18.7
*Fiber :% DM 27.4
*Carbohydrates :% DM 13

https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246
"Red clover hay introduced at up to 30% in balanced diets in place of alfalfa meal (0, 33, 66 or 100% replacement) did not alter growth, digestibility and mortality (Grandi et al., 1988), indicating that red clover hay could be used safely in complete diets for rabbit feeding."

===Oat forage ===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500 Avena sativa L.] [Poaceae]

Average
*Protein :% DM 9.1
*Fiber :% DM 34.0
*Carbohydrates :% DM 17.7

=== Grass Hay ===

Catch all: Grass hay comes from a variety of sources timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, and bermudagrass. It contains lower levels of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and minerals than legume hay. Grass hay is very high in fiber. Because grass hay contains fewer nutrients, it may be necessary to supplement your livestock’s diet to ensure its nutritional needs are being met.
*Protein :% DM
*Fiber :% DM
*Carbohydrates :% DM

===Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===
Legume and grass hay blends offer the best of both worlds and help bring nutritional balance to hay. Not only do these mixes provide a more well-rounded diet, but growing them together often
produces more forage than growing a legume or grass alone. When considering establishing a legume/grass hayfield, aim for a field containing around 1/3 grass to 2/3 legume. There are several
excellent combinations to plant. Some of the more popular combinations are orchardgrass/alfalfa and tall fescue/alfalfa. These mixed hays are readily eaten and healthy for all types of livestock.
[https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:~:text=Grass%20hay%20also%20comes%20from,is%20very%20high%20in%20fiber. hay]
*Protein :% DM
*Fiber :% DM
*Carbohydrates :% DM

===Bermuda grass ===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471 Cynodon dactylon Pers.] [Poaceae]

*Protein :% DM 9.8
*Fiber :% DM 31.3
*Carbohydrates :% DM 0.8

==hay videos==

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?_t=8VSUBshbIxG&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?_t=8VSUCWs9s55&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?_t=8VSUDNJgg15&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?_t=8VSUKkABG1b&_r=1

== Quick links to Hay Resources ==
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886 Timothy ]

[https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis Understanding a Hay Analysis]

[https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf Selecting Hay for Your Horse ]
Lori K. Warren, PhD, PAS Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida

[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/ Shape Variation in the Craniomandibular System and Prevalence of Dental Problems in Domestic Rabbits: A Case Study in Evolutionary Veterinary Science]
Vet Sci. 2017 Mar; 4(1): 5. Published online 2017 Jan 24. doi: 10.3390/vetsci4010005 PMCID: PMC5606619 PMID: 29056664

[https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/ List of hay found in US]

[https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages Differences between Grass and Legume forages]

[https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/ All Hay Is Not Equal: Choose Your Livestock’s Carefully]

=Rabbit Snacks and Treats =

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Recipes_to_Make_Treats_For_Rabbits Recipe page:]

=Debunked Studies whose info is still used as "evidence" for House Rabbit society Propaganda:=

[https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2041027&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ Preference of rabbits for drinking from open dishes versus nipple drinkers ]
Tschudin, A; Clauss, M; Codron, D; Hatt, J-M.The Veterinary Record; London Vol. 168, Iss. 7, (Feb 19, 2011): 190.

This study was widely discredited, and removed from ResearchGate, and PubMed , becuse the sample size was 12 dwarf rabbits total. Not large enough sample to gather any conclusive evidence.

Also questionable Sources on the House Rabbit society care pages House Rabbit Society cites three sources for their information at the bottom of their care page, they cite zero studies, and zero research, you are expected to take what they post as gospel with no reviewable sources to back it up. it is there for not academic but a op-ed opinion piece. :

*Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
*Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health
*Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison ( 2002-2010 National Board of Directors, House Rabbit Society (Richmond CA) 
https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan_Smith_CV.pdf

Dr. Susan Smith has been invited to speak at numerous HRS conventions. She has also written several opinion articles for laypeople. However, Dr. Smith has not published any research studies involving rabbits, peer-reviewed papers on rabbits, or sponsored rabbit-related research. In fact, all of her rabbit-related activities are solely in her capacity as a member of the House Rabbit Society board. The society appears to be using Dr. Smith's doctorate to lend authority to its opinions, but not to support those opinions with any empirical evidence. This raises the question of whether the HRS is truly an independent organization or whether it is a front for activist interests.

Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health , VP of Technical Services and Research, Oxbow Animal Health 
He was part of the study that tested , The Effect of Feed Form on Diet Digestibility and Cecal Parameters in Rabbits
December 2017Animals 7(12):95 DOI:10.3390/ani7120095 [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593_The_Effect_of_Feed_Form_on_Diet_Digestibility_and_Cecal_Parameters_in_Rabbits] . This study had a total sample size of 15 new Zealand Rabbits. Broken into three groups of five Rabbits. "Rabbits were placed in individual cages with ad libitum access to water and food for 45 days acclimation followed by 30 days experimental period."

"Simple Summary: In addition to hay or forage in the diet pet rabbits are commonly fed a supplementary food as a muesli (granular mix), pellets, or extruded croquettes. This study aimed to determine if form of this supplementary
diet (pelleted vs. extruded) or composition (muesli) had an effect on the diets total tract digestibility and cecal fermentation patterns. Rabbits had slightly higher intake when fed extruded and pelleted diets compared to muesli.
Digestibility results were inconsistent between estimation methods. The extruded diet was more digestible than pelleted according to the total collection digestibility method, but according to internal marker acid insoluble ash
 The pelleted diet was the most digestible. Both the extruded and pelleted diet had similar fermentation patterns, with lower cecal pH and greater proportions of butyrate. Our findings suggest that diet composition, rather
than form, may have a greater impact on nutrient utilization by rabbits "

The pellet used was also only 14% protein. and the sample size was tiny.

Gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology of select exotic companion mammals https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24767739/ [https://books.google.com/books?id=M8WLAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA165&lpg=PA165&dq=Gastrointestinal%20Anatomy%20and%20Physiology%20of%20Select%20Exotic%20Companion%20Mammals&source=bl&ots=tlLl8zcfAn&sig=ACfU3U2IPejsgPTujD2FsbzQydT4JajJTQ&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjiyr_CxKH2AhWxlIkEHYINBmkQ6AF6BAgdEAI&fbclid=IwAR1IGYOezqmKbJ6vTjq52Ud8SlbBbALeUTN5UY_-xQeuV4OeoLuG1yRird8#v=onepage&q=Gastrointestinal%20Anatomy%20and%20Physiology%20of%20Select%20Exotic%20Companion%20Mammals&f=false good breakdown of the mechanic of digestion but has no info regarding actual nutrient requirements ]
by M Kohles · 2014

note: study on this topic is represented above that shows the gut bacteria and digestion is different between Rabbit and Cavy.

Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

Gastrointestinal disease in ferrets and rabbits (Proceedings)
August 1, 2011 Peter G. Fisher, DVM
https://www.dvm360.com/view/gastrointestinal-disease-ferrets-and-rabbits-proceedings
it covers diseases of gastrointestinal tract, and what parasites and infection commonly cause bloat, and not diet.

and the 2 other linked opinion pieces read as a oxbow marketing advertisement. even naming oxbow by name.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/rabbit-medicine-overview-proceedings
Notice how the nutrition section has ZERO links back to ANY supporting research articles yet all other sections have multiple sources cites to support the text.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/thinking-adding-exotic-mammals-your-case-load-equipment-needs-proceedings
This opinion piece reads like commercial for oxbow.

I have reviewed the sources cited in the House Rabbit Society Article on nutrition. Unfortunately, two of the veterinarians they cite, Dr. Peter G. Fisher and Dr. Micah Kohles, do not appear to have any studies or research that support the claims in the Feeding article. Their only support comes from opinion articles that lack supporting research. In fact, the actual studies I have found by these veterinarians provide a more compelling argument for feeding a complete and balanced pellet over "salads" that are low in fiber and high in fermentable carbs, which according to one of their studies, can cause appendix damage. Dr. Susan Smith has no rabbit research in her portfolio, and her only connection to rabbits is that she served on the House Rabbit Society board and repeated the talking points she was given to enhance the House Rabbit Society's credibility. I find it very disappointing that the House Rabbit Society would promote such a misleading article, and I would not recommend it as a reliable source of information on rabbit nutrition.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834_NUTRITIVE_VALUE_OF_SAWDUST

Pine Sawdust:
CP content varied from 1.8 to 3.5 g/100g,
CF content varied from 39.5 to 74.0 g/100g

Timothy Hay
CP content 3% g/100g
CF content 28% g/100g

==Feed Related Studies==

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Researchlinks#REFLECTIONS_ON_RABBIT_NUTRITION_WITH_A_SPECIAL_EMPHASIS_ON_FEED_INGREDIENTS_UTILIZATION Research Links ]

[https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding Rabbit Tracks: Feeds and Feeding April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension] 
Received: 23 May 2021 / Revised: 12 July 2021 / Accepted: 12 July 2021 / Published: 14 July 2021

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health] 
August 2013

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Effects of Rocket Seed Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, and Their Mixture on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Digestibility, Redox Status, and Meat Fatty Acid Profile of Growing Rabbits] 
April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION RECENT RESEARCH ADVANCES IN RABBIT NUTRITION] 
December 2000

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization Reflections on rabbit nutrition with a special emphasis on feed ingredients utilization] 
January 2004

Feed related

Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition
[https://www.academia.edu/8592261/Nutrition_of_the_Rabbit_Second_Edition?email_work_card=title Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition]
Mohammad Rifky

rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding

Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health==
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health

https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION

https://www.vetfolio.com/learn/article/nutrition-know-how-pet-rabbit-nutrition

General Feed Supplements

EFFECT OF DIETARY SELENIUM ENRICHED MICRO-ALGAE SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANTI- OXIDATIVE STATUS OF RABBITS UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IN SUMMER SEASON" by mohamed basyony===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/QllhK1c5L1FDbkFwNEdTNkY4UDI3QnpOTGlCSTRtQ0lNd1V5QTBKVWk2RT0tLXVVQjVtOEVNUm9ZQkIzOEZmY3orSWc9PQ==--c79ce43255800522b842d0c8be4f1a102ba46aaf/t/sPPdN-Qp4b4Q1-bhRvi1/resource/work/21619748/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_SELENIUM_ENRICHED_MICRO_ALGAE_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_AND_ANTI_OXIDATIVE_STATUS_OF_RABBITS_UNDER_HIGH_AMBIENT_TEMPERATURE_IN_SUMMER_SEASON?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Rk9LdEk3cUt6aDQwdEUvK0dPaHhvUkRVRk5iUzdlV05WelVvS3prZkJGdz0tLWZZRFZWUGN3N2ZNTTBFOU4zRElqQ0E9PQ==--bd7de4edfce98920e93a0b1c5d01a3591f51cc78/t/sPPdN-Qdcm7Pe-p67QM/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Effect of Zinc Supplementation on some Physiological and Growth Traits in Local Male Rabbit" by World's Veterinary Journal Editor===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UzR2b3BhSVl6QjFMeTk5bjR1dXQxYTNhZXBwQUh2UncxdFNBUVVjZkRoMD0tLTIrY1NFWVBnU05mWnNwZlFPUTlrM3c9PQ==--7ad74ccf2d833f46a06ba9dcf8a6f6d63038c707/t/sPPdN-QfnHV4z-kQ1wm/resource/work/32956665/Effect_of_Zinc_Supplementation_on_some_Physiological_and_Growth_Traits_in_Local_Male_Rabbit?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 1. Response of Growing Rabbits to DietsHamed A.A. Omer, AbdEl-Maged A. Abedo, Sawsan M. Ahmed, Azza M.M. Badrand Mervat S.M. HasaninLife Science..." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEd0VnRmek51ZDdkNlJBSVhaUlBmV1F1ekFPRUdKTUR3RjczdnVCVSs3MD0tLW1WVGgvc3M2aTdFUURKV2MwOXAwQ3c9PQ==--8aaaec6b132b8e0db8dc46fab39fe4e45b811b1b/t/sPPdN-Qgz1jJD-HxeW0/resource/work/8539516/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_1_Response_of_Growing_Rabbits_to_DietsHamed_A_A_Omer_AbdEl_Maged_A_Abedo_Sawsan_M_Ahmed_Azza_M_M_Badrand_Mervat_S_M_HasaninLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_4_?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 2. Influence of Flaxseeds Levels Supplementations on Blood Constituents, Carcass Characteristics and Fatty Acids Profile." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UThubG0wTEgrc1BKeEFnT3pycEF1OUxwVHZ6S1RGcVd1SkErVThPQnZqMD0tLXV5ZW5LVitIT0NhdDYvZnFuVWJlRlE9PQ==--4d0a1cc52d355dfd197363aa7fa6dc86b45cdf4a/t/sPPdN-QgG9ADH-bbjVAv/resource/work/12250987/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_2_Influence_of_Flaxseeds_Levels_Supplementations_on_Blood_Constituents_Carcass_Characteristics_and_Fatty_Acids_Profile?email_work_card=title

Agronomy: "Growth Performance and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients of Weaned Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Forms of Cocoa Pod Husk Meal" by Asian Online Journal Publishing Group===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L3IzQTZDNUVZWUF2NEwvZDV1Wkp0ZU52TU1meHJIY1dXYkt3UXU4T3E5UT0tLUl3SW9lQ0RZU3NhMjAwNjhIWWY3Y3c9PQ==--a3f206fa63664368e8bfde6eebd8f9470a3bdb2a/t/sPPdN-QpF3kHw-bqigTi/resource/work/35848207/Growth_Performance_and_Apparent_Nutrient_Digestibility_Coefficients_of_Weaned_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Forms_of_Cocoa_Pod_Husk_Meal?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF CHAMOMILE FLOWERS AS FEED ADDITIVE ON SOME BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS FOR GROWING RABBITS" by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YjZsSmVsM3AxM2F4enBmNkU5KzRuTVo2cFJKdUlDY3hVMGJSMDVRS2pwND0tLVN1V3FvTHc5MnI0NXFVbjBuQ1hnYUE9PQ==--3b3eadef9f6ebfe96bfa15eea7a3dfae8e494a31/t/sPPdN-Qpjmi1D-bdz6oo/resource/work/9329672/EFFECT_OF_CHAMOMILE_FLOWERS_AS_FEED_ADDITIVE_ON_SOME_BIOLOGICAL_PARAMETERS_FOR_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

The Nutritive Value of Zornia glochidiata as a Non-conventional Feedstuff in Rabbit in Sokoto, Nigeria" by Ndudim Ogo===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aUFMWjBISEJNMHVKZ080NjR5TGErcXpJRzJMelp0U0JtamU4Y2lvRFpJUT0tLVA2dEFmL0hEcGg0SFV2TG1teVlFaWc9PQ==--622e2baee790f8efb1144e9240ed1ada4b3fe5c8/t/sPPdN-QnogdXn-bc1HPX/resource/work/18711695/The_Nutritive_Value_of_Zornia_glochidiata_as_a_Non_conventional_Feedstuff_in_Rabbit_in_Sokoto_Nigeria?email_work_card=title

Performance of rabbits fed diets with varying concentrate and fodder ratio in north eastern region of Tripura" by Asit Chakrabarti===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MGIycnE2am5lK09CbkEzWnluM1JtaFFjNlk0UVUxSGpQTXNWTE1hS2VYZz0tLWsrdFc5bElVOHcyYmVzWkhrQmRSMVE9PQ==--5b5a30c634eeea396188f5f96e29e2476dd5cdd6/t/sPPdN-QmEt7ei-AvMTB/resource/work/39725417/Performance_of_rabbits_fed_diets_with_varying_concentrate_and_fodder_ratio_in_north_eastern_region_of_Tripura?email_work_card=title

Various Legume as feed and feed supplements

Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits" by Donald Chisowa===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SWR6b1dLWFNBb3pxbFh3VXNCUmxjWnFuV0hac1JuMnhjVERWUzh3djYwOD0tLTdwcXJ2VmJ1UTFTa0p5TzBCUFdlb1E9PQ==--e17ca3b4f9f183f27b84e94a67e75efe6ebf36f4/t/sPPdN-QoQRVXM-WNtJE/resource/work/11351185/Evaluation_of_soybean_Glycine_max_cowpea_Vigna_unguiculata_and_pigeon_pea_Cajanus_cajan_as_sole_sources_of_proteins_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Hamed A.A Omerand Azza M.M. Badr.Growth Performance of New Zealand White Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Pea StrawLife Science Journal 2013;10(2)" by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/U2pZNE5LYmdLY2NleXppeDhCb2owd2YxZ0FDNWJub2IzNmNsM0ZCNlpIQT0tLU51UHBhN3JGQ0ZmOWJYclJTdWRKNkE9PQ==--429eb979b597c8159c3230f2bb5e087f0b6765ca/t/sPPdN-QcSQb5L-bxcsdM/resource/work/8539260/Hamed_A_A_Omerand_Azza_M_M_Badr_Growth_Performance_of_New_Zealand_White_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Levels_of_Pea_StrawLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_2_?email_work_card=title

