BIBLIOGRAPHY BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL ...
BIBLIOGRAPHY
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012. Carcass Yield from New Zealand White
Rabbit Fed with Different Forages. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet.
Adviser: Madeline S. Kingan, MSc.
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted at Meat Laboratory under Animal Science Department,
Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet from January 2012. This aimed to
determine the effect of the different forages as feed for rabbits in terms of slaughter and
carcass length of rabbit; to determine the lean and bone percentage; and to determine which
of the treatments produce the highest carcass yield. Fifty days old rabbits
were used in the study. Two rabbits from each treatment were slaughtered to represent
two replications. The source of rabbits were the previous growth study which utilized the
the following treatments; T₁ (Kikuyu grass + Sweet potato vine) T₂ (Perennial peanut +
Sweet potato vine) and (Kikuyu grass + Perennial peanut + Sweet potato vine).
Statistical analysis indicates that there were no significant differences between the
three treatments in terms of slaughter weight, carcass length, viscera weight, dressing
percentage, viscera percentage, lean and bone percentage, and bone to lean ratio.
Based on the result of this study, rabbit raisers can use forages as feed or in
combination to commercial feeds. The standardized feeding of pure forages is only good
for long term feeding. It is recommended that rabbits be fed for a minimum of eight to ten
weeks and above to attain good quality of the carcass.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
INTRODUCTION
Rabbit meats are not the most consumable because of its higher price and also it is
not known in our country. Rabbit production is seldom and there is no meat available in
the market. But rabbit meat or “lapan” is a very nutritious food suitable for patients under
special diets, low sodium diets, weight diet reduction, and for the aged. Rabbit meat is a
good source of protein that is excellent source of essential amino acids which are contained
in the amount needed by the body. In addition, rabbit meat has high quality that is often
considered a white meat and delicacy in taste.
The farmers could probably produce rabbit meat with low production costs, but in
fact have been raising rabbits with high feed costs. Their practice has been to feed the
rabbits low quality forages, natural or improved grasses, and commercial concentrates in
large amounts to solve the problem the rabbit should be improved by replacing the grass
with foliages higher protein content that can be found easily in the area (Lukefahr and
Cheeke, 1990).
This study was the carcass yield of rabbit fed with kikuyu grass and perennial
peanut. The result of the study can contribute or provide additional knowledge to the reader
and most especially to the raisers. This can also serve as a basis for another or further study.
Generally, this study was conducted to determine the carcass yield of rabbit fed
with different forages. Specifically it aimed to: determine the effect of the different forages
as feed supplement on rabbit in terms of slaughter and carcass length of rabbit, determine
the lean and bone percentage; and determine which of the treatment produce high carcass
yield.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
This study was conducted at the Meat Processing Laboratory under the Department
of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet
on January 2012
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Mears and Humphreys (1974) stated that kikuyu grass species has several attributes
as a tropical pasture, since then a vast amount of information has been produced regarding
to its agronomic characteristics, nutritional value, management and animal production
potential. Kikuyu is a highly digestible, high protein, low fiber, palatable grass which
responds readily to nitrogen, stands heavy grazing, holds soil against erosion and is an
excellent lawn grass. Kikuyu grass is essentially a high-quality grass for dairying and cattle
finishing in high-altitude areas of the tropical and subtropical world; a useful lawn grass
and soil fertilizer against erosion.
Gerpacio and Castillo (1979) The Nutrient requirement composition of Kikuyu
grass analyzed by the University of the Philippines College of Agriculture as follows:
Crude protein (3.61%), Crude fiber (3.51%), Ether extract (0.37%), Ash (2.11%), Nitrogen
free-extract (5.79%).
According to Bowman et.al, (1998) the nutritive value of Perennial peanut (Arachis
pinto) has crude protein of 13-25% dry matter digestibility of 60-70%.
Hammond et al. (1992) they found out that perennial peanut forage is a suitable
protein and energy supplement feed for cattle, especially for those on low protein grass
hay. Thus, (cattle, sheep, goats and rabbits) perennial peanut is very nutritious and well
liked. The nutritional quality of perennial peanut appears to be as good as alfalfa.
Devendra (1988) reported that the foliages are sources of dietary protein and can
provide variety in the diet for improved growth performance and reduced feed costs.
New Zealand is the most popular breed for commercial meat production, although
hybrids are gradually replacing purebreds. Weight of a full-grown New Zealand white is
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
4-5 kilogram with production of about 2 kilogram of meat at 8-10 weeks of age (Pond and
Pond, 2000).
In meat technology, meat is commonly defined as the flesh from the domesticated
animals. The composition of lean meat may be approximated as water 75 %, protein 18%,
soluble non- protein substance including mineral components 4%, and fat 3% (Norman,
1977).
Rabbit meat is white, fine grained, delicately flavoured, nutritious and appetizing.
