The Reproductive Success of Farmed American Mink (Neovison Vison) – A Review

Abstract

The aim of this review was to define the most important factors that affect the reproductive success of farmed mink. The biology of mink reproduction is unique when comparing it with other farmed fur animals. The article emphasizes the importance of optimal environmental conditions in prevention of reproductive disorders. The novel attempts to the mating schedule, optimal diet and body condition of dams, kits transfer between dams, these are only examples of advantageous procedures used in mink farming to increase the effectiveness of reproduction.

Environmental and Genetic Factors Influencing the Rearing Performance in Mink (Neovison Vison)

“…The mortality of the kits during the rearing period consists of many factors, including the following: the birth of dead or weak kits, too low birth weight, which usually occurs with large litters; insufficient maternal care, which is also associated with too low milk yield, inflammation of the mammary gland (mastitis), and the very common so-called "wet nest" syndrome associated with diarrhea [Hunter 2008]. Most of the losses of kits (from 60% to 70%) occur within the first seven days of birth [Ludwiczak and Stanisz 2019]. Schneider and Hunter [1993] found that 91% of kits fall within the first three days after birth.…”

“…Mink fur is dense, warm and healthy. This is why mink is the most popular fur animal farmed in Poland [Ludwiczak and Stanisz 2019]. As a result of breeding work carried out on farms, the fertility of mink is significantly higher compared to free-living animals.…”

The Effects of Prenatal Supplementation with β-Hydroxy-β-Methylbutyrate and/or Alpha-Ketoglutaric Acid on the Development and Maturation of Mink Intestines Are Dependent on the Number of Pregnancies and the Sex of the Offspring

“…In mink, it is observed that the first litter size is smaller compared to subsequent litters and that the reproductive performance of females increases up to a certain age and then decreases. Thus the parity and the level of milk production in lactating females are also cited among the factors that determine weaning success and kit survival in mink [14]. Information regarding the intrauterine programming of phenotype in farm animals, especially fur animals, is still limited.…”

“…Information regarding the intrauterine programming of phenotype in farm animals, especially fur animals, is still limited. Any restriction in maternal dietary protein levels decreases fetal protein plasma concentrations, including those of amino acids such as glutamine, proline, alanine, and arginine, which results in further retardation of growth and development [14][15][16]. From this perspective feed additives like β-hydroxy-βmethylbutyrate (HMB) and alpha-ketoglutaric acid (AKG) have potential health benefits.…”

“…However, lower nutrient digestibility can adversely affect the reproductive performance of female mink, resulting in higher rates of infertile females and lower birth weights compared to animals fed a diet with optimal digestibility. In addition, mink feed, which is a concentrated source of protein, has a high moisture content and is finely ground, making it an excellent environment for the growth of pathogenic bacteria [14]. Due to the short digestive tract of carnivores and the rapid rate of food passage in the intestines feed intake is largely determined by the quality of gastrointestinal tract structures.…”