Influence of supplementing Rabbit Diets with Eucalyptus Leaves, Marjoram, and Artemisia Powders or Their Mixture on Productive Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Economic Efficiency

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of eucalyptus leaves, marjoram, and artemisia powders and their mixture on growth performance, carcass traits, blood parameters, digestibility coefficients, and economic performance of rabbits. Twenty-five rabbits (initial weight 857 ± 49.25 g), aged 5–13 weeks were randomly assigned to five experimental groups. Five dietary treatments were formulated, including a basal diet (control, T1), a basal diet supplemented with eucalyptus powder at 10 g/50 kg feed (T2), marjoram powder at 17.5 g/50 kg feed (T3), artemisia powder at 250 g/50 kg (T4), and a mixture of eucalyptus (5 g), marjoram (10 g), and artemisia (125 g) powders per 50 kg feed (T5). Final live body weight, or total body weight gain (BWG) showed no significant differences. Significant improvements (P<0.01) were observed in total feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and total protein intake. The T2 group showed the lowest total feed intake, along with the best feed conversion ratio and the highest protein intake compared with the other treatments. Digestibility data revealed enhancements (P<0.01) in the utilization of crude fiber and ether extract, particularly in T3 and T5, while crude protein and nitrogen-free extract remained stable. Blood parameters were within normal ranges; T2 and T5 exhibited higher albumin, lower urea and creatinine, and favorable liver enzyme profiles, indicating improved protein metabolism and kidney and liver health. Carcass traits were unaffected, though liver percentage was highest and abdominal fat lowest in T5 compared to other groups. Economic analysis showed that the T2 achieved the highest net revenue and efficiency, whereas T5 was least efficient. Dietary supplementation with Eucalyptus or artemisia powders can be used to enhance nutrient utilization, growth, health, and profitability of rabbits.