The influence of weaning weight on post-weaning growth rate I will attempt to illustrate the influence of weaning weight on post-weaning growth rate using data that we have collected over the last four years in our rabbitry. The data presented below originates from approximately 1200 weaning and 12-week-old test weights. I am in no way suggesting that this will be exactly the same in all situations however the principles should remain the same.   The weight of rabbits at weaning has a significant influence on the post-weaning growth of the grower rabbits. The relationship between average weaning weight of the litter and average daily gain (ADG in grams per day) is illustrated in Figure 1.   Figure 1. The relationship between average weaning weight of the litter and the average daily gain of the grower rabbits post-weaning   Using the relationship observed in Figure 1 we can examine these issues in more detail. At this point in time the general target for grower rabbits is 3kg at 12 weeks. To achieve this target we need a lifetime growth rate of 35.7 grams per day and an average weaning weight of 665 grams.   Alternative we estimate the financial benefits from increasing average weaning weight by 100 grams. If we were to improve average weaning weight from 500 to 600 grams we would have an average increase in grower growth rate of 2.2 grams per day. This equates to 185 grams per rabbit over a 12-week growth period. At $2.60 per kilogram liveweight this results in $0.48 extra return per rabbit. Research in rabbits and other domestic livestock species has illustrated that animals with higher growth rates are also the more efficient animals in respect to feed conversion ratio. Although I cannot provide direct evidence that these improvements in growth rate will result in an additional 48 cents profit per rabbit it can be assumed that a large proportion of this amount will be actual profit.   Average weaning weight can be increased by improvements in three main areas.   Genetic potential of the rabbits, both directly through growth rate and maternally through the does mothering ability, Nutrition of the doe during both pregnancy and lactation, Environmental conditions including temperature, health and nest box quality.   The cost of these improvements varies and detailed cost/benefit analysis is required to identify the best approach for each individual rabbitry. This analysis should also consider the fact that genetic improvements in growth rate and maternal ability are permanent and maintenance free.