Determine the commercial rearing methods for Common Palm Civets
This study evaluated suitable rearing methods for commercial common palm civets (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus). Thirty weaned civets from 2 to 10 months of age were assigned to two treatments: individual caging and group housing (five animals per cage). Growth performance, body measurements, and economic efficiency were assessed. No significant differences were observed between treatments during 2 - 7 months. From 8 months onward, individually caged civets exhibited significantly higher body weight (3.43 kg at 10 months) and average daily gain (11.36 g/day) compared with group-housed animals. Head and body length did not differ, but group-housed civets showed longer tails and higher tail-to-body ratios, reflecting greater activity. Economic analysis revealed higher profitability in the individual caging system, with net income of 1.952.933 VND/animal versus 1.640.933 VND/animal in group housing. The findings indicate that individual caging optimizes growth, shortens rearing duration and enhances economic efficiency, making it the recommended method for commercial civet production.