Effect of Chemical Composition of Alfalfa Hay on Several . Digestive Measurements in Growing Rabbits" by Rosa Carabaño===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/VldVYTkrN3FQVmVjZzBlT0tPSXFNN3lJWks5a0JDbSs2Nm0vWk5yNTAvZz0tLThQaE85MTc3Vlo2YmdwVSsrTFpJdWc9PQ==--90cc8df7accb7e7757b217e27490b7698e7cf5a0/t/sPPdN-Qa9cnMB-B2d8N/resource/work/24812249/Effect_of_Chemical_Composition_of_Alfalfa_Hay_on_Several_Digestive_Measurements_in_Growing_Rabbits?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF FEEDING OLIVE CAKE SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT BENTONITE ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aGhEa0Y3MXpTUm9QK0g4NS8rbGVZTmwyL3Q2Wmd1bFh0VzhhYTFkR1lGTT0tLWdvNlFRT0hhcEowVy9ESGpQTFplTHc9PQ==--e954ae63b78666fe8b6026136d1caa841a3244e7/t/sPPdN-QaECJQk-baz1zi/resource/work/36496594/EFFECT_OF_FEEDING_OLIVE_CAKE_SUPPLEMENTED_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_BENTONITE_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BLOOD COMPONENTS AND SLAUGHTER TRAITS OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE MALE GROWING RABBITS AS AFFECTED BY DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH CALCIUM, SODIUM OR POTASSIUM, IN SUB-TROPICAL EGYPT" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat== https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SU9MMGRUSEhLWGlNT20zaXdkTXEyUjJYYWlFaDI2RHRqNnZtYXF1Z1d6WT0tLUphSHIxRlRRbUZQQituR25Gc0dkK2c9PQ==--841cf9236890a2487e4a977273720546ef9a32dc/t/sPPdN-QaqqFUB-nAEXb/resource/work/12692254/GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_BLOOD_COMPONENTS_AND_SLAUGHTER_TRAITS_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_MALE_GROWING_RABBITS_AS_AFFECTED_BY_DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTATION_WITH_CALCIUM_SODIUM_OR_POTASSIUM_IN_SUB_TROPICAL_EGYPT?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/NHFKYlphcXg4VWNzZGVkSDVmVVFXYXlqOCtHSEVrd3RLN0NQN2xDZFZwYz0tLVVFcFpIZE9zV3pEWWRkU1Z5N09JcUE9PQ==--b6e433ce56d2392549ee5b405d73fa8c16e303ff/t/sPPdN-QaifWu2-bfmPBZ/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Influence of dietary benzoic acid addition on nutrient digestibility and selected biochemical parameters in fattening rabbits" by K. Fegeros==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/b2lheWJTUWNnUEVBTG5Ddm1YamhzSDQySGNZd0k1TVV1aE1ldmFVR1RGVT0tLUNLSk5MYmlvYW1kN29STUUzSCtPelE9PQ==--917462902d2600191af2d70536465a40bd316be4/t/sPPdN-QepHj7D-VtVZd/resource/work/30474431/Influence_of_dietary_benzoic_acid_addition_on_nutrient_digestibility_and_selected_biochemical_parameters_in_fattening_rabbits?email_work_card=title

COMMERCIAL ENZYMES

EFFECT OF USING COMMERCIAL ENZYMES TO IMPROVE DIETS CONTAINED PEANUT HAY ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by Fathy Atta===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OUJlVHFVTHozWlFQYW9idGdPUmJSUHJFZElZdGRXR3Fpc04rZU41N1IrZz0tLXlWY2FhdldaTll1Y1AwbEpxczAxbXc9PQ==--e16599d129e829b7da7a4ca4d6c379ce72e7532b/t/sPPdN-QeUbKK9-bxtmgk/resource/work/7230460/EFFECT_OF_USING_COMMERCIAL_ENZYMES_TO_IMPROVE_DIETS_CONTAINED_PEANUT_HAY_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

RESPONSE OF GROWING RABBITS TO DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF WHEAT SCREENING BY-PRODUCT WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION " by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bGpGeEkrdzZ3NE5PU2hKYUNZdmRQN1JMYjdqMU51RGc0clRmTStHTVhwbz0tLTF5bnhHY0V1TUxLNnZrR1N1WmdmVVE9PQ==--e42c63ee99bdc464d47fa63c8decab24ae97b4fb/t/sPPdN-Qc5erQc-bhct0a/resource/work/5108323/RESPONSE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_TO_DIETS_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_WHEAT_SCREENING_BY_PRODUCT_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_ENZYME_SUPPLEMENTATION?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF DIETARY CORN COBS AND ENZYMES SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWING RABBITS PERFORMANCE===
https://www.academia.edu/8019560/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_CORN_COBS_AND_ENZYMES_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWING_RABBITS_PERFORMANCE?email_work_card=title
Ibrahim abaza

EFFECT OF ENZYMES AND PROBIOTIC MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION TO THE DIET OF GROWING FEMALE RABBITS ON PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CRITERIA" by Mohamed El-Sagheer===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bFNjQ1hweHdXMU5jZStuaTVwR0FNMEl2S2FHYzNLa2twOExReE9oeU9OVT0tLUQ5RXdoNElpYzlpUGJCK0hmMnhseVE9PQ==--05cb9b9a585550db2c1c6d59abe3c29322dc3ee1/t/sPPdN-QaMLryt-K4jEZ/resource/work/11938475/EFFECT_OF_ENZYMES_AND_PROBIOTIC_MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION_TO_THE_DIET_OF_GROWING_FEMALE_RABBITS_ON_PERFORMANCE_AND_CARCASS_CRITERIA?email_work_card=title

REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION
[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION]
" REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION LEBAS F. Cuniculture, 87a Chemin de Lassère, 31450 Corronsac, France lebas@cuniculture.info ABSTRACT In this invited communication the author proposes a list of nutritional recommendations for rabbits of different categories: growing from 18 to 42 days, from 42 to 80 days, for breeding does according to productivity (40-50 kits weaned per doe/year or more than 50) and for a single diet suitable for all rabbits. Recommendations taking account the last published data, are divided in 2 groups. The first corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to feed efficiency: digestible energy, crude and digestible protein, amino acids, minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins. The second group corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to nutritive security and digestive health: different fibre components (lignins, cellulose, hemicelluloses) and their equilibrium, starch and water soluble vitamins. In a second part, 387 papers published during the last 30 years on raw material utilisation in rabbit feeding were analysed. In a total of 14 tables, the 542 corresponding experiments were summarised each by the identification of the raw material, by the highest level of incorporation used in the experiment, by the highest acceptable level, by the main ingredient(s) replaced by the raw material studied, and finally by the authors reference. Raw materials studied were those used in temperate as well as in tropical countries. The raw material were grouped according to the following categories : raw material used as single food (24 experiments), cereals and by-products (43 exp.), other carbohydrates source of energy (62 exp.), fats (27 exp.), full-fat oleaginous grains (10 exp.), oil cakes and meals (43 exp.), proteic seeds such peas or beans (42 exp.), miscellaneous sources of protein such yeast or leaf protein (18 exp.), animal products (21 exp.), non-protein nitrogen source such urea (9 exp.), forages (157 exp.), cereal straws, alkali treated or not (33 exp.), cover or parts of dried grains source of fibre such stalks, hulls or cobs (19 exp.) and industrial by-products usable as fibre source (51 exp.). Key words: nutritional recommendations, raw materials, data basis"

Effect of energy restriction in interaction with genotype on the performance of growing rabbits: II. Carcass traits and meat quality" by Z. Szendrő==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/ZTN1b3FROWR1aUZhWGM1Q0FJRk1XcWpSajlIRDdGUlZUakRXc21FRmxjaz0tLVNIdE1PS3ZtdnZuR1hWWm82UDg3U3c9PQ==--669990dfc647432f898e381ed8b9b41de23c78aa/t/sPPdN-QmqdKDg-bmjCCY/resource/work/13592540/Effect_of_energy_restriction_in_interaction_with_genotype_on_the_performance_of_growing_rabbits_II_Carcass_traits_and_meat_quality?email_work_card=title

Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by hadil samy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bDBFWG8wcXl1MlBnSjlyenBnUkhKL2FZTmVnYmtyVW9vbThrWGNwaERMOD0tLXY4WWFsRlpHU0FKWVRTRTlLTmRCRnc9PQ==--6433eef0d04443b5c7e946a1c73ae59282239da3/t/sPPdN-Qmh7hzB-insEp/resource/work/27823893/Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

DOI: Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by Fathy Abdel-Fattah==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L2g5dmN3WEx4d01hb3JHanJkL1pUQXhZSXBMd3JwczQyVGlGeUhaakFxcz0tLUFPYUloZy9HZnAzMU1wMklmcDUxcEE9PQ==--cf05b9d08abd2994dce26ca3b775a8a327b9c34f/t/sPPdN-QqEo2CE-fAfA5/resource/work/38091315/DOI_Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

INCLUSION OF DRIED AGRO-INDUSTRIAL STRAWBERRY BY- PRODUCTS IN GROWING RABBIT DIETS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/N0V6STlENndzVWprbmthVTJGZEtGcUVha0RzZ2dCWm5sVFZXSFI5VFRPOD0tLWMxRjUyRHpHZ2pyU0l3SGkyR2JXVGc9PQ==--bdf935bf33d5e21673da61a284addd06919e86b9/t/sPPdN-QhFdf7T-VUozM/resource/work/36496618/INCLUSION_OF_DRIED_AGRO_INDUSTRIAL_STRAWBERRY_BY_PRODUCTS_IN_GROWING_RABBIT_DIETS?email_work_card=title

Rabbit’s performance, health and meat quality improvement by phyto-additives" by Attawit Kovitvadhi==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bi8vWGZUcnVHM00zaDJSRklnOWVsV1VtMjlFQjFnQVNDN3VOUXJEQ3Z4Yz0tLXI0MndMN2J3UE8xZkNMbG5yV21YMmc9PQ==--c03893c550d192819f3dde5b88cb43c0251cfc1e/t/sPPdN-QqNsCkH-0zMCL/resource/work/19803703/Rabbit_s_performance_health_and_meat_quality_improvement_by_phyto_additives?email_work_card=title

PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIET CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TOMATO POMACE" by Mahmoud Elazab==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/eDNRMFl1YXdrb2ZTMGdxUkJTYkRTWDNzYkJoVHRVN2locDY1c3FjT3ZCcz0tLTB0R3RFeXZLNGduVlQvN2VQQ1ZaL3c9PQ==--b8af070801c6d13d7041b1060baf6b0b2f86db3f/t/sPPdN-QhbGBew-kbnLX/resource/work/35484427/PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_FED_DIET_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_TOMATO_POMACE?email_work_card=title

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/dVhDUDgwSXFFTHo0UVBldFNXOHFQVkhsbFZnVEphQm50U1FtK1BNc2JIRT0tLXZOQUhpcFFDZ2czSndMaXZDNGVWTVE9PQ==--3f889f2926497df89c9685f9795796f88b4c76c3/t/sPPdN-Qg4y1P2-UzbBy/resource/work/21181061/Growth_performance_carcass_quality_biochemical_and_haematological_traits_and_immune_response_of_growing_rabbits_as_affected_by_different_growth_promoters?email_work_card=title
Growth performance, carcass quality, biochemical and haematological traits and immune response of growing rabbits as affected by different growth promoters" by Youssef Attia]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/d1NVejZIa0VOYm5mUit1dG9xTVdkZ1VHOTB0QUM4aGhHS2xaTVQvcklSTT0tLS9zbXdWNDdBcXBnZFhySTA2Slhxdnc9PQ==--5649e5cdede150483096497d7b424e160c3a414a/t/sPPdN-QdV9eNq-9MtFF/resource/work/36496604/EVALUATION_OF_EGYPTIAN_TREE_WILLOW_Salix_safsafs_LEAVES_AND_ITS_FEEDING_AFFECT_ON_PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_RABBITS?email_work_card=title EVALUATION OF EGYPTIAN TREE WILLOW (Salix safsafs) LEAVES AND ITS FEEDING AFFECT ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBITS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEhlWjJsMlJyc3JCNDNVUlJUK05CaHR2V1NoYWMwVStxTlIrUWloZjEvbz0tLVZEdkJxZVYrc00zYm5aWE5kT0NTTEE9PQ==--b040db53fb351cf834d73ebd3dada957c02e4c95/t/sPPdN-Qfu5LUn-617sS/resource/work/36496613/UTILIZATION_OF_Ziziphus_spina_christi_LEAVES_AS_A_NATURAL_GROWTH_PROMOTER_IN_RABBITS_RATIONS?email_work_card=title UTILIZATION OF Ziziphus spina-christi LEAVES AS A NATURAL GROWTH PROMOTER IN RABBIT'S RATIONS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MzFNWE5hWklnWXhlcStJNExWNjBvcEhudjN1dTZNaVVjdzlnZGpyNVZnMD0tLU4veFVJRldVSElzRy9oN0k2U0tWa1E9PQ==--7562f212c75e4f5a0c8e066594e00fd0239031f2/t/sPPdN-QdyLbjc-qbmgV/resource/work/31846675/Effect_of_replacement_of_berseem_Trifolium_alexandrinum_L_hay_by_berseem_silage_on_performance_of_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title Effect of replacement of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) hay by berseem silage on performance of growing rabbits" by Hamed Gaafar]

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Oil added to feed]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YmlrSzU4SGRBZUJCbGViT0xjNDBZMk0vUGpVTzlFZnlWNjBtbFNSSGVMUT0tLWFlWGtLQVQycjFDSlU3ZmhTcURHdnc9PQ==--b809c3d7d0c75ba0dc95475b2ed5ba659e21e9b8/t/sPPdN-Qe1mzqP-AJQtS/resource/work/12250896/Improving_the_Utilization_of_Rabbit_Diets_Containing_Vegetable_Oil_by_Using_Fennel_Foeniculum_vulgare_And_Oregano_Origanum_vulgare_L_as_Feed_Additives?email_work_card=title Improving the Utilization of Rabbit Diets Containing Vegetable Oil by Using Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) And Oregano (Origanum vulgare L) as Feed Additives" by dr.azza badr]

Study of the effect of grape seed extract as a natural antioxidant on the performance of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits during summer season in Egypt Fawzia A. Hassan1; Khalid M. Mahrose2 and Mohamed Basyony3" by mohamed basyony
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Z0t1TlpMWlo4TjlkRmtURzkxY01MeWZMcEd2SmczNURyUE1GNm10Sy9jaz0tLWNBZ3pLMVZ6RDJ6dnJzeEhsRitsaGc9PQ==--3ea66988e3650ec90c1f8439baede86ffca6bf57/t/sPPdN-QdrCvu9-byFUwt/resource/work/21659194/Study_of_the_effect_of_grape_seed_extract_as_a_natural_antioxidant_on_the_performance_of_New_Zealand_White_NZW_rabbits_during_summer_season_in_Egypt_Fawzia_A_Hassan1_Khalid_M_Mahrose2_and_Mohamed_Basyony3?email_work_card=title

==notes to be incorporated ==

Rabbit Feeding Guide

2025-08-11T23:58:01Z

BCAdmin: /* Pellet Feeding Recommendations */

= Introduction =

If you search online, you’ll repeatedly find the claim that rabbits should have diets consisting of 80% hay or even an all-hay diet. This recommendation largely originates from the House Rabbit Society (HRS), an extreme animal rights organization that has promoted this 80% hay diet and associated messaging for decades. Oxbow Animal Health, a major supplier of rabbit food, partners with HRS and provides funding, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

For over 20 years, the House Rabbit Society has engaged with soon-to-be exotic animal veterinarians (DVMs), offering support to help them start their practices focused on rabbits. This relationship has resulted in many veterinarians adopting HRS-influenced care practices, which include the widely promoted 80% hay diet. Consequently, this diet recommendation has become entrenched despite significant flaws.

If you review rabbit care guidelines from major universities such as Purdue, UC Davis, Colorado State University, and Washington State University, you’ll notice HRS’s influence in their citations and fine print. This is reflected in feeding recommendations on Oxbow product packaging, which dominate the pet rabbit market. The resulting proliferation of this diet advice has perpetuated misinformation.

An important historical note: in the 1990s, the House Rabbit Society conflated care advice for rabbits and cavies (guinea pigs), even suggesting they could share diets and housing. When it became clear that cavies and rabbits can transmit diseases to each other , HRS retracted the cohabitation advice—but never revisited or corrected their dietary stance for rabbits.

Further scrutiny reveals that much of the 80% hay diet recommendation traces back to a single book co-authored by Susan Brown and Jeff Jenkins titled *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets* (1993). This book, difficult to obtain today, was frequently cited by HRS and related groups as a definitive source for the hay-first diet. However, more recent research by F. Lebas and others has discredited the outdated nutritional guidance in this book. The diet promoted therein fails to meet the minimum nutritional requirements for maintaining healthy rabbits.

Therefore, the House Rabbit Society is not a reliable source for rabbit care information. Their recommendations are often outdated or inaccurate and don’t always reflect current research. For trustworthy guidance, consult the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), the World Rabbit Congress, or reputable breeders ' organizations with access to the latest research and expertise.

One fundamental reason rabbits and cavies require different diets is their distinct gut microbiota, despite some anatomical similarities. A 2017 study by Crowley et al. using next-generation sequencing highlighted significant differences in the microbial populations between rabbits and guinea pigs, confirming that their digestive mechanisms differ substantially.

Furthermore, ARBA care guides, developed by a panel of veterinarians, recommend diets where pellets form the majority component, not hay. Supporting this, research comparing wild and domestic rabbits’ dental and digestive health found that hay is nutritionally poor and difficult to chew, often leading to malocclusion and periodontal disease caused by hay getting trapped between teeth. Wild rabbits are selective feeders, preferring high-nutrition fresh forage and resorting to dried grasses or hay only during starvation or severe winter conditions to survive.

== References ==
* Crowley EJ, King JM, Wilkinson T, Worgan HJ, Huson KM, Rose MT, McEwan NR. (2017). Comparison of the microbial population in rabbits and guinea pigs by next-generation sequencing. PLoS ONE 12(2): e0165779. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0165779
* Jenkins J., Brown S. (1993). *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets*. [Publisher info if available]
* [Link to ARBA Care Guides]
* [Link to World Rabbit Congress resources]

= Pellet Feeding Recommendations =

[[File:RabbitFeeding-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Rabbits do best on a Complete Balanced Alfalfa Based Pellet. 16% protein, 15-20% Fiber.]]

