The effect of adding garlic powder to the feed of local fatted rabbits on production parameters and blood biochemical traits

Abstract The aim was to evaluate the effect of the addition of garlic powder to the feed of young rabbits (kittens) on production parameters (incl. growth) and blood biochemical traits. Twelve local Iraqi rabbit kittens were selected (4-5 weeks of age) with an average weight of 330±5 grams. Each kitten was housed individually in a cage (1.5 x 2.0m) to ensure they had free access to feed and water. The kittens were divided into three groups of four according to three feeding trials (T1, T2 and T3) to evaluate production efficiency. The kittens were fed a controlled ration containing crude protein (16.6%) and metabolizable energy (2791Kcal/kg feed), with 1% garlic powder (dry weight; g/kg) added to the control ration of T2, and 2% to T3 (T1 was the control group, i.e. without garlic powder). The total weight gain, feed consumption rate and feed conversion ratio were calculated. Blood samples were obtained from all the kittens at the end of the trial period to determine specific blood biochemical traits, including total protein, triglyceride, cholesterol and glucose. At the end of experiment, the control ration was found to have a statistically significant (p≤0.05) effect on almost all production parameters and blood biochemical traits. It was shown that there was a statistically significant (p≤0.05) reduction in total weight gain, cholesterol, glucose, triglyceride, ALT and AST in those kittens fed with the added garlic powder.