The age of the larger roaster rabbits is six months and more. The meat from the rabbits
require simmering or longer and slower in covered pan. The size of the carcass is the fine
quality of the meat (Templeton, 1968). The major used of domestic rabbits is for meat
production. Medium and heavy weight breeds are best suited for meat production and the
breed of New Zealand white is suited for this purpose.
The rabbits are marketed when they reached fryer weight, which live weight is 3 to
6 pounds (1.36-2.7 kg). Live weights of 4 to 4.75 pounds (1.8-2.1 kg) produced the best
carcass with a dressing percent ranging from 50-59 % (Gillespie, 1997).
Rabbit meat also called “lapan”, is the primarily white meat that is very fine in
texture and has low fiber content. Because of the low fiber content, it is easy to digest
which is desirable for individuals who have difficulty chewing for their food (Warren,
2002).
Most rabbit are commercially raised for meat, fur, wool and for laboratory usage.
They are excellent converters of feed to meat and naturally produce more meat per pound
of female live weight than other animals. Rabbit has high-yielding carcass-over fifty
percent dressing percentage (Bade and Blakely, 1994).
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Nowadays, people are health conscious particularly what they eat. As much as
possible, the food that they will eat should free from any toxic substance or chemical
residues which hazardous to human health. Therefore, organically products, meat or
vegetable is become popular (Coma, 2000).
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Experimental Materials
The materials used in the study are 3 month-old rabbits, weighing scale, bolo or
knife, pail, basin, chopping board, record book, tape measure and camera.
Experimental Treatments
The source of rabbits for this study was the previous growth study which utilized
from the following treatments:
T₁ –50% Kikuyu grass + 50% Sweet potato vine
T₂ - 50% Perennial peanut + 50% Sweet potato vine
T₃ – 25% Kikuyu grass + 25% Perennial peanut + 50% Sweet potato vine
Two rabbits from each treatment were slaughtered to represent two replications.
Slaughtering of Rabbits
The rabbits were slaughtered upon reaching the age of three months. Before the
animals were slaughtered, they were not offered any amount of forage. During
slaughtering, the rabbit was suspended by its hind leg. With his left hand, the butchers hold
the head firmly and his right hand holds a sharp knife and then broke the neck and cut
behind the head to drain the blood. When the blood was drained, cuttings were continued
across the back of the head down to the tip of the jaw including all of the thick fur covering
the neck and jaw. After the butcher loosened the flesh at the side of the hocks with his
fingers preparatory to skinning the carcass; cut the tail at its base the two front legs above
the joint at least half inch high. The skin was pulled down from the
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
carcass until it was pulled off whole like a sock. A slit was made on the rabbit’s flesh from
the rectum down the breast taking care not to puncture the intestine.
Data Gathered
1. Slaughter weight (kg). This was the weight of the live rabbit before slaughtered
(Figure 1).
2. Carcass weight (kg). This was the weight of the rabbit carcass with the head,
pelt, tail, feet, and viscera removed (Figure 2).
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
3. Carcass Length (cm). This was taken by measuring from the first rib to the
base of the tail of the suspended carcass.
4. Dressing percentage (%). This was obtained by dividing the carcass weight by
the slaughtered weight multiplied by 100.
5. Weight of Viscera (kg). This was taken by weighing all internal organs.
6. Weight of lean (kg). This is the weight of the lean of rabbit carcass (Figure 4).
7. Weight of bone (kg). This is the weight of rabbit’s bone (Figure 5).
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Data Analysis
The data on the carcass of rabbits were recorded and subjected to Analysis of
Variance for Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Treatment means were compared by
the least significant difference.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Slaughter Weight and Carcass Yield
The mean slaughter weight of the experimental rabbits in the different treatments
is shown in Table 1. Rabbits under T₁ (Kikuyu Grass+Sweet potato vine) 1.33 kg, T₂
(Perennial peanut+Sweet potato vine) with 1.38 kg, and T₃ (Perennial peanut+Kikuyu
grass+Sweet potato vine) had a mean weight of 1.25 kg.
Gillespie (1997) stated that rabbits are marketed when they reached fryer weight,
which live weight is 3 to 6 pounds (1.36-2.7 kg). The mean carcass yield as presented in
table 1 shows that the rabbits given diets supplemented with perennial peanut were yielded
the highest mean carcass of 0.68 kg, following the rabbits supplemented with kikuyu grass
had mean carcass weight of 0.67kg, and lastly the rabbits given a combination of kikuyu
and perennial had a mean of 0.61kg. Lower than reported by Alcausin (2010) which is the
mean carcass yield ranged from 0.99-1.01kg.
Analysis of Variance revealed that there no significant differences in terms of
slaughter weight, carcass yield of rabbit carcass.
