Effect of bovine rumen content meal on growth, carcass, and gut parameters in rabbits

The rising cost and competition for conventional feedstuffs between humans and livestock necessitate the exploration of non-conventional alternatives to improve economic efficiency in animal feeding. This study evaluated the use of bovine rumen content (BRC) as a feed ingredient in rabbit diets. A total of 36 weaned crossbred rabbits, aged five weeks, were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments (T1–T4) with 0%, 20%, 30%, and 40% BRC inclusion levels, respectively. Each treatment had three replicates in a completely randomized design. The experiment assessed growth performance, carcass traits, and gut characteristics. Results showed that daily feed intake increased significantly (P < 0.001) with higher BRC levels, indicating improved palatability or nutrient drive. However, weight gain and feed conversion ratio were not significantly affected (P > 0.05), suggesting that BRC inclusion did not negatively impact growth efficiency. Significant differences (P < 0.001) were observed in live weight, carcass weight, and dressing percentage, with higher values recorded at increased BRC levels. Among the carcass components, thigh, skin, head, loin, rack, and shoulder weights varied significantly across treatments. Internal organ weights revealed significant differences (P < 0.001) in kidney weight and large intestine length, while lung weight also differed (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found in small intestine length, abdominal fat, heart, liver, tail, or feet weights. Importantly, no mortality was recorded during the trial. In conclusion, BRC can be included in rabbit diets up to 40% without adverse effects on performance or carcass characteristics, making it a promising alternative feed resource. Further research is recommended to explore other rumen content sources for broader application in rabbit nutrition.