The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recommends feeding a completely balanced pellet as the primary and main source of nutrition for domestic rabbits. When selecting a suitable pellet, it is important to use a baseline of approximately:

* 16% crude protein
* 18% crude fiber
* A grass or legume-based ingredient as the first listed component on the label

These specifications help ensure that your rabbits receive sufficient nutrients for maintenance, growth, and reproductive performance.

Most feeding guidelines recommend providing pellets twice daily, with the total daily amount equaling approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of the rabbit’s ideal adult body weight. Rabbits are crepuscular by nature—most active during dawn and dusk—with periods of rest and digestion during the day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would be fed roughly 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and another 5 ounces in the evening.

It is recommended that a completely balanced pellet constitute between 80% and 100% of a rabbit’s overall diet. This approach helps to ensure that the rabbit’s nutritional requirements are met in a consistent and controlled manner.

Fresh vegetables and greens should be limited to no more than one or two tablespoons total per day. These fresh plants are best used in small quantities for their supplemental or medicinal properties rather than as a primary nutrient source. Feeding excessive fresh fruits or vegetables can disrupt the delicate balance of the rabbit’s hindgut flora and motility, which may result in bacterial overgrowth, gastrointestinal stasis, and potentially fatal bloat.

== Why is Oxbow not recommended? ==

Oxbow is one of the most widely marketed rabbit pellet brands and is often promoted by the House Rabbit Society. However, Oxbow’s formulation tends to have lower protein levels and higher fiber content than what is considered optimal for rabbit health. While rabbits fed Oxbow pellets may survive, their long-term health and condition often suffer.

To put this in perspective, a rabbit’s diet must provide a minimum of 14% digestible protein energy (DE) to maintain condition and support normal metabolic functions. This generally translates to a feed containing about 16% crude protein on a dry matter (DM) basis. A pellet containing only 14% crude protein DM provides closer to 12% DE protein, which is barely enough to sustain life, let alone promote growth or healthy fur and muscle maintenance.

Rabbits consuming diets low in digestible protein often develop a flabby, wasted body condition and exhibit constant shedding or poor coat quality. In addition, fiber levels in the diet should not exceed approximately 22% to prevent the dilution of essential nutrients. If the protein content decreases, the fiber content should decrease proportionally. For example, an Oxbow formula with 14% crude protein and 25% fiber will have a further reduced bioavailability of essential nutrients, with only about 9% DE protein effectively available to the animal, leading to malnutrition and poor health outcomes.

For these reasons, feeds such as ADM Pen Pals 16%, which contains no whole or ground corn and is balanced for all life stages, are preferred. Other recommended brands or formulations include:

* Small World 16% by Manna Pro
* Kambalch 16%
* Rowe 16%
* Hienold Commercial or Wool Formula
* Pen Pals 16%

These recommended pellets are typically alfalfa-based and contain a minimum of 16% crude protein DM with fiber content ranging between 15% and 22%. It is also advisable to avoid feeds containing whole corn kernels, which provide poor-quality nutrition. However, corn distillers, which contain the protein-rich germ without the hull or starch, are acceptable as an ingredient.

== Nuanced Feeding Recommendations ==

=== Feeding Nursing and Pregnant Does ===

Nursing and pregnancy have significantly increased protein and energy requirements to support fetal growth and subsequent milk production. For the first two weeks of pregnancy, it is generally recommended to maintain the doe on a standard maintenance diet containing about 16% protein.

Starting in the third week of pregnancy, the diet should be gradually transitioned to a higher protein ratio, around 18%, to meet the increased nutritional demands. Once the doe has given birth and is nursing kits, she should be allowed free access to a high-quality 18% protein pellet to support continued milk production and recovery.

Several safe and effective feed additives can be included in the diet of nursing does to enhance milk yield. These include:

* Steam-rolled or traditional old-fashioned oats
* Calf manna
* Black oil sunflower seeds

These supplements should be offered in small quantities—generally half to one teaspoon per feeding—in a separate bowl to avoid contamination or waste of pellets.

Bananas (fruit only, no peel) can be offered to pregnant does in limited amounts to provide a natural source of potassium and sugars, which are beneficial during the late stages of fetal development. For nursing does, small amounts of banana peel can also be given, but care must be taken as the peel contains compounds that may induce uterine contractions. Therefore, banana peel should never be given to does before or during pregnancy but can be safely provided immediately after birth.

Additionally, Tums (either plain or fruit-flavored) can serve as a calcium supplement to nursing does. One or two Tums daily for the first few days postpartum can help boost calcium availability for milk production, with occasional supplementation continuing through the nursing period.

*Foods to avoid during pregnancy and nursing:*
** Plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae) should be avoided as they may dry up milk production. They can be given to does only after litter loss or post-weaning when drying up the doe.
** Banana peel must be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential to induce contractions, but it is safe after kindling.

=== Feeding Weanling Rabbits (8 to 20 weeks) ===

Weanlings are in a rapid growth phase and require a diet higher in protein to support development. They should be fed a complete pellet containing between 17% and 20% protein and given free access to ensure adequate intake.

=== Feeding Adult Non-Producing Rabbits ===

Adult rabbits not involved in breeding, gestation, or lactation have more moderate nutritional requirements. Protein levels between 15% and 17% are generally sufficient, provided the pellet contains a minimum of 15% fiber.

Pellets for non-producing adults can be based on timothy or alfalfa hay. Avoid pellets with a grain-based ingredient list, as these are less suitable for optimal rabbit health.

Daily intake guidelines remain at approximately 1 ounce of pellets per pound of ideal body weight, divided into two feedings per day. For example, a 10-pound adult rabbit would receive approximately 5 ounces of pellets in the morning and 5 ounces in the evening.

=== Conditioning Show Rabbits ===

[[File:FINISHING MIX-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Diet can be amended for different life stages and for special conditioning]]

Show rabbits often require specialized dietary adjustments depending on the life stage or conditioning goals. Some common dietary supplements used to optimize coat quality, muscle tone, and digestive health include:

* **Coat Finishers:** Supplements rich in vitamin E and fat are often used to improve coat luster and texture. Black oil sunflower seeds (BOS) are a popular natural source of these nutrients.
* **Muscle and Flesh Conditioners:** Protein boosters such as whey powder, rolled oats, and barley may be added to the diet to promote muscle development and firmness of flesh, particularly before shows.
* **Digestive Aids:** Enzymatic supplements like papaya enzyme powder assist in nutrient absorption and can help break down ingested wool or fur during shedding seasons.
* **Fiber Supplements:** Small amounts of grass hays and beet pulp shreds can be offered to support gut motility and health. However, be mindful that beet pulp can be high in sugars, so quantities should be kept small. Shredded plain pumpkin is also used as a mild fiber supplement and digestive aid.

= Other Feed Additives =

==Proteins==

While a cheaper maintenance feed can sustain a rabbit on 12%-15% protein for nonproductive animals, a Ration of 16% will give best results on overall health and condition of the Rabbit. It is worth a little extra cost to feed a rabbit a slightly higher protein balanced maintenance feed.

Although protein is an expensive part of the ration, rabbits can be fed higher levels of protein than those required for the type or stage of the rabbit if the ration is adequate in other nutrients. Therefore, it can be easier to use a
single ration for all stages of rabbit production. [https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding Rabbit Tracks: Feeds and Feeding April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension ]

*Corn Distillers: Do not confuse feed corn with corn distillers. Distillers is the pure protein centers of corn after the brewing process eats all the sugars out of it. When the studies on corn started coming out it created a better understanding of how those break down into sugars... and sugars cause bad bacterial gut blooms that cause bloat , GI stasis and death.

*Soybean :
conclusion from this study don't use CowPea, it will destroy the kidneys and New Zealand's absolutely fail on it. Soybean can be used safely as a sole or additive source of proteins .

The results observed in this study indicate the superiority of soybean over pigeon pea and cowpea as sole sources of protein in rabbit rations. The study further demonstrated that pigeon pea was superior to cowpea as a sole source of protein in
rabbit rations. The study has also indicated that even though soybean has been observed to be more effective than pigeon pea and cowpea as a protein supplement, pigeon pea can replace soybean without adversely affecting the performance of
rabbits. Results of this study suggest that the variety of cowpea used in these experiments is not suitable as a sole source of protein in rabbit rations because of its high tannin content.
Donald Chisowa
[https://www.academia.edu/11351185/Evaluation_of_soybean_Glycine_max_cowpea_Vigna_unguiculata_and_pigeon_pea_Cajanus_cajan_as_sole_sources_of_proteins_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits]

==Fat==
*oils
*Black Oil Sunflower seeds

==Carbs==
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Corn Corn*]
**Do not feed whole or cracked corn to rabbits, certain corn by-products and feed derivatives are ok, but not the kernels. Rabbits can not digest the whole or cracked kernels and it will cause a sugar over load in the hind gut leading to bloat and GI stais .**

*Oats
*Beet Pulp Shreds

==Fiber==

The digestion of fibre in the rabbit was subjected to several recent reviews (GIDENNE, 1996;
GIDENNE et al., 1998d; DE BLAS et al., 1999), as the dietary fibre supply is implicated in the
prevention of the digestive disorders (GIDENNE, 1997). However, the favourable effect of fibres with
respect to resistance to pathogenic agents was clearly shown only recently (LICOIS and GIDENNE,
1999). In 2000, the same team has also clearly demonstrated the interaction between the initial
health status of the animal (SPF vs conventional) and the reaction to low fibre feeds: the higher the
initial health status, the lower the digestive disorders frequency (BENNEGADI et al., 2000)
On the other hand, a high fibre supply leads to an energy dilution of the diet. The animal thus
attempts to increase its feed intake to satisfy energetic needs, and the feed conversion is reduced.
When the dietary fibre level is very high (>25% ADF), the animal cannot increase its intake
sufficiently to meet its energetic needs, thus leading to a lower growth rate. 
~ F. Lebas & T. Gidenne «Recent research advances in rabbit nutrition» page 4 

Feeds to increase fiber
*beet Pulp Shreds
*Timothy

Notes to review:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7054611/

https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108#:~:text=If%20the%20composition%20of%20fiber,stress%2Dinducing%20digestive%20system%20disorders.
"If the composition of fiber feed is not homogenous in terms of particle size (i.e., the feed particles are different sizes), the proportion of the lignin content will be increased. The need for fiber particles in feed increased and was positively correlated with the presence of lignin7. In general, the size of the fiber particles for rabbits ranges from 0.5-1.5 mm before pellets are made. The particle size of the feed affects digestion and is essential for motility in the rabbit gut8. Particle size can cause a decrease in the quality of nutrients and promote stress-inducing digestive system disorders."

"The interaction between the NDF concentration and fiber particle size had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the cumulative mortality of NZW crossbred rabbits from 5-12 weeks of age. The F2P2 and F3P2 treatment combinations showed the lowest mortality rates (0%) (Table 2). The average mortality in all treatment groups up to 12 weeks of age was 19.44%. The results in this study showed that the highest mortality occurred at 8 and 9 weeks of age. The mortality in the F1P2 and F2P3 treatment groups at 9 weeks of age was 18.75% and the total mortality rate in all treatment groups was 6.25% (Table 2). The treatment group with the lowest NDF level (F1) showed the highest mortality rate (14.58%) at 8 weeks of age and the average mortality rate in all NDF feed grade groups was 6.94% (Table 2).

Fiber particle size had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the number of leukocytes, eosinophils and neutrophils in NZW crossbred rabbits that were in the postweaning period. Increases in fiber particle size could increase leukocyte levels from 3.83-6.57×109 dL–1, eosinophil levels from 0.04-0.07×109 L–1 and neutrophil levels from 2.18-3.96×109 L–1 in rabbits in the postweaning period. These values were above the normal standards (Table 2).

The interaction between the NDF level and fiber particle size had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the number of lymphocytes in postweaning period rabbits, with the mean of 1.66×109 L–1, although this value was still within the normal range (0.8-6.5×109 L–1) (Table 2).

The NDF level and fiber particle size each had a significant main effect (p>0.05) on the number of E. coli bacteria in the contents of the caecum, with an average of 3.01×109 CFU mL–1 during the NZW rabbit postweaning period but there was no interaction. Level F1 showed the highest average value of E. coli bacterial contamination at 3.37×109 CFU mL–1. Level P2 showed the lowest average E. coli bacterial contamination value at 2.70×109 CFU mL–1 (Table 3)."
"CONCLUSION
It is concluded that the mortality rate up to the 12th week of development in NZW rabbits was 19.44%. The treatment combinations F3P2 and F2P2 showed the lowest mortality rate (0%), as well as low E. coli infections of 2.55and 2.70×109 CFU mL–1, respectively. This result showed that there was a relationship between mortality and E. coli infection. The feed treatment affected the hematological values of rabbits in the postweaning period. Differences in infection rates and stress in postweaning period rabbits were also observed as a response to differences in feed. This study showed that feed affected mortality, immunity, hematology and stress status of rabbits in the postweaning period. The F3P2 treatment combination was the best feed tested in this study."

==Enzymes==

==Supplements==

=Hay Feeding recommendations and balancing :=

"There is a vast difference in the nutritional value of hay, depending on the type of hay, the quality of forage prior to preparation and the type of and manner of the curing process of hay."
Dr. T.E.Reed, Rabbit Specialist

This is a limited listing of commonly fed Rabbit hays , for a FULL list of forage types please see [https://www.feedipedia.org/] Feedipedia which is an excellent breakdown of advanced nutritional breakdown including granular analysis of each feed type including hays , grasses Legumes forage, and grains. The following is a quick list of various Forages and their nutrient breakdowns.

===Timothy===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886 Phleum pratense L.] [Poaceae]
Average
*Protein :% DM 13.8 <- best case scenario, typically store bought Timothy that has been sitting for months has a protein of between 3%-9%
*Fiber :% DM 31.8
*Carbohydrates :% DM 4.7 -10.9

Rabbits
Timothy hay has long been recommended to provide fibre, in addition to concentrate feeds, in rabbit diets for smallholder rabbit meat production (Cassady et al., 1966; Schlolaut et al., 1995), and more recently for pet rabbit maintenance (McNitt et al., 2013). Contrary to alfalfa hay, timothy hay cannot support maintenance in adults when used as the sole feed (Richards et al., 1962; Uden et al., 1982). However, it has been possible to include timothy hay up to 60 or even 75% in balanced diets without causing health problems (Keener et al., 1958; Uden et al., 1982). The nutritional value of timothy hay for rabbits is not very high. Estimations of the digestible energy content range from 5.8 to 6.2 MJ/kg. Protein digestibility is low: 62% for early cut young timothy grass (crude protein 17% DM) and 42-47% for mature hays (crude protein less than 6% DM) (Voris et al., 1940; Richards et al., 1962). In addition, it must be pointed out that as for most Poaceae the lysine content of timothy protein is very low and covers only 70% of the lysine requirements of growing rabbits. The very low calcium content of timothy hay (0.33% on average) can be advantageous or unfavourable, depending on the calcium content of the other diet ingredients.

===Alfalfa ===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275 Medicago sativa L.] [Fabaceae]

Average
*Protein :% DM 18.3
*Fiber :% DM 28.6
*Carbohydrates :% DM 4.5

"Alfalfa hay is of utmost importance in rabbit diets (Villamide et al., 2009). Alfalfa hay is highly palatable to rabbits (de Blas et al., 2010). Recommended inclusion levels are not consistent among authors and vary from 20% up to 96%, with a majority of recommendations in the range of 30-40% (de Blas et al., 2010; Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998; Gippert et al., 1988; Harris et al., 1981 and Cheeke et al., 1972 cited by Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa hay is the most widely used fibre source in rabbit diets: it provides long and digestible fibre, thus promoting adequate transit time for the digesta and a balanced growth of the caecal flora (de Blas et al., 2010). Alfalfa hay inclusion decreases caecal pH and favors caecal fermentation (Garcia et al., 2005). Alfalfa hay should be coarsely ground in order to preserve its ballast function and to enhance intestinal motility (Mateos et al., 1989). An excessive substitution of alfalfa hay with highly lignified sources of fibre has deleterious effects on energy digestibility and caecal fermentative activity (Garcia et al., 2000; Garcia et al., 1999); it may hamper average daily gain and feed efficiency (Motta et al., 1996; Parigi-Bini et al., 1980). Substituting short fibre feeds such as paprika meal, sugar beet pulp or soybean hulls for alfalfa had deleterious effects on the performance of fattening, lactating and suckling rabbits. It decreased the weight gains of fattening rabbits by 6%, milk production by 13% and litter weight by 18%. This lower performance was due to lower feed efficiency as the proportion of large fibre (from alfalfa) decreased. Large fibre proportion in rabbit diets should not drop below 21%, corresponding in this case, to a minimal level of 15% alfalfa in the diet (Nicodemus et al., 2006).

As a source of energy, alfalfa cannot fully meet the growth requirements of commercial rabbits, mainly because of its physiological limitation in ingestion (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa hay is also a valuable source of protein (25% of the dietary protein) though its nutritive value varies greatly, depending on several factors such as the harvesting and drying process or plant maturity at harvest. Though alfalfa protein content is sufficient to meet rabbit requirements, the low digestibility of alfalfa protein makes it unsuitable for sustaining high growth rates (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998). The apparent digestibility of faecal protein of alfalfa hay is about 21% that of soybean meal value and its methionine content is 42% that of soybean meal one (Villamide et al., 2010). In tropical regions, where alfalfa is not readily grown, other protein sources such as bambara groundnut can be used instead (Aganga et al., 2005).

Due to heavy fertilizer applications, feeding alfalfa to rabbits may result in excess K (Mateos et al., 2010). Alfalfa hay is rich in calcium: this may be an advantage during the growth period but it should be limited or avoided in adult rabbits (Lowe, 2010). Alfalfa is also an excellent source of most of B vitamins, carotene, E vitamin and K vitamin (Mateos et al., 2010).

