Examination of mink (Mustela vison) fed a sulphuric acid preserved fish during lactation and growth period. I. A clinical-chemical examination.

Addition of sulphuric acid preserved fish in great amounts as fur animal feed has a serious influence on the metabolism of the animals. The present experimental work shows that several clinical-chemical parameters are changed during feeding of acid preserved feed resulting in changes of the fluid-, electrolyte- and acid-base balance as well as in the immunological status. The changes are most probably due to changes also found in the organ functions. The present work together with earlier investigations by the authors has formed the scientific background for the use of acid preserved fish silage in mink during the last 10 years. This has made it possible to out-distance the competitors further, both with respect to fur quality and feeding costs.