Effect of Hemiovariectomy on reproductive performance in Chinchila Rabbits.
This work evaluates the effects of hemiovariectomi (37 some reproductive indices such as conception rate, birth weight and birth litter size in Chinchilla breed of rabbits. Thirty females and six males were used for the experiment. The males were examined for breeding soundness before using them to cross the females. The experiment was replicated in two batches of three groups of five females and a male each at different periods. Hemi-ovariectomy was carried out in the right ovary of 10 does (Group A) and left ovary of another 10 does (Group B). Ten females in Group C were not ovariectomised and served as the control group. All groups were served at reproductive maturity by rotating the bucks. Pregnancy was diagnosed using a standard method. The reproductive indices evaluated included conception rate, birth weight and birth litter size. Data were analyzed using percentages, ratios, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) was computed where necessary. Results showed that hemi ovariectomy significantly (P<0.01) reduced the mean litter size, Group A (2.50+58), Group B (3.00+0.71), control (Group C) (6.20+0.84). However, there was increased mean litter birth weight which, differed significantly (P<0.01) from that of the control (27.06), Group A (33.64+1.86) and Group B (33.93=1.75). Also, the conception rate in the treated groups averaged 65% while the control was 80%. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) between the groups in the interval from the introduction of the huck to the does to the time of conception. It is concluded thai hemiovariectomy has negative effect on the conception rate and birth litter size but has positive effect on birth litter weight. The procedure has shown that in highly priced breed of animal with unilateral ovarian uilments such an animal can still be used for breeding using the healthy ovary: The procedure could also be a more reliable method of birth control in pet animals as well as a means of producing heavy weight offspring.