High levels of alfalfa hay (88% and 96%) decreased rabbit mortality by 13.6% and 10.3% respectively (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998)."

===Red Clover Hay===
Average
*Protein :% DM 18.7
*Fiber :% DM 27.4
*Carbohydrates :% DM 13

https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246
"Red clover hay introduced at up to 30% in balanced diets in place of alfalfa meal (0, 33, 66 or 100% replacement) did not alter growth, digestibility and mortality (Grandi et al., 1988), indicating that red clover hay could be used safely in complete diets for rabbit feeding."

===Oat forage ===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500 Avena sativa L.] [Poaceae]

Average
*Protein :% DM 9.1
*Fiber :% DM 34.0
*Carbohydrates :% DM 17.7

=== Grass Hay ===

Catch all: Grass hay comes from a variety of sources timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, and bermudagrass. It contains lower levels of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and minerals than legume hay. Grass hay is very high in fiber. Because grass hay contains fewer nutrients, it may be necessary to supplement your livestock’s diet to ensure its nutritional needs are being met.
*Protein :% DM
*Fiber :% DM
*Carbohydrates :% DM

===Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===
Legume and grass hay blends offer the best of both worlds and help bring nutritional balance to hay. Not only do these mixes provide a more well-rounded diet, but growing them together often
produces more forage than growing a legume or grass alone. When considering establishing a legume/grass hayfield, aim for a field containing around 1/3 grass to 2/3 legume. There are several
excellent combinations to plant. Some of the more popular combinations are orchardgrass/alfalfa and tall fescue/alfalfa. These mixed hays are readily eaten and healthy for all types of livestock.
[https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:~:text=Grass%20hay%20also%20comes%20from,is%20very%20high%20in%20fiber. hay]
*Protein :% DM
*Fiber :% DM
*Carbohydrates :% DM

===Bermuda grass ===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471 Cynodon dactylon Pers.] [Poaceae]

*Protein :% DM 9.8
*Fiber :% DM 31.3
*Carbohydrates :% DM 0.8

==hay videos==

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?_t=8VSUBshbIxG&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?_t=8VSUCWs9s55&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?_t=8VSUDNJgg15&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?_t=8VSUKkABG1b&_r=1

== Quick links to Hay Resources ==
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886 Timothy ]

[https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis Understanding a Hay Analysis]

[https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf Selecting Hay for Your Horse ]
Lori K. Warren, PhD, PAS Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida

[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/ Shape Variation in the Craniomandibular System and Prevalence of Dental Problems in Domestic Rabbits: A Case Study in Evolutionary Veterinary Science]
Vet Sci. 2017 Mar; 4(1): 5. Published online 2017 Jan 24. doi: 10.3390/vetsci4010005 PMCID: PMC5606619 PMID: 29056664

[https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/ List of hay found in US]

[https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages Differences between Grass and Legume forages]

[https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/ All Hay Is Not Equal: Choose Your Livestock’s Carefully]

=Rabbit Snacks and Treats =

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Recipes_to_Make_Treats_For_Rabbits Recipe page:]

=Debunked Studies whose info is still used as "evidence" for House Rabbit society Propaganda:=

[https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2041027&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ Preference of rabbits for drinking from open dishes versus nipple drinkers ]
Tschudin, A; Clauss, M; Codron, D; Hatt, J-M.The Veterinary Record; London Vol. 168, Iss. 7, (Feb 19, 2011): 190.

This study was widely discredited, and removed from ResearchGate, and PubMed , becuse the sample size was 12 dwarf rabbits total. Not large enough sample to gather any conclusive evidence.

Also questionable Sources on the House Rabbit society care pages House Rabbit Society cites three sources for their information at the bottom of their care page, they cite zero studies, and zero research, you are expected to take what they post as gospel with no reviewable sources to back it up. it is there for not academic but a op-ed opinion piece. :

*Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
*Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health
*Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison ( 2002-2010 National Board of Directors, House Rabbit Society (Richmond CA) 
https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan_Smith_CV.pdf

Dr. Susan Smith has been invited to speak at numerous HRS conventions. She has also written several opinion articles for laypeople. However, Dr. Smith has not published any research studies involving rabbits, peer-reviewed papers on rabbits, or sponsored rabbit-related research. In fact, all of her rabbit-related activities are solely in her capacity as a member of the House Rabbit Society board. The society appears to be using Dr. Smith's doctorate to lend authority to its opinions, but not to support those opinions with any empirical evidence. This raises the question of whether the HRS is truly an independent organization or whether it is a front for activist interests.

Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health , VP of Technical Services and Research, Oxbow Animal Health 
He was part of the study that tested , The Effect of Feed Form on Diet Digestibility and Cecal Parameters in Rabbits
December 2017Animals 7(12):95 DOI:10.3390/ani7120095 [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593_The_Effect_of_Feed_Form_on_Diet_Digestibility_and_Cecal_Parameters_in_Rabbits] . This study had a total sample size of 15 new Zealand Rabbits. Broken into three groups of five Rabbits. "Rabbits were placed in individual cages with ad libitum access to water and food for 45 days acclimation followed by 30 days experimental period."

"Simple Summary: In addition to hay or forage in the diet pet rabbits are commonly fed a supplementary food as a muesli (granular mix), pellets, or extruded croquettes. This study aimed to determine if form of this supplementary
diet (pelleted vs. extruded) or composition (muesli) had an effect on the diets total tract digestibility and cecal fermentation patterns. Rabbits had slightly higher intake when fed extruded and pelleted diets compared to muesli.
Digestibility results were inconsistent between estimation methods. The extruded diet was more digestible than pelleted according to the total collection digestibility method, but according to internal marker acid insoluble ash
 The pelleted diet was the most digestible. Both the extruded and pelleted diet had similar fermentation patterns, with lower cecal pH and greater proportions of butyrate. Our findings suggest that diet composition, rather
than form, may have a greater impact on nutrient utilization by rabbits "

The pellet used was also only 14% protein. and the sample size was tiny.

Gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology of select exotic companion mammals https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24767739/ [https://books.google.com/books?id=M8WLAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA165&lpg=PA165&dq=Gastrointestinal%20Anatomy%20and%20Physiology%20of%20Select%20Exotic%20Companion%20Mammals&source=bl&ots=tlLl8zcfAn&sig=ACfU3U2IPejsgPTujD2FsbzQydT4JajJTQ&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjiyr_CxKH2AhWxlIkEHYINBmkQ6AF6BAgdEAI&fbclid=IwAR1IGYOezqmKbJ6vTjq52Ud8SlbBbALeUTN5UY_-xQeuV4OeoLuG1yRird8#v=onepage&q=Gastrointestinal%20Anatomy%20and%20Physiology%20of%20Select%20Exotic%20Companion%20Mammals&f=false good breakdown of the mechanic of digestion but has no info regarding actual nutrient requirements ]
by M Kohles · 2014

note: study on this topic is represented above that shows the gut bacteria and digestion is different between Rabbit and Cavy.

Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

Gastrointestinal disease in ferrets and rabbits (Proceedings)
August 1, 2011 Peter G. Fisher, DVM
https://www.dvm360.com/view/gastrointestinal-disease-ferrets-and-rabbits-proceedings
it covers diseases of gastrointestinal tract, and what parasites and infection commonly cause bloat, and not diet.

and the 2 other linked opinion pieces read as a oxbow marketing advertisement. even naming oxbow by name.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/rabbit-medicine-overview-proceedings
Notice how the nutrition section has ZERO links back to ANY supporting research articles yet all other sections have multiple sources cites to support the text.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/thinking-adding-exotic-mammals-your-case-load-equipment-needs-proceedings
This opinion piece reads like commercial for oxbow.

I have reviewed the sources cited in the House Rabbit Society Article on nutrition. Unfortunately, two of the veterinarians they cite, Dr. Peter G. Fisher and Dr. Micah Kohles, do not appear to have any studies or research that support the claims in the Feeding article. Their only support comes from opinion articles that lack supporting research. In fact, the actual studies I have found by these veterinarians provide a more compelling argument for feeding a complete and balanced pellet over "salads" that are low in fiber and high in fermentable carbs, which according to one of their studies, can cause appendix damage. Dr. Susan Smith has no rabbit research in her portfolio, and her only connection to rabbits is that she served on the House Rabbit Society board and repeated the talking points she was given to enhance the House Rabbit Society's credibility. I find it very disappointing that the House Rabbit Society would promote such a misleading article, and I would not recommend it as a reliable source of information on rabbit nutrition.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834_NUTRITIVE_VALUE_OF_SAWDUST

Pine Sawdust:
CP content varied from 1.8 to 3.5 g/100g,
CF content varied from 39.5 to 74.0 g/100g

Timothy Hay
CP content 3% g/100g
CF content 28% g/100g

==Feed Related Studies==

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Researchlinks#REFLECTIONS_ON_RABBIT_NUTRITION_WITH_A_SPECIAL_EMPHASIS_ON_FEED_INGREDIENTS_UTILIZATION Research Links ]

[https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding Rabbit Tracks: Feeds and Feeding April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension] 
Received: 23 May 2021 / Revised: 12 July 2021 / Accepted: 12 July 2021 / Published: 14 July 2021

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health] 
August 2013

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Effects of Rocket Seed Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, and Their Mixture on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Digestibility, Redox Status, and Meat Fatty Acid Profile of Growing Rabbits] 
April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION RECENT RESEARCH ADVANCES IN RABBIT NUTRITION] 
December 2000

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization Reflections on rabbit nutrition with a special emphasis on feed ingredients utilization] 
January 2004

Feed related

Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition
[https://www.academia.edu/8592261/Nutrition_of_the_Rabbit_Second_Edition?email_work_card=title Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition]
Mohammad Rifky

rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding

Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health==
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health

https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION

https://www.vetfolio.com/learn/article/nutrition-know-how-pet-rabbit-nutrition

General Feed Supplements

EFFECT OF DIETARY SELENIUM ENRICHED MICRO-ALGAE SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANTI- OXIDATIVE STATUS OF RABBITS UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IN SUMMER SEASON" by mohamed basyony===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/QllhK1c5L1FDbkFwNEdTNkY4UDI3QnpOTGlCSTRtQ0lNd1V5QTBKVWk2RT0tLXVVQjVtOEVNUm9ZQkIzOEZmY3orSWc9PQ==--c79ce43255800522b842d0c8be4f1a102ba46aaf/t/sPPdN-Qp4b4Q1-bhRvi1/resource/work/21619748/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_SELENIUM_ENRICHED_MICRO_ALGAE_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_AND_ANTI_OXIDATIVE_STATUS_OF_RABBITS_UNDER_HIGH_AMBIENT_TEMPERATURE_IN_SUMMER_SEASON?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Rk9LdEk3cUt6aDQwdEUvK0dPaHhvUkRVRk5iUzdlV05WelVvS3prZkJGdz0tLWZZRFZWUGN3N2ZNTTBFOU4zRElqQ0E9PQ==--bd7de4edfce98920e93a0b1c5d01a3591f51cc78/t/sPPdN-Qdcm7Pe-p67QM/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Effect of Zinc Supplementation on some Physiological and Growth Traits in Local Male Rabbit" by World's Veterinary Journal Editor===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UzR2b3BhSVl6QjFMeTk5bjR1dXQxYTNhZXBwQUh2UncxdFNBUVVjZkRoMD0tLTIrY1NFWVBnU05mWnNwZlFPUTlrM3c9PQ==--7ad74ccf2d833f46a06ba9dcf8a6f6d63038c707/t/sPPdN-QfnHV4z-kQ1wm/resource/work/32956665/Effect_of_Zinc_Supplementation_on_some_Physiological_and_Growth_Traits_in_Local_Male_Rabbit?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 1. Response of Growing Rabbits to DietsHamed A.A. Omer, AbdEl-Maged A. Abedo, Sawsan M. Ahmed, Azza M.M. Badrand Mervat S.M. HasaninLife Science..." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEd0VnRmek51ZDdkNlJBSVhaUlBmV1F1ekFPRUdKTUR3RjczdnVCVSs3MD0tLW1WVGgvc3M2aTdFUURKV2MwOXAwQ3c9PQ==--8aaaec6b132b8e0db8dc46fab39fe4e45b811b1b/t/sPPdN-Qgz1jJD-HxeW0/resource/work/8539516/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_1_Response_of_Growing_Rabbits_to_DietsHamed_A_A_Omer_AbdEl_Maged_A_Abedo_Sawsan_M_Ahmed_Azza_M_M_Badrand_Mervat_S_M_HasaninLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_4_?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 2. Influence of Flaxseeds Levels Supplementations on Blood Constituents, Carcass Characteristics and Fatty Acids Profile." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UThubG0wTEgrc1BKeEFnT3pycEF1OUxwVHZ6S1RGcVd1SkErVThPQnZqMD0tLXV5ZW5LVitIT0NhdDYvZnFuVWJlRlE9PQ==--4d0a1cc52d355dfd197363aa7fa6dc86b45cdf4a/t/sPPdN-QgG9ADH-bbjVAv/resource/work/12250987/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_2_Influence_of_Flaxseeds_Levels_Supplementations_on_Blood_Constituents_Carcass_Characteristics_and_Fatty_Acids_Profile?email_work_card=title

Agronomy: "Growth Performance and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients of Weaned Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Forms of Cocoa Pod Husk Meal" by Asian Online Journal Publishing Group===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L3IzQTZDNUVZWUF2NEwvZDV1Wkp0ZU52TU1meHJIY1dXYkt3UXU4T3E5UT0tLUl3SW9lQ0RZU3NhMjAwNjhIWWY3Y3c9PQ==--a3f206fa63664368e8bfde6eebd8f9470a3bdb2a/t/sPPdN-QpF3kHw-bqigTi/resource/work/35848207/Growth_Performance_and_Apparent_Nutrient_Digestibility_Coefficients_of_Weaned_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Forms_of_Cocoa_Pod_Husk_Meal?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF CHAMOMILE FLOWERS AS FEED ADDITIVE ON SOME BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS FOR GROWING RABBITS" by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YjZsSmVsM3AxM2F4enBmNkU5KzRuTVo2cFJKdUlDY3hVMGJSMDVRS2pwND0tLVN1V3FvTHc5MnI0NXFVbjBuQ1hnYUE9PQ==--3b3eadef9f6ebfe96bfa15eea7a3dfae8e494a31/t/sPPdN-Qpjmi1D-bdz6oo/resource/work/9329672/EFFECT_OF_CHAMOMILE_FLOWERS_AS_FEED_ADDITIVE_ON_SOME_BIOLOGICAL_PARAMETERS_FOR_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

The Nutritive Value of Zornia glochidiata as a Non-conventional Feedstuff in Rabbit in Sokoto, Nigeria" by Ndudim Ogo===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aUFMWjBISEJNMHVKZ080NjR5TGErcXpJRzJMelp0U0JtamU4Y2lvRFpJUT0tLVA2dEFmL0hEcGg0SFV2TG1teVlFaWc9PQ==--622e2baee790f8efb1144e9240ed1ada4b3fe5c8/t/sPPdN-QnogdXn-bc1HPX/resource/work/18711695/The_Nutritive_Value_of_Zornia_glochidiata_as_a_Non_conventional_Feedstuff_in_Rabbit_in_Sokoto_Nigeria?email_work_card=title

Performance of rabbits fed diets with varying concentrate and fodder ratio in north eastern region of Tripura" by Asit Chakrabarti===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MGIycnE2am5lK09CbkEzWnluM1JtaFFjNlk0UVUxSGpQTXNWTE1hS2VYZz0tLWsrdFc5bElVOHcyYmVzWkhrQmRSMVE9PQ==--5b5a30c634eeea396188f5f96e29e2476dd5cdd6/t/sPPdN-QmEt7ei-AvMTB/resource/work/39725417/Performance_of_rabbits_fed_diets_with_varying_concentrate_and_fodder_ratio_in_north_eastern_region_of_Tripura?email_work_card=title

Various Legume as feed and feed supplements

Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits" by Donald Chisowa===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SWR6b1dLWFNBb3pxbFh3VXNCUmxjWnFuV0hac1JuMnhjVERWUzh3djYwOD0tLTdwcXJ2VmJ1UTFTa0p5TzBCUFdlb1E9PQ==--e17ca3b4f9f183f27b84e94a67e75efe6ebf36f4/t/sPPdN-QoQRVXM-WNtJE/resource/work/11351185/Evaluation_of_soybean_Glycine_max_cowpea_Vigna_unguiculata_and_pigeon_pea_Cajanus_cajan_as_sole_sources_of_proteins_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Hamed A.A Omerand Azza M.M. Badr.Growth Performance of New Zealand White Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Pea StrawLife Science Journal 2013;10(2)" by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/U2pZNE5LYmdLY2NleXppeDhCb2owd2YxZ0FDNWJub2IzNmNsM0ZCNlpIQT0tLU51UHBhN3JGQ0ZmOWJYclJTdWRKNkE9PQ==--429eb979b597c8159c3230f2bb5e087f0b6765ca/t/sPPdN-QcSQb5L-bxcsdM/resource/work/8539260/Hamed_A_A_Omerand_Azza_M_M_Badr_Growth_Performance_of_New_Zealand_White_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Levels_of_Pea_StrawLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_2_?email_work_card=title

