The role of vitamin D in calcium regulation in rabbits differs from other species. Vitamin D does not appear to play the same regulatory role in intestinal absorption as in other mammals. Studies into chronic vitamin D deficiency in adult rabbits indicate that intestinal absorption of calcium is passive and efficient and does not require vitamin D
(Bourdeau el nl., 1986). However, vitamin D increases intestinal absorption of calcium and is required if dietary levels are low
(Tvedegaard, 1987; Brommage el nl., 1988).
In rabbits, vitamin D plays an important role in phophorus metabolism. Vitamin deficiency results in a reduction in intestinal absorption of phosphorus. Experimental studies have shown that chronic vitamin D deficiency can result in hypophosphataemia and osteomalacia
(Brommage el al., 1988).
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