Effect of berry polysaccharide supplementation (SR-201) on the welfare, reproductive and productive performance of the rabbit

Polysaccharide is biologically active molecules that may have beneficial effects for human and animal health. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of berry polysaccharide on welfare, reproductive and productive performance of the rabbit. Twentytwo New Zealand White does were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 11) and were fed with commercial feed (control) or berry polysaccharide supplementation (SR-201). After 30 days of dietary adaptation, animals were submitted to artificial insemination. The litters (n = 12) continued to eat the same feed of does until 90d of age. Reproductive and productive parameters as well as metabolic hormones and metabolites were evaluated. The SR-201 group showed a higher fertility rate (P < 0.05), milk production (P < 0.001), litter weight at 20d (P < 0.01), number of kits at 20 (P < 0.05) and 35d (P < 0.01) and lower pre-weaning mortality (P < 0.01) compared to control groups. Does of SR-201 group also showed lower concentration of cortisol (P < 0.01). Based on these results, we can assume that berry polysaccharide supplementation SR-201 increases the welfare of the animals and improves the fertility of the doe. Further investigations are needed to confirm these results.