Haematological values during normal reproduction of the maternal and the fetal rabbit

Changes in Clinical Pathology Parameters During Gestation in the New Zealand White Rabbit

“…The decreases in MCHC noted on days 25 and 28 may reflect a decrease in iron content in the mature erythrocyte and the reticulocyte populations, which would be compatible with changes observed in pregnant women (33). Decreased iron levels have been reported during the last week of gestation in rabbits (32).…”

“…In the present study, reticulocyte numbers increased up to day 16 (33). Decreased iron levels have been reported during the last week of gestation in rabbits (32).…”

Clinical Biochemistry and Hematology

“…For example, lower erythrocyte counts are reported in young rabbits of less than 12 weeks old (Melillo, 2007). Interestingly, the red blood cell count in a 28-day fetus is similar to that of the doe (Kriesten et al, 1987). The sex of the rabbit has been reported to have little or no effect on hematologic values (Jain, 1986).…”

“…Leukocyte counts are low in rabbits less than 12 weeks old and then gradually increase to maximum values by 3-6 months old (Jain, 1986;Melillo, 2007). Interestingly, the total white blood cell count in the 28-day rabbit fetus is also much lower than that of adult rabbits (Kriesten et al, 1987). A bimodal increase in leukocytes has been reported in rabbits, with the first peak at 3 months old, representing primarily lymphocytes, and the final peak at over 1 year old, due to an increase in neutrophils (Jain, 1986).…”

“…The platelet count in a 28-day rabbit fetus is significantly lower than that of the doe (Kriesten et al, 1987). Cold stress may cause an increase in platelets in rabbits (de la Fuente et al, 2007).…”