Effects of golden flaxseed supplementation on the performance and feed digestibility of rabbits

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of different levels of golden flax (Linus usitatissimum L.) seeds (GFS) on rabbit performance and nutrient utilisation. The trial was carried out on 30 crossbred rabbits that were randomly allocated to 3 groups each with 10 animals (5 male and 5 female rabbits each), kept separate in individual cages. Three diets were formulated with increasing levels (0, 8, or 16%) of GFS. The experimental period lasted 5 weeks and the faeces were collected during the last week. No obvious health problems were encountered during the experiment. The measured parameters were growth performances and digestibility of Dry Matter (DM), Organic Matter (OM), Crude Protein (CP), Crude Fibre (CF), Ether Extract (EE), Nitrogen Free Extract (NFE), Neutral Detergent Fibre (NDF), Acid Detergent Fibre (ADF) and Gross Energy (GE). The weight gain and food intake did not differ significantly (p>0.05) among the dietary treatments. The digestibility coefficients were calculated according to standard procedures following the indirect digestibility method, using acid insoluble ash as an inert marker. The apparent digestibility of the mixed feed with a GFS inclusion level of 16% was higher than those of the other 2 diets. It can be concluded that golden flaxseed can be given to rabbits at levels of up to 16% in the diet without any adverse effects on growth performance and with a better digestibility than the control diet.