GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF WEANER RABBITS FED GARLIC AND GINGER SUPPLEMENTED BASAL DIETS

Abstract

This study was carried out to investigate the growth performance of rabbits fed diets supplemented with garlic and ginger. Thirty-six (36) female Dutch weaner rabbits were randomly allotted into four dietary treatments of 9 rabbits and three replicates with three (3) rabbits per in a completely randomized design. The dietary treatments were designated as follows; control containing 0 g garlic and ginger (T1), 100 g garlic per 100 kg feed (T2), 100 g ginger per 100 kg feed (T3) and 50 g garlic + 50 g ginger per 100 kg feed (T4). Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance and significant differences were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test. The result showed that there were no significant differences (P>0.05) in the values obtained for average initial bodyweights. However, there were significant (P<0.05) differences in the values obtained for average final body weights, average body weight gains and feed conversion ratio. The highest average final body weight was observed on rabbits in T4 (1403.70 g), follow by T3 (1374.00 g) while the least value was observed on rabbits in T1 (1314.30 g). Rabbits in T4 had the highest daily feed consumed (53.29 g) while the least value was observed on rabbits in T1 (50.69 g). The best feed conversion ratio was recorded on rabbit in T4 (03.84), while the least value was observed on rabbits in T1 (04.25). In conclusion, garlic and ginger could be used up to 0.1% inclusion in rabbit diets without any adverse effect on growth performance