The estimation of preweaning energy intake from litter mass in rats

Author: M.M. Scholtz and C.Z. Roux
Year: 1980
Issue: 2
Volume: 10
Page: 233 - 235

An estimate of the total energy intake of litters until weaning, including both energy obtained in-utero and that derived post-natally from milk consumed, is often required in experiments on growth efficiency. Frequently it is, however, impossible to measure this energy directly. Consequently, a method was developed using litter mass to estimate the cumulative energy intake by rats to weaning. An equation was also developed to divide this cumulative energy intake of a litter between the individuals of the litter.

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