Authors
PR Cheeke
Publication date
1986/11/1
Journal
Journal of Animal science
Volume
63
Issue
5
Pages
1581-1586
Publisher
Oxford University Press
Description
Rabbits have a number of characteristics, such as small body size, short generation interval, high reproductive potential, rapid growth rate, genetic diversity and the ability to utilize forages and by-products as major diet components, that make them suitable as meat-producing small livestock in developing countries. Rabbit meat is of high quality, being high in protein and low in fat content. Rabbit production can be integrated into small farming systems, with the rabbits being fed crop residues, weeds, waste fruits and vegetables, etc.; the manure can be used as fertilizer for crops and gardens. Satisfactory cages, feeders and other equipment for rabbits can be made using readily available materials such as split bamboo and raffia palm. Limitations to rabbit production in developing countries include the susceptibility of the animals to heat stress, and the degree of management skill necessary to raise rabbits …
Total citations
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