New Zealand White Rabbit (Meat & Laboratory Breed)

== **Physical Characteristics**

* **Coat:** Pure white, short, and dense with a smooth texture.

* **Eyes:** Distinctive **red/pink eyes** caused by albinism.

* **Size:** Medium to large, with adults weighing **4–5.5 kg (9–12 lbs)**.

* **Body Type:** Broad, muscular, and well-rounded, ideal for meat production.

* **Ears:** Upright, medium in length.

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== **Production Traits**

* **Meat:**

  * Renowned as one of the best **meat rabbit breeds** worldwide.

  * Produces tender, lean, high-protein meat.

  * High feed conversion efficiency and rapid growth rates make it profitable for farmers.

* **Reproduction:**

  * Very fertile, with large litters of **7–12 kits**.

  * Does are excellent mothers with good milk production.

* **Laboratory Use:**

  * Widely used in biomedical research, toxicology testing, and vaccine development due to its docile nature and genetic consistency.

* **Show & Pets:**

  * Also bred for exhibition, with their striking red eyes and pure white coats making them stand out.

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== **Adaptability**

* Thrives in intensive rabbit farming systems under proper management.

* Adapts well to cage or hutch systems.

* Sensitive to extreme heat; performs best in **cool to moderate climates**.

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== **Economic Importance**

* Considered the **world standard meat rabbit**, forming the foundation of many commercial rabbitries.

* Preferred breed in laboratories, giving it an additional economic niche.

* Its meat is in demand as a healthy, low-fat alternative protein.

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== **Advantages**

* Fast-growing and efficient feed converters.

* Large litters and good maternal performance.

* Dual-purpose (meat + laboratory use).

* Gentle, easy-to-handle temperament.

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== **Limitations**

* Requires careful management in hot climates due to heat stress.

* Albino trait (red eyes) may be less appealing to some pet owners.

* Needs strict hygiene to prevent diseases in intensive production.

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✅ **Summary:**

The **New Zealand White rabbit** is the most important rabbit breed for **meat and research purposes** worldwide. Known for its rapid growth, high fertility, and gentle disposition, it dominates commercial rabbitries and laboratory settings. With proper care, it is an efficient, profitable breed that has set the global standard for rabbit farming.

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