Growth Comparism of (Rabbits) Oryctolagus Cuniculus Linn Fed Selected Rations

Abstract

Research work on growth rate of rabbits was conducted to assess the contributions of selected rations to the weight gain of rabbits. Forty-eight growing rabbits of the same age and nearly the same size were acquired and grouped into four representing four treatments. Treatment A, Tridax procumbence; Treatment B, Aspilia sagitate; Treatment C, Leuceana leucocephala and Treatment D, Growers mash (Pellet form)  as Control. The rabbits were housed in disinfected hutches. The research was set in completely randomized design with three replicates. The research work was carried-out at the Rabbitary section of Livestock Farm of Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, Headquarters, Ibadan, Nigeria. Initial weights of the animals were taken before placing them on experimental rations. Group A was placed on Treatment A, Group B on Treatment B, Group C on Treatment C and Group D on Treatment D. Parameters measured were Feed Consumption Rate, Feed Preference and Body Weight Gain of the Animals. Weekly record was taken on the parameters set for eight weeks. Eighteen kilogram of feed was given to the animals across the treatments in the first week, 20 Kg in week 2, 22 Kg in week 3, 24 Kg in week 5, 26 Kg in week 6, 28 Kg in week 7 and 30 Kg in week 8. Data collected was subjected to statistical proof using SPSS package. Two Hypotheses were set; Hypothesis One: There is difference in feed consumption among the rabbits and Hypothesis Two: There is difference in average weight among the rabbits. The ANOVA showed that there was no significant difference at feed consumption at (F = 1.034, p ˃ 0.05) and average weight of the rabbits at (F = 0.551, p ˃ 0.05). Hence Null Hypotheses were taken for the two sets. The beta coefficient of feed consumption of rabbits is 0.019 and is statistically significant with implication that for each 1% increase in the feed consumption of rabbits, the weight of rabbits would increase by 1.9%. Treatment D was recorded the most consumed numerically and considered the feed preferred by the rabbits. It was concluded that all feeds are good for weight gain if proper and effective management practices are observed. And that both forages and compounded feed should be given to rabbits simultaneously for balanced physique and nutritional fitness.