Abstract
Rabbits can develop anemia due to serial phlebotomy or secondary to induced disease states. This study evaluated the effects of a single injection and three consecutive injections of erythropoietin in rabbits at 150 IU/kg and 1,000 IU/kg in order to determine whether these dosages produce a sustained increase in hematocrit. Analysis of CBC and chemistry parameters showed significant elevation in hematocrit one week after administration of 1,000 IU/kg erythropoietin for three consecutive days. These results indicate that this dosage regimen can increase hematocrit in apparently healthy, nonanemic rabbits for one week.