Comparison of different reproduction protocols for rabbit does: effect of litter size and mating interval

The aim of the study was to compare different reproductive protocols based on fixed (I I days after kindling) or alternating remating intervals (I day post-partum and post-weaning alternatively) and two litter sizes (six vs. eight kits). Weaning of kits occurred at 26 days of age. Four groups of 35 New Zealand White females were inseminated for eight consecutive cycles. Does with six kits had a higher sexual receptivity, fertility rate and a lower energy deficit. The milk production was lower but the milk suckled per kit was higher. This greater milk availability determined heavier kits till 70 days of age and a lower mortality rate. Does submitted to the alternating rhythm showed the same kindling interval as the respective fixed groups although the mating interval was 3 days longer. This rhythm in comparison with the fixed one seemed more adapted to doe physiology and improved the receptivity and the fertility, even under more critical conditions (high milk output). (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.