Difference between revisions of "Rabbit Feeding Guide"

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= Other Feed Additives =
= Other Feed Additives =


==Proteins==
== 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.


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.
* 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.
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 ]


* 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.


*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.
== 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.


*Soybean :
* 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.
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
* Oats and Beet Pulp Shreds: These are common carbohydrate sources that also provide some fiber.
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==
== Fiber ==
*oils
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.
*Black Oil Sunflower seeds


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


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


The digestion of fibre in the rabbit was subjected to several recent reviews (GIDENNE, 1996;
== Enzymes ==
GIDENNE et al., 1998d; DE BLAS et al., 1999), as the dietary fibre supply is implicated in the
Enzymatic supplements can aid digestion, especially during periods of stress or dietary transition. These include papaya enzyme and other proteolytic enzymes.
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.
<b>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. </b>
<i>~ F. Lebas & T. Gidenne «Recent research advances in rabbit nutrition» page 4 </i>


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

Revision as of 23:59, 11 August 2025

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

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

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 [1] 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

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

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

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.

hay

  • Protein  :% DM
  • Fiber  :% DM
  • Carbohydrates :% DM


Bermuda grass

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

Timothy

Understanding a Hay Analysis

Selecting Hay for Your Horse Lori K. Warren, PhD, PAS Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida

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

List of hay found in US

Differences between Grass and Legume forages

All Hay Is Not Equal: Choose Your Livestock’s Carefully

Rabbit Snacks and Treats

Recipe page:

Debunked Studies whose info 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.

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 [2] . 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/   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

Research Links

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

Impact of feed restriction and of the hygiene of housing on rabbit performances and health
August 2013

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

RECENT RESEARCH ADVANCES IN RABBIT NUTRITION
December 2000

Reflections on rabbit nutrition with a special emphasis on feed ingredients utilization
January 2004


Feed related

Nutrition of the Rabbit Second Edition 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 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]



EVALUATION OF EGYPTIAN TREE WILLOW (Salix safsafs) LEAVES AND ITS FEEDING AFFECT ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBITS" by mohamed basyony



UTILIZATION OF Ziziphus spina-christi LEAVES AS A NATURAL GROWTH PROMOTER IN RABBIT'S RATIONS" by mohamed basyony



Effect of replacement of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) hay by berseem silage on performance of growing rabbits" by Hamed Gaafar


Oil added to feed


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