ABSTRACT

This study aimed to find the optimal feeding frequency for the performance of growth crossbred rabbits. The experiment included 24 post-weaning growth crossbred rabbits with an average weight of 473 g/per and was also arranged in a completely randomized design with 4 treatments, and 3 replications. Two rabbits including 1 male and 1 female were in one experimental unit (a cage). Four treatments were different feeding times/day: T1 (feed 1 time/day), T2 (feed 2 times/day), T3 (feed 3 times/day), and T4 (feed 4 times/day). The experiment was divided into three stages: the first stage (30-60 days old), the second stage (60 – 90 days old), and the third stage (90 – 120 days old). In the second week of each stage, the feeding behaviors, faeces and urine were recorded for 2 days continued. The results showed that the total feeding times were an average of 22-31 times/day and the feeding intake time lasted 3-4 mins/time during the different three stages. Rabbits have an increased tendency to feed intake more in the evening than in the morning. When feeding twice a day (T2), there were higher results in terms of weight gain (P>0.05), final weight (P>0.05), FCR (P>0.05), and the highest economic returns compared to other treatments. 

Key words: Daily weight gain, feeding behavior, growth rabbits.