Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Onset of Caecotrophy in Rabbits
Caecotrophy begins in the young rabbit at about ______ weeks of age.
- 1
- 2
- 3 — Correct Answer
- 5
Explanation:
Correct Answer: 3 weeks
At approximately 3 weeks of age, rabbit kits begin transitioning from strict milk dependence to solid plant material. As their hindgut microbial population stabilises and they start eating solid feed, they instinctively begin caecotrophy — ingesting soft caecal pellets (cecotropes) to recover microbial protein, B-vitamins, and unabsorbed nutrients.
Caecotrophy in Rabbits — Key Facts from Notes
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Onset of caecotrophy | 3 weeks of age |
| Type of faeces | Hard faeces during day; Soft faeces (cecotropes) during night |
| Also known as | Coprophagy, Pseudo-rumination, Refection |
Consequences of Preventing Caecotrophy
- Decreased digestibility of food
- Decreased protein utilization
- Decreased nitrogen retention
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
