Uso de manta térmica reciclada como material para construção de abrigos em sistema de produção alternativo para coelhos

Abstract

Rabbit farming, easy to implement and low-cost, has the potential for meat and byproduct production. Rabbits are sensitive to inadequate management, with heat stress being a challenge in tropical regions with high temperatures and humidity, negatively impacting growth, immunity, and productivity. This study evaluates the performance, physiological and behavioral variables of rabbits with Tetra Pak huts versus without shelter. The experiment took place at the Federal Rural University of the Amazon, in Parauapebas, from August to September 2024, with six weaned crossbred rabbits, housed individually in ventilated cages. Two treatments (n=3): cages with Tetra Pak huts and a control group. Huts were built with recycled Tetra Pak milk cartons and wooden slats. Data collection included performance (weight, weight gain, consumption, conversion), physiological (body and environmental temperatures, humidity, hut temperatures), and behavioral (idleness, exploration, feeding, hygiene, time in shelter) variables. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and the t-Student test; behavioral data were expressed as frequencies. Ambient temperature exceeded the thermal comfort of the rabbits. The internal temperature of the Tetra Pak huts varied with the external temperature. Rabbits with shelter had significantly higher final weight (747.00 g vs. 663.00 g), greater total weight gain (503.50 g vs. 435.00 g), higher ADG (16.78 g/day vs. 14.50 g/day), and better feed conversion ratio (3.08 vs. 3.44) with no difference in consumption. Rabbits with shelter showed greater final body length (20.00 cm vs. 18.00 cm) and greater gain in length (5.00 cm vs. 2.33 cm). Body temperatures did not show significant differences, but rabbits without shelter tended to be warmer in the afternoon. Significant use of the shelter was observed. Shelters made from recycled Tetra Pak packaging proved effective in mitigating heat stress in rabbits, positively influencing zootechnical performance (higher final weight, weight gain, ADG, better feed conversion ratio, and greater body development) without altering instinctive behavior. The use of recycled materials emerges as a viable and sustainable alternative for rabbit farming in hot regions, contributing to animal welfare and productive efficiency.