Published in Scientific Papers. Series D. Animal Science, Vol. LVIII
Written by Nicolae STANCIU, Elena POPESCU-MICLOȘANU, Minodora TUDORACHE
This paper aims to disseminate the wider application of knowledge on the welfare of rabbits, considering the majority of the factors that contribute to it. Its development was based on scientific literature, the European legislation on the protection and welfare of animals and the Code of good practice for growing rabbits. To ensure the welfare of animals a number of factors that contribute to the comfort of their condition should be considered, such as nutrition and optimum microclimate factors, selection of parent lines for calm temperament and maternal skills, specific accommodation conditions operating system used, appropriate sanitation, eliminating stress caused by improper handling, noise etc. According to these data, harboring rabbits should be made in cages of welded wire mesh whose floor has to be flat, not thinner than 2.032 mm, mesh size 19x19 mm in case of square mesh and 75x12,5 mm, if rectangular. The floor made of mesh wire with too thin mesh and too big or rough welds can cause feet problems. It is recommended that for a normal position of the animal in the cage so that they can keep their ears erect and make install, the height of the cage should be 45 cm and the temperature of the shelter between 10-20°C depending on the category of animal. Knowing and applying of all welfare conditions in addition to eliminating the discomfort and stress also influences the quantity and quality of rabbit products. Given the literature is still quite poor and fragmented, it is necessary to continue research into breeding and exploitation of rabbits, their handling during transport and slaughter, and improving their welfare standards.
[Read full article] [Citation]
Code of good practice