Effect of Chemical Composition of Alfalfa Hay on Several . Digestive Measurements in Growing Rabbits" by Rosa Carabaño===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/VldVYTkrN3FQVmVjZzBlT0tPSXFNN3lJWks5a0JDbSs2Nm0vWk5yNTAvZz0tLThQaE85MTc3Vlo2YmdwVSsrTFpJdWc9PQ==--90cc8df7accb7e7757b217e27490b7698e7cf5a0/t/sPPdN-Qa9cnMB-B2d8N/resource/work/24812249/Effect_of_Chemical_Composition_of_Alfalfa_Hay_on_Several_Digestive_Measurements_in_Growing_Rabbits?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF FEEDING OLIVE CAKE SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT BENTONITE ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aGhEa0Y3MXpTUm9QK0g4NS8rbGVZTmwyL3Q2Wmd1bFh0VzhhYTFkR1lGTT0tLWdvNlFRT0hhcEowVy9ESGpQTFplTHc9PQ==--e954ae63b78666fe8b6026136d1caa841a3244e7/t/sPPdN-QaECJQk-baz1zi/resource/work/36496594/EFFECT_OF_FEEDING_OLIVE_CAKE_SUPPLEMENTED_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_BENTONITE_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BLOOD COMPONENTS AND SLAUGHTER TRAITS OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE MALE GROWING RABBITS AS AFFECTED BY DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH CALCIUM, SODIUM OR POTASSIUM, IN SUB-TROPICAL EGYPT" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat== https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SU9MMGRUSEhLWGlNT20zaXdkTXEyUjJYYWlFaDI2RHRqNnZtYXF1Z1d6WT0tLUphSHIxRlRRbUZQQituR25Gc0dkK2c9PQ==--841cf9236890a2487e4a977273720546ef9a32dc/t/sPPdN-QaqqFUB-nAEXb/resource/work/12692254/GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_BLOOD_COMPONENTS_AND_SLAUGHTER_TRAITS_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_MALE_GROWING_RABBITS_AS_AFFECTED_BY_DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTATION_WITH_CALCIUM_SODIUM_OR_POTASSIUM_IN_SUB_TROPICAL_EGYPT?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/NHFKYlphcXg4VWNzZGVkSDVmVVFXYXlqOCtHSEVrd3RLN0NQN2xDZFZwYz0tLVVFcFpIZE9zV3pEWWRkU1Z5N09JcUE9PQ==--b6e433ce56d2392549ee5b405d73fa8c16e303ff/t/sPPdN-QaifWu2-bfmPBZ/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Influence of dietary benzoic acid addition on nutrient digestibility and selected biochemical parameters in fattening rabbits" by K. Fegeros==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/b2lheWJTUWNnUEVBTG5Ddm1YamhzSDQySGNZd0k1TVV1aE1ldmFVR1RGVT0tLUNLSk5MYmlvYW1kN29STUUzSCtPelE9PQ==--917462902d2600191af2d70536465a40bd316be4/t/sPPdN-QepHj7D-VtVZd/resource/work/30474431/Influence_of_dietary_benzoic_acid_addition_on_nutrient_digestibility_and_selected_biochemical_parameters_in_fattening_rabbits?email_work_card=title

COMMERCIAL ENZYMES

EFFECT OF USING COMMERCIAL ENZYMES TO IMPROVE DIETS CONTAINED PEANUT HAY ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by Fathy Atta===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OUJlVHFVTHozWlFQYW9idGdPUmJSUHJFZElZdGRXR3Fpc04rZU41N1IrZz0tLXlWY2FhdldaTll1Y1AwbEpxczAxbXc9PQ==--e16599d129e829b7da7a4ca4d6c379ce72e7532b/t/sPPdN-QeUbKK9-bxtmgk/resource/work/7230460/EFFECT_OF_USING_COMMERCIAL_ENZYMES_TO_IMPROVE_DIETS_CONTAINED_PEANUT_HAY_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

RESPONSE OF GROWING RABBITS TO DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF WHEAT SCREENING BY-PRODUCT WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION " by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bGpGeEkrdzZ3NE5PU2hKYUNZdmRQN1JMYjdqMU51RGc0clRmTStHTVhwbz0tLTF5bnhHY0V1TUxLNnZrR1N1WmdmVVE9PQ==--e42c63ee99bdc464d47fa63c8decab24ae97b4fb/t/sPPdN-Qc5erQc-bhct0a/resource/work/5108323/RESPONSE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_TO_DIETS_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_WHEAT_SCREENING_BY_PRODUCT_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_ENZYME_SUPPLEMENTATION?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF DIETARY CORN COBS AND ENZYMES SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWING RABBITS PERFORMANCE===
https://www.academia.edu/8019560/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_CORN_COBS_AND_ENZYMES_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWING_RABBITS_PERFORMANCE?email_work_card=title
Ibrahim abaza

EFFECT OF ENZYMES AND PROBIOTIC MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION TO THE DIET OF GROWING FEMALE RABBITS ON PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CRITERIA" by Mohamed El-Sagheer===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bFNjQ1hweHdXMU5jZStuaTVwR0FNMEl2S2FHYzNLa2twOExReE9oeU9OVT0tLUQ5RXdoNElpYzlpUGJCK0hmMnhseVE9PQ==--05cb9b9a585550db2c1c6d59abe3c29322dc3ee1/t/sPPdN-QaMLryt-K4jEZ/resource/work/11938475/EFFECT_OF_ENZYMES_AND_PROBIOTIC_MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION_TO_THE_DIET_OF_GROWING_FEMALE_RABBITS_ON_PERFORMANCE_AND_CARCASS_CRITERIA?email_work_card=title

REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION
[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION]
" REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION LEBAS F. Cuniculture, 87a Chemin de Lassère, 31450 Corronsac, France lebas@cuniculture.info ABSTRACT In this invited communication the author proposes a list of nutritional recommendations for rabbits of different categories: growing from 18 to 42 days, from 42 to 80 days, for breeding does according to productivity (40-50 kits weaned per doe/year or more than 50) and for a single diet suitable for all rabbits. Recommendations taking account the last published data, are divided in 2 groups. The first corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to feed efficiency: digestible energy, crude and digestible protein, amino acids, minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins. The second group corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to nutritive security and digestive health: different fibre components (lignins, cellulose, hemicelluloses) and their equilibrium, starch and water soluble vitamins. In a second part, 387 papers published during the last 30 years on raw material utilisation in rabbit feeding were analysed. In a total of 14 tables, the 542 corresponding experiments were summarised each by the identification of the raw material, by the highest level of incorporation used in the experiment, by the highest acceptable level, by the main ingredient(s) replaced by the raw material studied, and finally by the authors reference. Raw materials studied were those used in temperate as well as in tropical countries. The raw material were grouped according to the following categories : raw material used as single food (24 experiments), cereals and by-products (43 exp.), other carbohydrates source of energy (62 exp.), fats (27 exp.), full-fat oleaginous grains (10 exp.), oil cakes and meals (43 exp.), proteic seeds such peas or beans (42 exp.), miscellaneous sources of protein such yeast or leaf protein (18 exp.), animal products (21 exp.), non-protein nitrogen source such urea (9 exp.), forages (157 exp.), cereal straws, alkali treated or not (33 exp.), cover or parts of dried grains source of fibre such stalks, hulls or cobs (19 exp.) and industrial by-products usable as fibre source (51 exp.). Key words: nutritional recommendations, raw materials, data basis"

Effect of energy restriction in interaction with genotype on the performance of growing rabbits: II. Carcass traits and meat quality" by Z. Szendrő==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/ZTN1b3FROWR1aUZhWGM1Q0FJRk1XcWpSajlIRDdGUlZUakRXc21FRmxjaz0tLVNIdE1PS3ZtdnZuR1hWWm82UDg3U3c9PQ==--669990dfc647432f898e381ed8b9b41de23c78aa/t/sPPdN-QmqdKDg-bmjCCY/resource/work/13592540/Effect_of_energy_restriction_in_interaction_with_genotype_on_the_performance_of_growing_rabbits_II_Carcass_traits_and_meat_quality?email_work_card=title

Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by hadil samy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bDBFWG8wcXl1MlBnSjlyenBnUkhKL2FZTmVnYmtyVW9vbThrWGNwaERMOD0tLXY4WWFsRlpHU0FKWVRTRTlLTmRCRnc9PQ==--6433eef0d04443b5c7e946a1c73ae59282239da3/t/sPPdN-Qmh7hzB-insEp/resource/work/27823893/Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

DOI: Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by Fathy Abdel-Fattah==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L2g5dmN3WEx4d01hb3JHanJkL1pUQXhZSXBMd3JwczQyVGlGeUhaakFxcz0tLUFPYUloZy9HZnAzMU1wMklmcDUxcEE9PQ==--cf05b9d08abd2994dce26ca3b775a8a327b9c34f/t/sPPdN-QqEo2CE-fAfA5/resource/work/38091315/DOI_Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

INCLUSION OF DRIED AGRO-INDUSTRIAL STRAWBERRY BY- PRODUCTS IN GROWING RABBIT DIETS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/N0V6STlENndzVWprbmthVTJGZEtGcUVha0RzZ2dCWm5sVFZXSFI5VFRPOD0tLWMxRjUyRHpHZ2pyU0l3SGkyR2JXVGc9PQ==--bdf935bf33d5e21673da61a284addd06919e86b9/t/sPPdN-QhFdf7T-VUozM/resource/work/36496618/INCLUSION_OF_DRIED_AGRO_INDUSTRIAL_STRAWBERRY_BY_PRODUCTS_IN_GROWING_RABBIT_DIETS?email_work_card=title

Rabbit’s performance, health and meat quality improvement by phyto-additives" by Attawit Kovitvadhi==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bi8vWGZUcnVHM00zaDJSRklnOWVsV1VtMjlFQjFnQVNDN3VOUXJEQ3Z4Yz0tLXI0MndMN2J3UE8xZkNMbG5yV21YMmc9PQ==--c03893c550d192819f3dde5b88cb43c0251cfc1e/t/sPPdN-QqNsCkH-0zMCL/resource/work/19803703/Rabbit_s_performance_health_and_meat_quality_improvement_by_phyto_additives?email_work_card=title

PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIET CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TOMATO POMACE" by Mahmoud Elazab==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/eDNRMFl1YXdrb2ZTMGdxUkJTYkRTWDNzYkJoVHRVN2locDY1c3FjT3ZCcz0tLTB0R3RFeXZLNGduVlQvN2VQQ1ZaL3c9PQ==--b8af070801c6d13d7041b1060baf6b0b2f86db3f/t/sPPdN-QhbGBew-kbnLX/resource/work/35484427/PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_FED_DIET_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_TOMATO_POMACE?email_work_card=title

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/dVhDUDgwSXFFTHo0UVBldFNXOHFQVkhsbFZnVEphQm50U1FtK1BNc2JIRT0tLXZOQUhpcFFDZ2czSndMaXZDNGVWTVE9PQ==--3f889f2926497df89c9685f9795796f88b4c76c3/t/sPPdN-Qg4y1P2-UzbBy/resource/work/21181061/Growth_performance_carcass_quality_biochemical_and_haematological_traits_and_immune_response_of_growing_rabbits_as_affected_by_different_growth_promoters?email_work_card=title
Growth performance, carcass quality, biochemical and haematological traits and immune response of growing rabbits as affected by different growth promoters" by Youssef Attia]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/d1NVejZIa0VOYm5mUit1dG9xTVdkZ1VHOTB0QUM4aGhHS2xaTVQvcklSTT0tLS9zbXdWNDdBcXBnZFhySTA2Slhxdnc9PQ==--5649e5cdede150483096497d7b424e160c3a414a/t/sPPdN-QdV9eNq-9MtFF/resource/work/36496604/EVALUATION_OF_EGYPTIAN_TREE_WILLOW_Salix_safsafs_LEAVES_AND_ITS_FEEDING_AFFECT_ON_PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_RABBITS?email_work_card=title EVALUATION OF EGYPTIAN TREE WILLOW (Salix safsafs) LEAVES AND ITS FEEDING AFFECT ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBITS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEhlWjJsMlJyc3JCNDNVUlJUK05CaHR2V1NoYWMwVStxTlIrUWloZjEvbz0tLVZEdkJxZVYrc00zYm5aWE5kT0NTTEE9PQ==--b040db53fb351cf834d73ebd3dada957c02e4c95/t/sPPdN-Qfu5LUn-617sS/resource/work/36496613/UTILIZATION_OF_Ziziphus_spina_christi_LEAVES_AS_A_NATURAL_GROWTH_PROMOTER_IN_RABBITS_RATIONS?email_work_card=title UTILIZATION OF Ziziphus spina-christi LEAVES AS A NATURAL GROWTH PROMOTER IN RABBIT'S RATIONS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MzFNWE5hWklnWXhlcStJNExWNjBvcEhudjN1dTZNaVVjdzlnZGpyNVZnMD0tLU4veFVJRldVSElzRy9oN0k2U0tWa1E9PQ==--7562f212c75e4f5a0c8e066594e00fd0239031f2/t/sPPdN-QdyLbjc-qbmgV/resource/work/31846675/Effect_of_replacement_of_berseem_Trifolium_alexandrinum_L_hay_by_berseem_silage_on_performance_of_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title Effect of replacement of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) hay by berseem silage on performance of growing rabbits" by Hamed Gaafar]

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Oil added to feed]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YmlrSzU4SGRBZUJCbGViT0xjNDBZMk0vUGpVTzlFZnlWNjBtbFNSSGVMUT0tLWFlWGtLQVQycjFDSlU3ZmhTcURHdnc9PQ==--b809c3d7d0c75ba0dc95475b2ed5ba659e21e9b8/t/sPPdN-Qe1mzqP-AJQtS/resource/work/12250896/Improving_the_Utilization_of_Rabbit_Diets_Containing_Vegetable_Oil_by_Using_Fennel_Foeniculum_vulgare_And_Oregano_Origanum_vulgare_L_as_Feed_Additives?email_work_card=title Improving the Utilization of Rabbit Diets Containing Vegetable Oil by Using Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) And Oregano (Origanum vulgare L) as Feed Additives" by dr.azza badr]

Study of the effect of grape seed extract as a natural antioxidant on the performance of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits during summer season in Egypt Fawzia A. Hassan1; Khalid M. Mahrose2 and Mohamed Basyony3" by mohamed basyony
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Z0t1TlpMWlo4TjlkRmtURzkxY01MeWZMcEd2SmczNURyUE1GNm10Sy9jaz0tLWNBZ3pLMVZ6RDJ6dnJzeEhsRitsaGc9PQ==--3ea66988e3650ec90c1f8439baede86ffca6bf57/t/sPPdN-QdrCvu9-byFUwt/resource/work/21659194/Study_of_the_effect_of_grape_seed_extract_as_a_natural_antioxidant_on_the_performance_of_New_Zealand_White_NZW_rabbits_during_summer_season_in_Egypt_Fawzia_A_Hassan1_Khalid_M_Mahrose2_and_Mohamed_Basyony3?email_work_card=title

==notes to be incorporated ==

Rabbit Feeding Guide

2025-08-11T23:51:00Z

BCAdmin: /* Other Feed Additives */

= Introduction =

If you search online, you’ll repeatedly find the claim that rabbits should have diets consisting of 80% hay or even an all-hay diet. This recommendation largely originates from the House Rabbit Society (HRS), an extreme animal rights organization that has promoted this 80% hay diet and associated messaging for decades. Oxbow Animal Health, a major supplier of rabbit food, partners with HRS and provides funding, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

For over 20 years, the House Rabbit Society has engaged with soon-to-be exotic animal veterinarians (DVMs), offering support to help them start their practices focused on rabbits. This relationship has resulted in many veterinarians adopting HRS-influenced care practices, which include the widely promoted 80% hay diet. Consequently, this diet recommendation has become entrenched despite significant flaws.

If you review rabbit care guidelines from major universities such as Purdue, UC Davis, Colorado State University, and Washington State University, you’ll notice HRS’s influence in their citations and fine print. This is reflected in feeding recommendations on Oxbow product packaging, which dominate the pet rabbit market. The resulting proliferation of this diet advice has perpetuated misinformation.

An important historical note: in the 1990s, the House Rabbit Society conflated care advice for rabbits and cavies (guinea pigs), even suggesting they could share diets and housing. When it became clear that cavies and rabbits can transmit diseases to each other , HRS retracted the cohabitation advice—but never revisited or corrected their dietary stance for rabbits.

Further scrutiny reveals that much of the 80% hay diet recommendation traces back to a single book co-authored by Susan Brown and Jeff Jenkins titled *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets* (1993). This book, difficult to obtain today, was frequently cited by HRS and related groups as a definitive source for the hay-first diet. However, more recent research by F. Lebas and others has discredited the outdated nutritional guidance in this book. The diet promoted therein fails to meet the minimum nutritional requirements for maintaining healthy rabbits.

Therefore, the House Rabbit Society is not a reliable source for rabbit care information. Their recommendations are often outdated or inaccurate and don’t always reflect current research. For trustworthy guidance, consult the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), the World Rabbit Congress, or reputable breeders ' organizations with access to the latest research and expertise.

One fundamental reason rabbits and cavies require different diets is their distinct gut microbiota, despite some anatomical similarities. A 2017 study by Crowley et al. using next-generation sequencing highlighted significant differences in the microbial populations between rabbits and guinea pigs, confirming that their digestive mechanisms differ substantially.

Furthermore, ARBA care guides, developed by a panel of veterinarians, recommend diets where pellets form the majority component, not hay. Supporting this, research comparing wild and domestic rabbits’ dental and digestive health found that hay is nutritionally poor and difficult to chew, often leading to malocclusion and periodontal disease caused by hay getting trapped between teeth. Wild rabbits are selective feeders, preferring high-nutrition fresh forage and resorting to dried grasses or hay only during starvation or severe winter conditions to survive.

