18% to 16%

[3TAC]

Does anyone feed 18% protein pellet for faster weight gain on weaned/growing buns and then transition them to a 16% when they reach their mature weight?

 

[CedarRidge]

We used to feed 16% but recently switched to 18%. Our plan to control weight gain on our older buns is to ration the feed or go to hay only. May eventually have to go back to 16% for them but really don't want to have to deal with 2 types of pellets. I will say by going to 18% we are already seeing much improved kit growth rates.

 

[Gemma]

I wonder curiously why these numbers specifically?

 

[3TAC]

I wonder curiously why these numbers specifically?

Only because 16% and 18% are the two protein levels that are most available in the pellets that are stocked in my area.
I was contemplating options that are most readily available for my operation, in areas that I frequent. It is a personal preference to support locally to keep the money exchanging maybe a turn or two more locally. Hopefully benefitting more of my neighbors and local economy.

 

[McNally Family Rabbitry]

We use Purina RBZ Rabbit Performance Blend and have excellent growth rates. Here is the info I found on it

Guaranteed Analysis:
Crude Protein (Min) 17% Vit A (Min) 8,000 IU/KG
Crude Fat (Min) 2.5% Vit D (Min) 2,000 IU/KG
Crude Fibre (Max) 18% Vit E (Min) 40 IU/KG
Calcium (Act) 1% Sodium (Act) 0.25%
Phosphorus (Act) 0.6%
This feed contains added selenium at 0.1 MG/KG

 

[Mckatie]

I've always fed 18%. However, after I switched from my old brand to a new brand; my growth rate increased. So if one were to decrease from 18% to 16% in the future; my question would be "What other notable changes are in the feed?"

 

[CokeZero]

I've always fed 18%. However, after I switched from my old brand to a new brand; my growth rate increased. So if one were to decrease from 18% to 16% in the future; my question would be "What other notable changes are in the feed?"

Depends on the feed honestly. The only notable difference there is really the protein percentage, but different brands have different ingredients. There's many factors we can't necessarily answer without knowing the brands/specific feeds used.

 

[Mckatie]

Depends on the feed honestly. The only notable difference there is really the protein percentage, but different brands have different ingredients. There's many factors we can't necessarily answer without knowing the brands/specific feeds used.

Exactly.