Evaluation of Olive Leaves and Pomace Extracts in Growing Rabbit Diets on Productive Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Carcass Characteristics, Antioxidant Status and Economic Efficiency

Abstract

This study aimed to detect how supplementing olive leaves extract (OLE) and olive pomace extract (OPE) to growing rabbit diets has affected productive performance, nutrient digestibility, carcass characteristics, antioxidant status, and economic efficiency. At 42 days of age, 75 APRI growing rabbits were separated into five groups, 15 rabbits each. Control (without additives), OLE1 (200ppm of OLE), OLE2 (400ppm of OLE), OPE1 (200ppm of OPE), and OPE2 (400ppm of OPE) were the experimental diets. Throughout the trial, we computed feed consumption and increase in body weight on a weekly basis. Compared to the control group, the body weight, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio of rabbits fed OLE or OPE were significantly (P<0.05). The digestibility coefficient of crude protein-enhanced significantly (P<0.05) in rabbits fed OLE or OPE than in control rabbits. In addition to using OLE or OPE, the percentage of the carcass was improved dramatically (P<0.05). Total antioxidant capacity, Superoxide dismutase, and catalase levels were significantly (P<0.05) raised with OLE or OPE, while malondialdehyde levels were lowered. In conclusion, supplementing rabbit diets with 200 or 400ppm of OLE or OPE enhanced productive performance and antioxidant status without any negative effect on their health.