== References ==
* Crowley EJ, King JM, Wilkinson T, Worgan HJ, Huson KM, Rose MT, McEwan NR. (2017). Comparison of the microbial population in rabbits and guinea pigs by next-generation sequencing. PLoS ONE 12(2): e0165779. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0165779
* Jenkins J., Brown S. (1993). *A Practitioner’s Guide to Rabbits and Ferrets*. [Publisher info if available]
* [Link to ARBA Care Guides]
* [Link to World Rabbit Congress resources]

=Pellet Feeding Recommendations=

[[File:RabbitFeeding-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Rabbits do best on a Complete Balanced Alfalfa Based Pellet. 16% protein, 15-20% Fiber.]]ARBA recommends feeding a completely balanced pellet as the main source of nutrition. The rule of thumb for selecting complete pellets for your rabbit should start with a baseline of 16% protein, 18% fiber, and grass or legume as the first ingredient. Typically feed instructions will suggest you feed a measured amount to most adult rabbits rationed twice a day. Total daily intake should equal 1oz of pellet per lb of ideal adult body weight. Rabbits are crepuscular animals, active at dusk and dawn with a rest and digestion period during the day. ie:" A 10lb adult rabbit would receive 5oz of pellets in the morning and 5oz pellets at night.

A completely balanced Pellet should make up between 80% and 100% of a rabbit's diet.

Fresh veg should be limited to no more then 1 or 2 tablespoons total a day, and it is best to use these fresh plants in small quantities for their medicinal properties, or as a supplement than as a main nutrient source becuse they can unbalance the complete nutrition already in your pellet. Too much fresh fruit or vegetable matter can kill your rabbit by unbalancing their delicate hindgut functionality throwing them into a bacterial overload which leads to bloat and GI stasis.

===Why is Oxbow not recommended?===

Oxbow lacks sufficient protein content and contains too much fiber. While rabbits that consume this feed may survive, they will not be healthy. The situation is analogous to a human diet consisting solely of junk food. While such a diet may sustain life, it is not conducive to optimal health. Rabbits require a minimum of 14%(DE) digestible protein energy to maintain their condition. This translates to a feed with a dry matter of 16%(DM) protein. A feed containing 14%(DM) dry matter protein provides only 12%(DE) digestible protein, which is sufficient to sustain a rabbit but not enough to build new hair and muscle. Rabbits fed such a diet will exhibit a flabby, wasted appearance and shed constantly. Fiber should not exceed 22% of a rabbit's diet based on a 16%(DM) dry matter feed. Therefore, if the protein content is reduced, the fiber content must be further reduced. For example, an Oxbow formula containing 14%(DM) dry matter protein and 25% fiber will further reduce the bioavailability of essential nutrients, resulting in only 9%(DE) of the protein being available to the rabbit, which can lead to malnutrition. We currently feed ADM Pen Pals 16% because it contains no whole or ground corn and is properly balanced for all life stages. Other suitable feeds include Small World 16% by Manna Pro, Kambalch 16%, Rowe 16%, Hienold Commercial or Wool formula, and Pen Pals 16%. The recommended feed is alfalfa-based with a minimum of 16%(DM) dry matter protein and a fiber content between 15% and 22%. While whole corn should be avoided, corn distillers is acceptable because it contains only the pure protein center, and the carbohydrates and hull have been removed. .

==Nuanced Feeding recommendations :==

===Feeding Nursing and Pregnant Does===

Nursing and Pregnant animals have a higher protein requirement while growing fetal kits. It is recommended that the Doe be kept on a regular feed ration for the first 2 weeks of pregnancy, but the feed should be gradually switched from a 16% maintenance diet to an 18% production diet. When the Does enter the 3rd week of pregnancy feed can be increased. After the Doe gives birth to a successful litter she should be allowed to free feed having a quality 18% pellet in front of her at all time until the kits are weaned, and she may remain on this diet until she has fully regained condition.
Some Feed Additives that are safe and recommended to add to a nursing Does diet to help increase milk production are, Steam Rolled or Old fashioned Oats, Calf Mana, and Black oil sunflower seeds, measured 1/2 to 1 Teaspoon of each mixed into a separate bowl to prevent digging out the feed and wasting pellets.

Other safe supplements are bananas, the fruit only, for pregnant does, and bananas with peel for nursing Does, the size of the chunk should be limited to no more than a penny cut 1 inch thick slice, once a day from a medium-sized banana, extra huge banana limited to 1/2 inch. Bananas are high in Potassium and sugar that can help boost a pregnant animal's nutrient intake during the late stages of kit development. Banana Peels can induce labor/contractions so should not be given until right at or after birth. Another helpful supplement for your pregnant and nursing Doe is Tums, Tums either plain or fruit flavored contain calcium that can help boost milk production, Rabbits can have 1 or 2 a day for the first few days as their milk is first coming in, and 1 a day or every few days can be supplemented as a treat through nursing.

*Foods to avoid in Pregnant and nursing animals :
**Mint and any plants in the mint family, these plants will dry up milk and decrease production. It is fine to give mint to a Doe who has lost her litter and will not be used as a foster, or to one after 8 weeks to help dry her back up for her next breeding.
**Banana Peel should be avoided in pregnant animals, as it can cause contractions, but is safe to give after or during labor.

===Feeding Weanling Rabbits from 8 weeks to 20 weeks===

Animals of this age should be free fed a higher protein (17% to 20%) Complete Pellet since their bodies are growing.

===Feeding Adult Non-producing Rabbits===

Non-producing animals can be fed according to need, Protein between 15% or 17% are acceptable and will suit most animals needs. Make sure the pellet has a minimum of 15% fiber. Non-producing and pet animals can be on a timothy or alfalfa based pellet. Other bases may be available but grass or legume hay-based pellets are preferred. Try to avoid pellets that use grain as a base.

Total daily intake should equal 1oz of pellet per lb of ideal adult body weight. Rabbits are crepuscular animals, active at dusk and dawn with a rest and digestion period during the day. ie:" a 10lb adult rabbit would receive 5oz of pellets in the morning and 5oz pellets at night.

===Conditioning Show Rabbits===

[[File:FINISHING MIX-01.png|300px|thumb|right|Diet can be amended for different life stages and for special conditioning]]

* Coat Finisher supplement high in Vit E and higher fat content, BOS (Black Oil sunflower seed) is frequently used to boost these two items.

* Muscle and flesh Conditioner, Proteins boosters, typically Whey, Rolled Oats and Barley are used to help condition muscle and firmness of flesh.

* Digestive Aid : increases uptake of nutrients. A few common supplements that assist in are Papaya enzyme, which will also help break down ingested wool and fur during shedding season. Fiber in the form of Grass hays , Beet pulp shreds, *keep amounts small high in sugar. Shredded Plain Pumpkin.

= Other Feed Additives =

==Proteins==

While a cheaper maintenance feed can sustain a rabbit on 12%-15% protein for nonproductive animals, a Ration of 16% will give best results on overall health and condition of the Rabbit. It is worth a little extra cost to feed a rabbit a slightly higher protein balanced maintenance feed.

Although protein is an expensive part of the ration, rabbits can be fed higher levels of protein than those required for the type or stage of the rabbit if the ration is adequate in other nutrients. Therefore, it can be easier to use a
single ration for all stages of rabbit production. [https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding Rabbit Tracks: Feeds and Feeding April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension ]

*Corn Distillers: Do not confuse feed corn with corn distillers. Distillers is the pure protein centers of corn after the brewing process eats all the sugars out of it. When the studies on corn started coming out it created a better understanding of how those break down into sugars... and sugars cause bad bacterial gut blooms that cause bloat , GI stasis and death.

*Soybean :
conclusion from this study don't use CowPea, it will destroy the kidneys and New Zealand's absolutely fail on it. Soybean can be used safely as a sole or additive source of proteins .

The results observed in this study indicate the superiority of soybean over pigeon pea and cowpea as sole sources of protein in rabbit rations. The study further demonstrated that pigeon pea was superior to cowpea as a sole source of protein in
rabbit rations. The study has also indicated that even though soybean has been observed to be more effective than pigeon pea and cowpea as a protein supplement, pigeon pea can replace soybean without adversely affecting the performance of
rabbits. Results of this study suggest that the variety of cowpea used in these experiments is not suitable as a sole source of protein in rabbit rations because of its high tannin content.
Donald Chisowa
[https://www.academia.edu/11351185/Evaluation_of_soybean_Glycine_max_cowpea_Vigna_unguiculata_and_pigeon_pea_Cajanus_cajan_as_sole_sources_of_proteins_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits]

==Fat==
*oils
*Black Oil Sunflower seeds

==Carbs==
* [https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Corn Corn*]
**Do not feed whole or cracked corn to rabbits, certain corn by-products and feed derivatives are ok, but not the kernels. Rabbits can not digest the whole or cracked kernels and it will cause a sugar over load in the hind gut leading to bloat and GI stais .**

*Oats
*Beet Pulp Shreds

==Fiber==

The digestion of fibre in the rabbit was subjected to several recent reviews (GIDENNE, 1996;
GIDENNE et al., 1998d; DE BLAS et al., 1999), as the dietary fibre supply is implicated in the
prevention of the digestive disorders (GIDENNE, 1997). However, the favourable effect of fibres with
respect to resistance to pathogenic agents was clearly shown only recently (LICOIS and GIDENNE,
1999). In 2000, the same team has also clearly demonstrated the interaction between the initial
health status of the animal (SPF vs conventional) and the reaction to low fibre feeds: the higher the
initial health status, the lower the digestive disorders frequency (BENNEGADI et al., 2000)
On the other hand, a high fibre supply leads to an energy dilution of the diet. The animal thus
attempts to increase its feed intake to satisfy energetic needs, and the feed conversion is reduced.
When the dietary fibre level is very high (>25% ADF), the animal cannot increase its intake
sufficiently to meet its energetic needs, thus leading to a lower growth rate. 
~ F. Lebas & T. Gidenne «Recent research advances in rabbit nutrition» page 4 

Feeds to increase fiber
*beet Pulp Shreds
*Timothy

Notes to review:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7054611/

https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=pjn.2019.101.108#:~:text=If%20the%20composition%20of%20fiber,stress%2Dinducing%20digestive%20system%20disorders.
"If the composition of fiber feed is not homogenous in terms of particle size (i.e., the feed particles are different sizes), the proportion of the lignin content will be increased. The need for fiber particles in feed increased and was positively correlated with the presence of lignin7. In general, the size of the fiber particles for rabbits ranges from 0.5-1.5 mm before pellets are made. The particle size of the feed affects digestion and is essential for motility in the rabbit gut8. Particle size can cause a decrease in the quality of nutrients and promote stress-inducing digestive system disorders."

"The interaction between the NDF concentration and fiber particle size had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the cumulative mortality of NZW crossbred rabbits from 5-12 weeks of age. The F2P2 and F3P2 treatment combinations showed the lowest mortality rates (0%) (Table 2). The average mortality in all treatment groups up to 12 weeks of age was 19.44%. The results in this study showed that the highest mortality occurred at 8 and 9 weeks of age. The mortality in the F1P2 and F2P3 treatment groups at 9 weeks of age was 18.75% and the total mortality rate in all treatment groups was 6.25% (Table 2). The treatment group with the lowest NDF level (F1) showed the highest mortality rate (14.58%) at 8 weeks of age and the average mortality rate in all NDF feed grade groups was 6.94% (Table 2).

Fiber particle size had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the number of leukocytes, eosinophils and neutrophils in NZW crossbred rabbits that were in the postweaning period. Increases in fiber particle size could increase leukocyte levels from 3.83-6.57×109 dL–1, eosinophil levels from 0.04-0.07×109 L–1 and neutrophil levels from 2.18-3.96×109 L–1 in rabbits in the postweaning period. These values were above the normal standards (Table 2).

The interaction between the NDF level and fiber particle size had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the number of lymphocytes in postweaning period rabbits, with the mean of 1.66×109 L–1, although this value was still within the normal range (0.8-6.5×109 L–1) (Table 2).

The NDF level and fiber particle size each had a significant main effect (p>0.05) on the number of E. coli bacteria in the contents of the caecum, with an average of 3.01×109 CFU mL–1 during the NZW rabbit postweaning period but there was no interaction. Level F1 showed the highest average value of E. coli bacterial contamination at 3.37×109 CFU mL–1. Level P2 showed the lowest average E. coli bacterial contamination value at 2.70×109 CFU mL–1 (Table 3)."
"CONCLUSION
It is concluded that the mortality rate up to the 12th week of development in NZW rabbits was 19.44%. The treatment combinations F3P2 and F2P2 showed the lowest mortality rate (0%), as well as low E. coli infections of 2.55and 2.70×109 CFU mL–1, respectively. This result showed that there was a relationship between mortality and E. coli infection. The feed treatment affected the hematological values of rabbits in the postweaning period. Differences in infection rates and stress in postweaning period rabbits were also observed as a response to differences in feed. This study showed that feed affected mortality, immunity, hematology and stress status of rabbits in the postweaning period. The F3P2 treatment combination was the best feed tested in this study."

==Enzymes==

==Supplements==

=Hay Feeding recommendations and balancing :=

"There is a vast difference in the nutritional value of hay, depending on the type of hay, the quality of forage prior to preparation and the type of and manner of the curing process of hay."
Dr. T.E.Reed, Rabbit Specialist

This is a limited listing of commonly fed Rabbit hays , for a FULL list of forage types please see [https://www.feedipedia.org/] Feedipedia which is an excellent breakdown of advanced nutritional breakdown including granular analysis of each feed type including hays , grasses Legumes forage, and grains. The following is a quick list of various Forages and their nutrient breakdowns.

===Timothy===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886 Phleum pratense L.] [Poaceae]
Average
*Protein :% DM 13.8 <- best case scenario, typically store bought Timothy that has been sitting for months has a protein of between 3%-9%
*Fiber :% DM 31.8
*Carbohydrates :% DM 4.7 -10.9

Rabbits
Timothy hay has long been recommended to provide fibre, in addition to concentrate feeds, in rabbit diets for smallholder rabbit meat production (Cassady et al., 1966; Schlolaut et al., 1995), and more recently for pet rabbit maintenance (McNitt et al., 2013). Contrary to alfalfa hay, timothy hay cannot support maintenance in adults when used as the sole feed (Richards et al., 1962; Uden et al., 1982). However, it has been possible to include timothy hay up to 60 or even 75% in balanced diets without causing health problems (Keener et al., 1958; Uden et al., 1982). The nutritional value of timothy hay for rabbits is not very high. Estimations of the digestible energy content range from 5.8 to 6.2 MJ/kg. Protein digestibility is low: 62% for early cut young timothy grass (crude protein 17% DM) and 42-47% for mature hays (crude protein less than 6% DM) (Voris et al., 1940; Richards et al., 1962). In addition, it must be pointed out that as for most Poaceae the lysine content of timothy protein is very low and covers only 70% of the lysine requirements of growing rabbits. The very low calcium content of timothy hay (0.33% on average) can be advantageous or unfavourable, depending on the calcium content of the other diet ingredients.

===Alfalfa ===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/275 Medicago sativa L.] [Fabaceae]

Average
*Protein :% DM 18.3
*Fiber :% DM 28.6
*Carbohydrates :% DM 4.5

"Alfalfa hay is of utmost importance in rabbit diets (Villamide et al., 2009). Alfalfa hay is highly palatable to rabbits (de Blas et al., 2010). Recommended inclusion levels are not consistent among authors and vary from 20% up to 96%, with a majority of recommendations in the range of 30-40% (de Blas et al., 2010; Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998; Gippert et al., 1988; Harris et al., 1981 and Cheeke et al., 1972 cited by Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa hay is the most widely used fibre source in rabbit diets: it provides long and digestible fibre, thus promoting adequate transit time for the digesta and a balanced growth of the caecal flora (de Blas et al., 2010). Alfalfa hay inclusion decreases caecal pH and favors caecal fermentation (Garcia et al., 2005). Alfalfa hay should be coarsely ground in order to preserve its ballast function and to enhance intestinal motility (Mateos et al., 1989). An excessive substitution of alfalfa hay with highly lignified sources of fibre has deleterious effects on energy digestibility and caecal fermentative activity (Garcia et al., 2000; Garcia et al., 1999); it may hamper average daily gain and feed efficiency (Motta et al., 1996; Parigi-Bini et al., 1980). Substituting short fibre feeds such as paprika meal, sugar beet pulp or soybean hulls for alfalfa had deleterious effects on the performance of fattening, lactating and suckling rabbits. It decreased the weight gains of fattening rabbits by 6%, milk production by 13% and litter weight by 18%. This lower performance was due to lower feed efficiency as the proportion of large fibre (from alfalfa) decreased. Large fibre proportion in rabbit diets should not drop below 21%, corresponding in this case, to a minimal level of 15% alfalfa in the diet (Nicodemus et al., 2006).

As a source of energy, alfalfa cannot fully meet the growth requirements of commercial rabbits, mainly because of its physiological limitation in ingestion (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998).

Alfalfa hay is also a valuable source of protein (25% of the dietary protein) though its nutritive value varies greatly, depending on several factors such as the harvesting and drying process or plant maturity at harvest. Though alfalfa protein content is sufficient to meet rabbit requirements, the low digestibility of alfalfa protein makes it unsuitable for sustaining high growth rates (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998). The apparent digestibility of faecal protein of alfalfa hay is about 21% that of soybean meal value and its methionine content is 42% that of soybean meal one (Villamide et al., 2010). In tropical regions, where alfalfa is not readily grown, other protein sources such as bambara groundnut can be used instead (Aganga et al., 2005).

Due to heavy fertilizer applications, feeding alfalfa to rabbits may result in excess K (Mateos et al., 2010). Alfalfa hay is rich in calcium: this may be an advantage during the growth period but it should be limited or avoided in adult rabbits (Lowe, 2010). Alfalfa is also an excellent source of most of B vitamins, carotene, E vitamin and K vitamin (Mateos et al., 2010).

