Be Careful with Nutrient Supplements

Balance is just as important as amount

by Dr. Ron Rompala

There is a saying that goes "you can never get too much of a good thing". This saying does not hold true for nutrition. All rabbits do not have the same nutrient requirements. A lactating doe needs more protein than an idle buck. Rabbits housed in temperatures of 60 degrees F will need less energy than those kept at 45 degrees F. There will be differences in nutrient requirements among the different breeds. So should all rabbits be given the same feed and supplements? Several things need to be considered.

There is an ideal amount of a nutrient that will contribute to optimal performance. Feeding significantly less than that amount leads to a deficiency state. On the other hand, too much above the ideal level can lead to a toxic state. For some nutrients, a toxicity state can be reached at levels only slightly above ideal levels. Feeding rabbits supplemental selenium, copper, vitamin A or vitamin D should be conducted with caution and under guidance from a nutritional expert.

Completely pelleted feeds provide are designed to provide a balance of nutrients to rabbits. Feeds will vary in the amount of protein, fiber and energy. The proper feed depends upon the several factors including the type (or if any) hay being fed, the number of meals fed daily, the production state of the rabbit (lactating doe, show animal, growing meat animal) and housing. Supplementation of vitamins and minerals is usually not necessary unless there are unusual situations or stress upon the rabbits. Remember that commercial feeds are designed to provide a balance of nutrients to the rabbits. Supplementation may create an imbalance of nutrients which in turn may create a bad situation.

© 2000. Blue Seal Feeds, Inc.

© Blue Seal Feeds – January, 2002