Studies on haematology, biochemistry and some physiological parameters of weaned rabbits fed graded level of garlic (Allium sativum L.) as additives

Abstract

The study examines the effects of garlic (Allium sativum L.) as a supplementary phytogenic feed additive using 246-week old hybrid (Chinchilla x New Zealand White) weaner rabbits of both sexes with initial average weight of 0.52 kg which were divided into five groups of six rabbits each. The groups were randomly assigned to the four treatment diets containing 0g (control), 0.20g, 0.40g, 0.60g and 0.80g powdered garlic respectively. There were significant (P<0.05) differences in most haematological parameters (RBC, Hb, PCV, MCV, MCH and MCHC) measured. A significant (P<0.05) improvement of RBC was observed when 0.20g garlic was supplemented, but however decreased with increasing level. WBC, total protein, globulin, albumin, glucose, cholesterol and urea showed significant (P<0.05) difference with higher increased of total protein at 0.40g in garlic supplementation. The values of pulse rate show a significant (P <0.05) difference with higher increase at 0.40g garlic supplementation while the rectal temperature and respiratory rate where not affected by garlic supplementation (P<0.05). The supplementation of powdered garlic as feed additive could be used for treatment of rabbit’s diseases and used as antibiotics.