High levels of alfalfa hay (88% and 96%) decreased rabbit mortality by 13.6% and 10.3% respectively (Fernandez-Carmona et al., 1998)."

===Red Clover Hay===
Average
*Protein :% DM 18.7
*Fiber :% DM 27.4
*Carbohydrates :% DM 13

https://www.feedipedia.org/node/246
"Red clover hay introduced at up to 30% in balanced diets in place of alfalfa meal (0, 33, 66 or 100% replacement) did not alter growth, digestibility and mortality (Grandi et al., 1988), indicating that red clover hay could be used safely in complete diets for rabbit feeding."

===Oat forage ===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/500 Avena sativa L.] [Poaceae]

Average
*Protein :% DM 9.1
*Fiber :% DM 34.0
*Carbohydrates :% DM 17.7

=== Grass Hay ===

Catch all: Grass hay comes from a variety of sources timothy, brome, orchard grass, tall fescue, and bermudagrass. It contains lower levels of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and minerals than legume hay. Grass hay is very high in fiber. Because grass hay contains fewer nutrients, it may be necessary to supplement your livestock’s diet to ensure its nutritional needs are being met.
*Protein :% DM
*Fiber :% DM
*Carbohydrates :% DM

===Mixed Grass/Legume Hay ===
Legume and grass hay blends offer the best of both worlds and help bring nutritional balance to hay. Not only do these mixes provide a more well-rounded diet, but growing them together often
produces more forage than growing a legume or grass alone. When considering establishing a legume/grass hayfield, aim for a field containing around 1/3 grass to 2/3 legume. There are several
excellent combinations to plant. Some of the more popular combinations are orchardgrass/alfalfa and tall fescue/alfalfa. These mixed hays are readily eaten and healthy for all types of livestock.
[https://www.naturesseed.com/blog/which-pasture-plants-make-the-best-hay/#:~:text=Grass%20hay%20also%20comes%20from,is%20very%20high%20in%20fiber. hay]
*Protein :% DM
*Fiber :% DM
*Carbohydrates :% DM

===Bermuda grass ===
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/471 Cynodon dactylon Pers.] [Poaceae]

*Protein :% DM 9.8
*Fiber :% DM 31.3
*Carbohydrates :% DM 0.8

==hay videos==

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139937962263022894?_t=8VSUBshbIxG&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139910883932654891?_t=8VSUCWs9s55&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139541620420054314?_t=8VSUDNJgg15&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7139182140431846699?_t=8VSUGY1PbEk&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@dominothespotcat/video/7124482741818641710?_t=8VSUKkABG1b&_r=1

== Quick links to Hay Resources ==
[https://www.feedipedia.org/node/16886 Timothy ]

[https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-a-hay-analysis Understanding a Hay Analysis]

[https://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/media/extadminifasufledu/cflag/image/docs/fl-equine-institute/2006/SelectingHay.pdf Selecting Hay for Your Horse ]
Lori K. Warren, PhD, PAS Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida

[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606619/ Shape Variation in the Craniomandibular System and Prevalence of Dental Problems in Domestic Rabbits: A Case Study in Evolutionary Veterinary Science]
Vet Sci. 2017 Mar; 4(1): 5. Published online 2017 Jan 24. doi: 10.3390/vetsci4010005 PMCID: PMC5606619 PMID: 29056664

[https://www.agdaily.com/crops/list-of-types-of-hay-found-us/ List of hay found in US]

[https://tributeequinenutrition.com/articles/whats-difference-between-grass-and-legume-forages Differences between Grass and Legume forages]

[https://www.hobbyfarms.com/all-hay-is-not-equal-choose-your-livestocks-carefully/ All Hay Is Not Equal: Choose Your Livestock’s Carefully]

=Rabbit Snacks and Treats =

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Recipes_to_Make_Treats_For_Rabbits Recipe page:]

=Debunked Studies whose info is still used as "evidence" for House Rabbit society Propaganda:=

[https://www.proquest.com/openview/aab930d5ae37a871a6db58254da14fdb/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2041027&fbclid=IwAR231sEmTCZBjH9nE5l6q1mFN-Hb9dXPREmaXCS279ipOCuc4BZDUXeJGtQ Preference of rabbits for drinking from open dishes versus nipple drinkers ]
Tschudin, A; Clauss, M; Codron, D; Hatt, J-M.The Veterinary Record; London Vol. 168, Iss. 7, (Feb 19, 2011): 190.

This study was widely discredited, and removed from ResearchGate, and PubMed , becuse the sample size was 12 dwarf rabbits total. Not large enough sample to gather any conclusive evidence.

Also questionable Sources on the House Rabbit society care pages House Rabbit Society cites three sources for their information at the bottom of their care page, they cite zero studies, and zero research, you are expected to take what they post as gospel with no reviewable sources to back it up. it is there for not academic but a op-ed opinion piece. :

*Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
*Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health
*Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

Dr. Susan Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison ( 2002-2010 National Board of Directors, House Rabbit Society (Richmond CA) 
https://sph.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/112/2016/07/Susan_Smith_CV.pdf

Dr. Susan Smith has been invited to speak at numerous HRS conventions. She has also written several opinion articles for laypeople. However, Dr. Smith has not published any research studies involving rabbits, peer-reviewed papers on rabbits, or sponsored rabbit-related research. In fact, all of her rabbit-related activities are solely in her capacity as a member of the House Rabbit Society board. The society appears to be using Dr. Smith's doctorate to lend authority to its opinions, but not to support those opinions with any empirical evidence. This raises the question of whether the HRS is truly an independent organization or whether it is a front for activist interests.

Dr. Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, Oxbow Animal Health , VP of Technical Services and Research, Oxbow Animal Health 
He was part of the study that tested , The Effect of Feed Form on Diet Digestibility and Cecal Parameters in Rabbits
December 2017Animals 7(12):95 DOI:10.3390/ani7120095 [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321658593_The_Effect_of_Feed_Form_on_Diet_Digestibility_and_Cecal_Parameters_in_Rabbits] . This study had a total sample size of 15 new Zealand Rabbits. Broken into three groups of five Rabbits. "Rabbits were placed in individual cages with ad libitum access to water and food for 45 days acclimation followed by 30 days experimental period."

"Simple Summary: In addition to hay or forage in the diet pet rabbits are commonly fed a supplementary food as a muesli (granular mix), pellets, or extruded croquettes. This study aimed to determine if form of this supplementary
diet (pelleted vs. extruded) or composition (muesli) had an effect on the diets total tract digestibility and cecal fermentation patterns. Rabbits had slightly higher intake when fed extruded and pelleted diets compared to muesli.
Digestibility results were inconsistent between estimation methods. The extruded diet was more digestible than pelleted according to the total collection digestibility method, but according to internal marker acid insoluble ash
 The pelleted diet was the most digestible. Both the extruded and pelleted diet had similar fermentation patterns, with lower cecal pH and greater proportions of butyrate. Our findings suggest that diet composition, rather
than form, may have a greater impact on nutrient utilization by rabbits "

The pellet used was also only 14% protein. and the sample size was tiny.

Gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology of select exotic companion mammals https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24767739/ [https://books.google.com/books?id=M8WLAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA165&lpg=PA165&dq=Gastrointestinal%20Anatomy%20and%20Physiology%20of%20Select%20Exotic%20Companion%20Mammals&source=bl&ots=tlLl8zcfAn&sig=ACfU3U2IPejsgPTujD2FsbzQydT4JajJTQ&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjiyr_CxKH2AhWxlIkEHYINBmkQ6AF6BAgdEAI&fbclid=IwAR1IGYOezqmKbJ6vTjq52Ud8SlbBbALeUTN5UY_-xQeuV4OeoLuG1yRird8#v=onepage&q=Gastrointestinal%20Anatomy%20and%20Physiology%20of%20Select%20Exotic%20Companion%20Mammals&f=false good breakdown of the mechanic of digestion but has no info regarding actual nutrient requirements ]
by M Kohles · 2014

note: study on this topic is represented above that shows the gut bacteria and digestion is different between Rabbit and Cavy.

Dr. Peter G. Fisher, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal), Pet Care Veterinary Hospital

Gastrointestinal disease in ferrets and rabbits (Proceedings)
August 1, 2011 Peter G. Fisher, DVM
https://www.dvm360.com/view/gastrointestinal-disease-ferrets-and-rabbits-proceedings
it covers diseases of gastrointestinal tract, and what parasites and infection commonly cause bloat, and not diet.

and the 2 other linked opinion pieces read as a oxbow marketing advertisement. even naming oxbow by name.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/rabbit-medicine-overview-proceedings
Notice how the nutrition section has ZERO links back to ANY supporting research articles yet all other sections have multiple sources cites to support the text.

https://www.dvm360.com/view/thinking-adding-exotic-mammals-your-case-load-equipment-needs-proceedings
This opinion piece reads like commercial for oxbow.

I have reviewed the sources cited in the House Rabbit Society Article on nutrition. Unfortunately, two of the veterinarians they cite, Dr. Peter G. Fisher and Dr. Micah Kohles, do not appear to have any studies or research that support the claims in the Feeding article. Their only support comes from opinion articles that lack supporting research. In fact, the actual studies I have found by these veterinarians provide a more compelling argument for feeding a complete and balanced pellet over "salads" that are low in fiber and high in fermentable carbs, which according to one of their studies, can cause appendix damage. Dr. Susan Smith has no rabbit research in her portfolio, and her only connection to rabbits is that she served on the House Rabbit Society board and repeated the talking points she was given to enhance the House Rabbit Society's credibility. I find it very disappointing that the House Rabbit Society would promote such a misleading article, and I would not recommend it as a reliable source of information on rabbit nutrition.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267686834_NUTRITIVE_VALUE_OF_SAWDUST

Pine Sawdust:
CP content varied from 1.8 to 3.5 g/100g,
CF content varied from 39.5 to 74.0 g/100g

Timothy Hay
CP content 3% g/100g
CF content 28% g/100g

==Feed Related Studies==

[https://mmcrabbits.com/BCWiki/index.php/Researchlinks#REFLECTIONS_ON_RABBIT_NUTRITION_WITH_A_SPECIAL_EMPHASIS_ON_FEED_INGREDIENTS_UTILIZATION Research Links ]

[https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding Rabbit Tracks: Feeds and Feeding April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension] 
Received: 23 May 2021 / Revised: 12 July 2021 / Accepted: 12 July 2021 / Published: 14 July 2021

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health] 
August 2013

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Effects of Rocket Seed Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, and Their Mixture on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Digestibility, Redox Status, and Meat Fatty Acid Profile of Growing Rabbits] 
April 24, 2017 - Author: Michigan State University Extension

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION RECENT RESEARCH ADVANCES IN RABBIT NUTRITION] 
December 2000

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization Reflections on rabbit nutrition with a special emphasis on feed ingredients utilization] 
January 2004

Feed related

Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition
[https://www.academia.edu/8592261/Nutrition_of_the_Rabbit_Second_Edition?email_work_card=title Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition]
Mohammad Rifky

rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/rabbit_tracks_feeds_and_feeding

Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health==
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275519611_Impact_of_feed_restriction_and_of_the_hygiene_of_housing_on_rabbit_performances_and_health

https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268003523_RECENT_RESEARCH_ADVANCES_IN_RABBIT_NUTRITION

https://www.vetfolio.com/learn/article/nutrition-know-how-pet-rabbit-nutrition

General Feed Supplements

EFFECT OF DIETARY SELENIUM ENRICHED MICRO-ALGAE SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANTI- OXIDATIVE STATUS OF RABBITS UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IN SUMMER SEASON" by mohamed basyony===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/QllhK1c5L1FDbkFwNEdTNkY4UDI3QnpOTGlCSTRtQ0lNd1V5QTBKVWk2RT0tLXVVQjVtOEVNUm9ZQkIzOEZmY3orSWc9PQ==--c79ce43255800522b842d0c8be4f1a102ba46aaf/t/sPPdN-Qp4b4Q1-bhRvi1/resource/work/21619748/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_SELENIUM_ENRICHED_MICRO_ALGAE_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_AND_ANTI_OXIDATIVE_STATUS_OF_RABBITS_UNDER_HIGH_AMBIENT_TEMPERATURE_IN_SUMMER_SEASON?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Rk9LdEk3cUt6aDQwdEUvK0dPaHhvUkRVRk5iUzdlV05WelVvS3prZkJGdz0tLWZZRFZWUGN3N2ZNTTBFOU4zRElqQ0E9PQ==--bd7de4edfce98920e93a0b1c5d01a3591f51cc78/t/sPPdN-Qdcm7Pe-p67QM/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Effect of Zinc Supplementation on some Physiological and Growth Traits in Local Male Rabbit" by World's Veterinary Journal Editor===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UzR2b3BhSVl6QjFMeTk5bjR1dXQxYTNhZXBwQUh2UncxdFNBUVVjZkRoMD0tLTIrY1NFWVBnU05mWnNwZlFPUTlrM3c9PQ==--7ad74ccf2d833f46a06ba9dcf8a6f6d63038c707/t/sPPdN-QfnHV4z-kQ1wm/resource/work/32956665/Effect_of_Zinc_Supplementation_on_some_Physiological_and_Growth_Traits_in_Local_Male_Rabbit?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 1. Response of Growing Rabbits to DietsHamed A.A. Omer, AbdEl-Maged A. Abedo, Sawsan M. Ahmed, Azza M.M. Badrand Mervat S.M. HasaninLife Science..." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEd0VnRmek51ZDdkNlJBSVhaUlBmV1F1ekFPRUdKTUR3RjczdnVCVSs3MD0tLW1WVGgvc3M2aTdFUURKV2MwOXAwQ3c9PQ==--8aaaec6b132b8e0db8dc46fab39fe4e45b811b1b/t/sPPdN-Qgz1jJD-HxeW0/resource/work/8539516/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_1_Response_of_Growing_Rabbits_to_DietsHamed_A_A_Omer_AbdEl_Maged_A_Abedo_Sawsan_M_Ahmed_Azza_M_M_Badrand_Mervat_S_M_HasaninLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_4_?email_work_card=title

Utilization of Flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum L.) in Rabbit Rations. 2. Influence of Flaxseeds Levels Supplementations on Blood Constituents, Carcass Characteristics and Fatty Acids Profile." by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/UThubG0wTEgrc1BKeEFnT3pycEF1OUxwVHZ6S1RGcVd1SkErVThPQnZqMD0tLXV5ZW5LVitIT0NhdDYvZnFuVWJlRlE9PQ==--4d0a1cc52d355dfd197363aa7fa6dc86b45cdf4a/t/sPPdN-QgG9ADH-bbjVAv/resource/work/12250987/Utilization_of_Flaxseeds_Linum_usitatissimum_L_in_Rabbit_Rations_2_Influence_of_Flaxseeds_Levels_Supplementations_on_Blood_Constituents_Carcass_Characteristics_and_Fatty_Acids_Profile?email_work_card=title

Agronomy: "Growth Performance and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients of Weaned Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Forms of Cocoa Pod Husk Meal" by Asian Online Journal Publishing Group===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L3IzQTZDNUVZWUF2NEwvZDV1Wkp0ZU52TU1meHJIY1dXYkt3UXU4T3E5UT0tLUl3SW9lQ0RZU3NhMjAwNjhIWWY3Y3c9PQ==--a3f206fa63664368e8bfde6eebd8f9470a3bdb2a/t/sPPdN-QpF3kHw-bqigTi/resource/work/35848207/Growth_Performance_and_Apparent_Nutrient_Digestibility_Coefficients_of_Weaned_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Forms_of_Cocoa_Pod_Husk_Meal?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF CHAMOMILE FLOWERS AS FEED ADDITIVE ON SOME BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS FOR GROWING RABBITS" by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YjZsSmVsM3AxM2F4enBmNkU5KzRuTVo2cFJKdUlDY3hVMGJSMDVRS2pwND0tLVN1V3FvTHc5MnI0NXFVbjBuQ1hnYUE9PQ==--3b3eadef9f6ebfe96bfa15eea7a3dfae8e494a31/t/sPPdN-Qpjmi1D-bdz6oo/resource/work/9329672/EFFECT_OF_CHAMOMILE_FLOWERS_AS_FEED_ADDITIVE_ON_SOME_BIOLOGICAL_PARAMETERS_FOR_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

The Nutritive Value of Zornia glochidiata as a Non-conventional Feedstuff in Rabbit in Sokoto, Nigeria" by Ndudim Ogo===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aUFMWjBISEJNMHVKZ080NjR5TGErcXpJRzJMelp0U0JtamU4Y2lvRFpJUT0tLVA2dEFmL0hEcGg0SFV2TG1teVlFaWc9PQ==--622e2baee790f8efb1144e9240ed1ada4b3fe5c8/t/sPPdN-QnogdXn-bc1HPX/resource/work/18711695/The_Nutritive_Value_of_Zornia_glochidiata_as_a_Non_conventional_Feedstuff_in_Rabbit_in_Sokoto_Nigeria?email_work_card=title

Performance of rabbits fed diets with varying concentrate and fodder ratio in north eastern region of Tripura" by Asit Chakrabarti===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MGIycnE2am5lK09CbkEzWnluM1JtaFFjNlk0UVUxSGpQTXNWTE1hS2VYZz0tLWsrdFc5bElVOHcyYmVzWkhrQmRSMVE9PQ==--5b5a30c634eeea396188f5f96e29e2476dd5cdd6/t/sPPdN-QmEt7ei-AvMTB/resource/work/39725417/Performance_of_rabbits_fed_diets_with_varying_concentrate_and_fodder_ratio_in_north_eastern_region_of_Tripura?email_work_card=title

