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Environmental Husbandry Manual Click here for CONTENTS Page No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written permission of the author - For contact details see about the author |
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Individual Methods for Feeding
Methods - Practices
Whole Mammalian Carcass Feeds
The practices outlined in this section relate to methods of food presentation that do not require the use of special materials or devices. Scatter feeds, use of specific locations, and methods of ensuring that specific animals receive required medications and dietary supplements are dealt with.
Whole Mammalian Carcass Feeds |
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| Method | Whole carcass (including fur) of rodents, rabbits, portions of goat, horse, pig, etc. with bones and skin. Intestines should be removed before feeding, unless the carcass is extremely fresh. | |
| Species | Carnivores. | |
| Purpose | To provide for behavioural needs, and both oral and general health. A carcass in itself is a food puzzle, as the animal must figure out the best way to unwrap it, get the unwanted bits out of the way, and eat the desired parts. | |
| Pro | Natural foods, which promote the performance of natural feeding techniques. (See Law et al 1997). | |
| Con | The public may complain if they can see a ‘pet’ rabbit or similar animal being eaten, but with educational signs can be made to understand that carnivores eat other animals. | |
| Improvements | -- | |
| Comments | Intestines must be removed from carcasses being frozen for storage, as bacteria continue to multiply in the guts after the outer surface has frozen. Dietary supplements can be given rubbed into the carcass. Bonemeal is not used at Edinburgh Zoo, due to the risk of BSE contamination. In group fed animals, dominants will select parts such as liver, leading to Ketosis from Vitamin A overdose in the long term. | |
| Frequency of Use | Once or Twice per Week. | |
| Ratings | Usefulness | 10 |
| Convenience | 10 | |
| Value For Money | 10 | |
| Range of Users | 10 | |
| Contributed By | Carnivore Section | |