The blood biochemical profiles in algerian rabbits of the semiarid region of aures (Algeria) at different physiological stages

In recent years, several works have examined the reproductive traits of Algerian local population rabbit does but no standardization study has been done on the plasmatic parameters of this population of rabbits reared in the Aures region during their different physiological stages. Therefore, the present study evaluated the effect of these on certain blood parameters in local rabbit does. Methods: The rabbit does (n=120) were randomly divided into 4 treatment groups; Empty (E), Pregnant (P), Pregnant lactating (P-L) and Lactating (L). Does were first mated at the age of 16.5 weeks with an average body weight of 3107.1 ± 53.5g and with body condition scoring (BCS) of loin and rump ranging from 2 to 3 on a scale of 1-5 following a 42-day rhythm. Four blood samples were collected from females of five rabbits in each group viz. E, P, P-L and L respectively. Results: Milk yield differs significantly (p<0.05) between the two experimental groups (P-L and L). Litter size and litter weight of does at birthing was higher (p<0.01) in L group than in P and P-L groups. That the mean levels glucose in non-pregnant group recorded as 0.22 ± 0.04g/l which was increased 3^rd week of pregnancy (0.65 ± 0.1 g/l followed by low mean value 0.35 + 0.2g/l and 0.4+0.1g/l at pregnant lactating and lactating stages of experimental rabbits. The lowest level of protein was recorded in the second week of pregnancy (p<0.05). The increase in total protein, albumin and globulin concentrations in lactating group might be physiological. Concerning total lipids, there was a strong mobilization of body fat in pregnant females (97 mg/dl ± 0.10; p<0.05). However, a marked decrease (p<0.05) was recorded in cholesterolemia in lactating females. Regarding triglyceridemia, we have recorded a significant raise (37.7 ± 35.6; p<0.001) in pregnant females. The creatinine value recorded was close to the physiological norms 1.3–2.7 mg/dl vs 1.08–0.92 mg/dl. T3 plasma levels were lower (p<0.05) in lactating females' group. Pregnant and lactating does showed an increase (p<0.05) of leptin level. The higher (p<0.05) progesterone levels in pregnant and pregnant-lactating does than its concentrations in empty and lactating does might be attributed to maintaining pregnancy. Therefore, the current study confirms that the analysis of metabolites represents a good tool to understand the physiological mechanisms.