Various Legume as feed and feed supplements

Evaluation of soybean (Glycine max), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as sole sources of proteins for growing rabbits" by Donald Chisowa===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SWR6b1dLWFNBb3pxbFh3VXNCUmxjWnFuV0hac1JuMnhjVERWUzh3djYwOD0tLTdwcXJ2VmJ1UTFTa0p5TzBCUFdlb1E9PQ==--e17ca3b4f9f183f27b84e94a67e75efe6ebf36f4/t/sPPdN-QoQRVXM-WNtJE/resource/work/11351185/Evaluation_of_soybean_Glycine_max_cowpea_Vigna_unguiculata_and_pigeon_pea_Cajanus_cajan_as_sole_sources_of_proteins_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Hamed A.A Omerand Azza M.M. Badr.Growth Performance of New Zealand White Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Pea StrawLife Science Journal 2013;10(2)" by dr.azza badr===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/U2pZNE5LYmdLY2NleXppeDhCb2owd2YxZ0FDNWJub2IzNmNsM0ZCNlpIQT0tLU51UHBhN3JGQ0ZmOWJYclJTdWRKNkE9PQ==--429eb979b597c8159c3230f2bb5e087f0b6765ca/t/sPPdN-QcSQb5L-bxcsdM/resource/work/8539260/Hamed_A_A_Omerand_Azza_M_M_Badr_Growth_Performance_of_New_Zealand_White_Rabbits_Fed_Diets_Containing_Different_Levels_of_Pea_StrawLife_Science_Journal_2013_10_2_?email_work_card=title

Effect of Chemical Composition of Alfalfa Hay on Several . Digestive Measurements in Growing Rabbits" by Rosa Carabaño===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/VldVYTkrN3FQVmVjZzBlT0tPSXFNN3lJWks5a0JDbSs2Nm0vWk5yNTAvZz0tLThQaE85MTc3Vlo2YmdwVSsrTFpJdWc9PQ==--90cc8df7accb7e7757b217e27490b7698e7cf5a0/t/sPPdN-Qa9cnMB-B2d8N/resource/work/24812249/Effect_of_Chemical_Composition_of_Alfalfa_Hay_on_Several_Digestive_Measurements_in_Growing_Rabbits?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF FEEDING OLIVE CAKE SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT BENTONITE ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/aGhEa0Y3MXpTUm9QK0g4NS8rbGVZTmwyL3Q2Wmd1bFh0VzhhYTFkR1lGTT0tLWdvNlFRT0hhcEowVy9ESGpQTFplTHc9PQ==--e954ae63b78666fe8b6026136d1caa841a3244e7/t/sPPdN-QaECJQk-baz1zi/resource/work/36496594/EFFECT_OF_FEEDING_OLIVE_CAKE_SUPPLEMENTED_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_BENTONITE_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BLOOD COMPONENTS AND SLAUGHTER TRAITS OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE MALE GROWING RABBITS AS AFFECTED BY DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH CALCIUM, SODIUM OR POTASSIUM, IN SUB-TROPICAL EGYPT" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat== https://www.academia.edu/keypass/SU9MMGRUSEhLWGlNT20zaXdkTXEyUjJYYWlFaDI2RHRqNnZtYXF1Z1d6WT0tLUphSHIxRlRRbUZQQituR25Gc0dkK2c9PQ==--841cf9236890a2487e4a977273720546ef9a32dc/t/sPPdN-QaqqFUB-nAEXb/resource/work/12692254/GROWTH_PERFORMANCE_BLOOD_COMPONENTS_AND_SLAUGHTER_TRAITS_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_MALE_GROWING_RABBITS_AS_AFFECTED_BY_DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTATION_WITH_CALCIUM_SODIUM_OR_POTASSIUM_IN_SUB_TROPICAL_EGYPT?email_work_card=title

Additional energy supplements in the diet for growing rabbits" by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Salah Ayyat==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/NHFKYlphcXg4VWNzZGVkSDVmVVFXYXlqOCtHSEVrd3RLN0NQN2xDZFZwYz0tLVVFcFpIZE9zV3pEWWRkU1Z5N09JcUE9PQ==--b6e433ce56d2392549ee5b405d73fa8c16e303ff/t/sPPdN-QaifWu2-bfmPBZ/resource/work/23248022/Additional_energy_supplements_in_the_diet_for_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title

Influence of dietary benzoic acid addition on nutrient digestibility and selected biochemical parameters in fattening rabbits" by K. Fegeros==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/b2lheWJTUWNnUEVBTG5Ddm1YamhzSDQySGNZd0k1TVV1aE1ldmFVR1RGVT0tLUNLSk5MYmlvYW1kN29STUUzSCtPelE9PQ==--917462902d2600191af2d70536465a40bd316be4/t/sPPdN-QepHj7D-VtVZd/resource/work/30474431/Influence_of_dietary_benzoic_acid_addition_on_nutrient_digestibility_and_selected_biochemical_parameters_in_fattening_rabbits?email_work_card=title

COMMERCIAL ENZYMES

EFFECT OF USING COMMERCIAL ENZYMES TO IMPROVE DIETS CONTAINED PEANUT HAY ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS" by Fathy Atta===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/OUJlVHFVTHozWlFQYW9idGdPUmJSUHJFZElZdGRXR3Fpc04rZU41N1IrZz0tLXlWY2FhdldaTll1Y1AwbEpxczAxbXc9PQ==--e16599d129e829b7da7a4ca4d6c379ce72e7532b/t/sPPdN-QeUbKK9-bxtmgk/resource/work/7230460/EFFECT_OF_USING_COMMERCIAL_ENZYMES_TO_IMPROVE_DIETS_CONTAINED_PEANUT_HAY_ON_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS?email_work_card=title

RESPONSE OF GROWING RABBITS TO DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF WHEAT SCREENING BY-PRODUCT WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION " by Ibrahim abaza===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bGpGeEkrdzZ3NE5PU2hKYUNZdmRQN1JMYjdqMU51RGc0clRmTStHTVhwbz0tLTF5bnhHY0V1TUxLNnZrR1N1WmdmVVE9PQ==--e42c63ee99bdc464d47fa63c8decab24ae97b4fb/t/sPPdN-Qc5erQc-bhct0a/resource/work/5108323/RESPONSE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_TO_DIETS_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_WHEAT_SCREENING_BY_PRODUCT_WITH_OR_WITHOUT_ENZYME_SUPPLEMENTATION?email_work_card=title

EFFECT OF DIETARY CORN COBS AND ENZYMES SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWING RABBITS PERFORMANCE===
https://www.academia.edu/8019560/EFFECT_OF_DIETARY_CORN_COBS_AND_ENZYMES_SUPPLEMENTATION_ON_GROWING_RABBITS_PERFORMANCE?email_work_card=title
Ibrahim abaza

EFFECT OF ENZYMES AND PROBIOTIC MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION TO THE DIET OF GROWING FEMALE RABBITS ON PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CRITERIA" by Mohamed El-Sagheer===
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bFNjQ1hweHdXMU5jZStuaTVwR0FNMEl2S2FHYzNLa2twOExReE9oeU9OVT0tLUQ5RXdoNElpYzlpUGJCK0hmMnhseVE9PQ==--05cb9b9a585550db2c1c6d59abe3c29322dc3ee1/t/sPPdN-QaMLryt-K4jEZ/resource/work/11938475/EFFECT_OF_ENZYMES_AND_PROBIOTIC_MIXTURESUPPLEMENTATION_TO_THE_DIET_OF_GROWING_FEMALE_RABBITS_ON_PERFORMANCE_AND_CARCASS_CRITERIA?email_work_card=title

REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION
[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287407223_Reflections_on_rabbit_nutrition_with_a_special_emphasis_on_feed_ingredients_utilization REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION]
" REFLECTIONS ON RABBIT NUTRITION WITH A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEED INGREDIENTS UTILIZATION LEBAS F. Cuniculture, 87a Chemin de Lassère, 31450 Corronsac, France lebas@cuniculture.info ABSTRACT In this invited communication the author proposes a list of nutritional recommendations for rabbits of different categories: growing from 18 to 42 days, from 42 to 80 days, for breeding does according to productivity (40-50 kits weaned per doe/year or more than 50) and for a single diet suitable for all rabbits. Recommendations taking account the last published data, are divided in 2 groups. The first corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to feed efficiency: digestible energy, crude and digestible protein, amino acids, minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins. The second group corresponds to nutrients which contribute mainly to nutritive security and digestive health: different fibre components (lignins, cellulose, hemicelluloses) and their equilibrium, starch and water soluble vitamins. In a second part, 387 papers published during the last 30 years on raw material utilisation in rabbit feeding were analysed. In a total of 14 tables, the 542 corresponding experiments were summarised each by the identification of the raw material, by the highest level of incorporation used in the experiment, by the highest acceptable level, by the main ingredient(s) replaced by the raw material studied, and finally by the authors reference. Raw materials studied were those used in temperate as well as in tropical countries. The raw material were grouped according to the following categories : raw material used as single food (24 experiments), cereals and by-products (43 exp.), other carbohydrates source of energy (62 exp.), fats (27 exp.), full-fat oleaginous grains (10 exp.), oil cakes and meals (43 exp.), proteic seeds such peas or beans (42 exp.), miscellaneous sources of protein such yeast or leaf protein (18 exp.), animal products (21 exp.), non-protein nitrogen source such urea (9 exp.), forages (157 exp.), cereal straws, alkali treated or not (33 exp.), cover or parts of dried grains source of fibre such stalks, hulls or cobs (19 exp.) and industrial by-products usable as fibre source (51 exp.). Key words: nutritional recommendations, raw materials, data basis"

Effect of energy restriction in interaction with genotype on the performance of growing rabbits: II. Carcass traits and meat quality" by Z. Szendrő==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/ZTN1b3FROWR1aUZhWGM1Q0FJRk1XcWpSajlIRDdGUlZUakRXc21FRmxjaz0tLVNIdE1PS3ZtdnZuR1hWWm82UDg3U3c9PQ==--669990dfc647432f898e381ed8b9b41de23c78aa/t/sPPdN-QmqdKDg-bmjCCY/resource/work/13592540/Effect_of_energy_restriction_in_interaction_with_genotype_on_the_performance_of_growing_rabbits_II_Carcass_traits_and_meat_quality?email_work_card=title

Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by hadil samy==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bDBFWG8wcXl1MlBnSjlyenBnUkhKL2FZTmVnYmtyVW9vbThrWGNwaERMOD0tLXY4WWFsRlpHU0FKWVRTRTlLTmRCRnc9PQ==--6433eef0d04443b5c7e946a1c73ae59282239da3/t/sPPdN-Qmh7hzB-insEp/resource/work/27823893/Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

DOI: Response of New Zealand Rabbits to Diet Containing Guava Waste (Psidium Guaijava L.): 1. Effect on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Economic Efficiency" by Fathy Abdel-Fattah==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/L2g5dmN3WEx4d01hb3JHanJkL1pUQXhZSXBMd3JwczQyVGlGeUhaakFxcz0tLUFPYUloZy9HZnAzMU1wMklmcDUxcEE9PQ==--cf05b9d08abd2994dce26ca3b775a8a327b9c34f/t/sPPdN-QqEo2CE-fAfA5/resource/work/38091315/DOI_Response_of_New_Zealand_Rabbits_to_Diet_Containing_Guava_Waste_Psidium_Guaijava_L_1_Effect_on_Growth_Performance_Diet_Digestibility_and_Economic_Efficiency?email_work_card=title

INCLUSION OF DRIED AGRO-INDUSTRIAL STRAWBERRY BY- PRODUCTS IN GROWING RABBIT DIETS" by mohamed basyony==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/N0V6STlENndzVWprbmthVTJGZEtGcUVha0RzZ2dCWm5sVFZXSFI5VFRPOD0tLWMxRjUyRHpHZ2pyU0l3SGkyR2JXVGc9PQ==--bdf935bf33d5e21673da61a284addd06919e86b9/t/sPPdN-QhFdf7T-VUozM/resource/work/36496618/INCLUSION_OF_DRIED_AGRO_INDUSTRIAL_STRAWBERRY_BY_PRODUCTS_IN_GROWING_RABBIT_DIETS?email_work_card=title

Rabbit’s performance, health and meat quality improvement by phyto-additives" by Attawit Kovitvadhi==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/bi8vWGZUcnVHM00zaDJSRklnOWVsV1VtMjlFQjFnQVNDN3VOUXJEQ3Z4Yz0tLXI0MndMN2J3UE8xZkNMbG5yV21YMmc9PQ==--c03893c550d192819f3dde5b88cb43c0251cfc1e/t/sPPdN-QqNsCkH-0zMCL/resource/work/19803703/Rabbit_s_performance_health_and_meat_quality_improvement_by_phyto_additives?email_work_card=title

PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIET CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TOMATO POMACE" by Mahmoud Elazab==
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/eDNRMFl1YXdrb2ZTMGdxUkJTYkRTWDNzYkJoVHRVN2locDY1c3FjT3ZCcz0tLTB0R3RFeXZLNGduVlQvN2VQQ1ZaL3c9PQ==--b8af070801c6d13d7041b1060baf6b0b2f86db3f/t/sPPdN-QhbGBew-kbnLX/resource/work/35484427/PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_GROWING_RABBITS_FED_DIET_CONTAINING_DIFFERENT_LEVELS_OF_TOMATO_POMACE?email_work_card=title

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/dVhDUDgwSXFFTHo0UVBldFNXOHFQVkhsbFZnVEphQm50U1FtK1BNc2JIRT0tLXZOQUhpcFFDZ2czSndMaXZDNGVWTVE9PQ==--3f889f2926497df89c9685f9795796f88b4c76c3/t/sPPdN-Qg4y1P2-UzbBy/resource/work/21181061/Growth_performance_carcass_quality_biochemical_and_haematological_traits_and_immune_response_of_growing_rabbits_as_affected_by_different_growth_promoters?email_work_card=title
Growth performance, carcass quality, biochemical and haematological traits and immune response of growing rabbits as affected by different growth promoters" by Youssef Attia]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/d1NVejZIa0VOYm5mUit1dG9xTVdkZ1VHOTB0QUM4aGhHS2xaTVQvcklSTT0tLS9zbXdWNDdBcXBnZFhySTA2Slhxdnc9PQ==--5649e5cdede150483096497d7b424e160c3a414a/t/sPPdN-QdV9eNq-9MtFF/resource/work/36496604/EVALUATION_OF_EGYPTIAN_TREE_WILLOW_Salix_safsafs_LEAVES_AND_ITS_FEEDING_AFFECT_ON_PRODUCTIVE_PERFORMANCE_OF_NEW_ZEALAND_WHITE_RABBITS?email_work_card=title EVALUATION OF EGYPTIAN TREE WILLOW (Salix safsafs) LEAVES AND ITS FEEDING AFFECT ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBITS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/cEhlWjJsMlJyc3JCNDNVUlJUK05CaHR2V1NoYWMwVStxTlIrUWloZjEvbz0tLVZEdkJxZVYrc00zYm5aWE5kT0NTTEE9PQ==--b040db53fb351cf834d73ebd3dada957c02e4c95/t/sPPdN-Qfu5LUn-617sS/resource/work/36496613/UTILIZATION_OF_Ziziphus_spina_christi_LEAVES_AS_A_NATURAL_GROWTH_PROMOTER_IN_RABBITS_RATIONS?email_work_card=title UTILIZATION OF Ziziphus spina-christi LEAVES AS A NATURAL GROWTH PROMOTER IN RABBIT'S RATIONS" by mohamed basyony]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/MzFNWE5hWklnWXhlcStJNExWNjBvcEhudjN1dTZNaVVjdzlnZGpyNVZnMD0tLU4veFVJRldVSElzRy9oN0k2U0tWa1E9PQ==--7562f212c75e4f5a0c8e066594e00fd0239031f2/t/sPPdN-QdyLbjc-qbmgV/resource/work/31846675/Effect_of_replacement_of_berseem_Trifolium_alexandrinum_L_hay_by_berseem_silage_on_performance_of_growing_rabbits?email_work_card=title Effect of replacement of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) hay by berseem silage on performance of growing rabbits" by Hamed Gaafar]

[https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/11/7/662 Oil added to feed]

[https://www.academia.edu/keypass/YmlrSzU4SGRBZUJCbGViT0xjNDBZMk0vUGpVTzlFZnlWNjBtbFNSSGVMUT0tLWFlWGtLQVQycjFDSlU3ZmhTcURHdnc9PQ==--b809c3d7d0c75ba0dc95475b2ed5ba659e21e9b8/t/sPPdN-Qe1mzqP-AJQtS/resource/work/12250896/Improving_the_Utilization_of_Rabbit_Diets_Containing_Vegetable_Oil_by_Using_Fennel_Foeniculum_vulgare_And_Oregano_Origanum_vulgare_L_as_Feed_Additives?email_work_card=title Improving the Utilization of Rabbit Diets Containing Vegetable Oil by Using Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) And Oregano (Origanum vulgare L) as Feed Additives" by dr.azza badr]

Study of the effect of grape seed extract as a natural antioxidant on the performance of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits during summer season in Egypt Fawzia A. Hassan1; Khalid M. Mahrose2 and Mohamed Basyony3" by mohamed basyony
https://www.academia.edu/keypass/Z0t1TlpMWlo4TjlkRmtURzkxY01MeWZMcEd2SmczNURyUE1GNm10Sy9jaz0tLWNBZ3pLMVZ6RDJ6dnJzeEhsRitsaGc9PQ==--3ea66988e3650ec90c1f8439baede86ffca6bf57/t/sPPdN-QdrCvu9-byFUwt/resource/work/21659194/Study_of_the_effect_of_grape_seed_extract_as_a_natural_antioxidant_on_the_performance_of_New_Zealand_White_NZW_rabbits_during_summer_season_in_Egypt_Fawzia_A_Hassan1_Khalid_M_Mahrose2_and_Mohamed_Basyony3?email_work_card=title

==notes to be incorporated ==