Influence of Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) Supplementation in Feed on Fattening Rabbit’s Performance

Abstract

diets on growth performance. 30 rabbits from New Zealand breed, on 55 days of age (±2) were randomly allocated to three experimental groups for 47 days (until reach 2100g of body weight). The experimental design consisted of three dietary treatments: 1) control group received standard compound feed - unsupplemented; 2) the first experimental group (M3) received diet supplemented with 3% thyme leaves powder instead of alfalfa hay; 3) the second experimental group (M5) received diet supplemented with 5% thyme leaves powder instead of alfalfa hay. Individual rabbits’ body weights were recorded weekly. Feed intake and feed conversion rate were determined weekly per group. Carcass characteristics were determinate at the end of the trail. The results of this study have shown that thyme inclusion at level up to 3 or 5% did not adversely affect rabbit’s performance.