Live weights of 4 to 4.75 pounds (1.8-2.1 kg) produced the best carcass with a
dressing percent ranging from 50-59 % (Gillespie, 1997).
Table 1. Mean slaughter weight and carcass yield
TREATMENT
SLAUGHTER
CARCASS
WEIGHT (kg)
WEIGHT (kg)
Kikuyu grass+Sweet potato vine
1.33
0.67
Perennial peanut+Sweet potato vine
1.38
0.68
Kikuyu grass+Perennial
1.25
0.61
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Carcass Length
Table 2 shows that T₁ (Kikuyu grass +Sweet potato vine) and T₂ (Perennial
peanut+Sweet potato vine) had a mean of 29.90 cm respectively, while the T₃ (Kikuyu
grass Perennial peanut +Sweet potato vine) with mean of 29.30 cm.
The statistical analysis revealed that there is no significant difference among the
treatment means in carcass length. This shows that using forages as feed supplement did
not affect the carcass length of the rabbits.
Dressing Percentage
Table 3 shows the mean dressing percentage ranged from 48.37-50.44% which is
higher than the dressing percentage reported by Alcausin (2010) ranging from 46.62-
47.31%.
In addition the study of Julio, (2001) revealed that eight week-old rabbit had a mean
dressing percentage ranging from 48.23-51.11%.
Dang-ay (2003) also reported that the male and female rabbit supplemented with
probiotic had a mean dressing percentage ranged from 50.50-53%.
Table 2. Mean carcass length of rabbits
TREATMENT
CARCASS LENGTH
(cm)
Kikuyu grass+Sweet potato
29.90
vine
Perennial peanut+Sweet
29.90
potato vine
Kikuyu grass+Perennial
29.30
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Table 3.Dressing percentage
TREATMENT
DRESSING PERCENTAGE
Kikuyu grass+Sweet potato
50.44
vine
Perennial peanut+Sweet
49.20
potato vine
Kikuyu grass+Perennial
48.37
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Percentage of Viscera
Table 4 shows the mean weight of viscera as expressed in percent carcass as
affected by the different treatment that the analysis of variance shows that there were no
significant differences in viscera percent of carcass rabbits. The mean percentage of viscera
also shown in Table 4 that rabbit fed with kikuyu grass had a mean of 25 %, and the rabbit
under the treatment of perennial peanut had 27.47 %, while rabbits fed with the
combination of kikuyu grass plus perennial peanut had mean of 27.42 %.
Table 4. Percentage of viscera
TREATMENT
VISCERA
PERCENTAGE
Kikuyu grass+Sweet potato
25.00
vine
Perennial peanut+Sweet
27.47
potato vine
Kikuyu grass+perennial
27.42
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Lean and Bone Percentage
Table 5 shows the mean percentage of lean and bone. Rabbits under T₁ (Kikuyu
grass + Camote) were obtained 69.65 percent, and T₂ (Perennial peanut + Camote) had
mean percent lean of 70.27 where it gained the highest percent, and T₃ (Kikuyu grass +
Perennial peanut + Camote) had 68.05 percent.
The analysis of variance in terms of lean and bone percentage shown that there are
no significant differences among the treatment means.
Furthermore, Alcausin (2010) reported that rabbit fed with cassava and sweet
potato meal that the mean percentage lean ranging from 71.18%-75.58%. Table 5 also
shown the bone percentage of rabbits ranged from 29.73 to 31.95, that the higher the
slaughter weight in terms of bone had the lowest percentage.
Bone to Lean Ratio
Table 6 presented the mean of bone to lean ratio. Analysis of Variance revealed
that there were no significant differences in bone to lean ratio. The mean bone to lean
ratio ranged from 1:0.43-1:0.47. This means that for every kilogram of bone, 430 to 470
g of lean is deposited.
Table 5. Percentage lean and bone
TREATMENT
PERCENTAGE
LEAN
BONE
Kikuyu grass+Sweet
69.65
30.35
potato vine
Perennial peanut+Sweet
70.27
29.73
potato vine
Kikuyu grass+perennial
68.05
31.95
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Table 6. Bone to Lean Ratio
TREATMENT
BONE TO LEAN RATIO
Kikuyu grass+Sweet
1:0.44
potato vine
Perennial peanut+Sweet
1:0.43
potato vine
Kikuyu grass+Perennial
1:0.47
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Additionally, Alcausin (2010) reported that the mean of bone to lean ratio ranging
from 1:19.26-1:20.81.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Summary
This study was on the carcass yield from New Zealand white rabbit fed with
different forages as feed. The measurement gathered were: slaughter weight, carcass
length, carcass weight, viscera weight, lean and bone weight, lean and bone ratio. From the
data gathered, the data computed were dressing and viscera percentage, lean and bone
percentage that the Analysis of Variance revealed that there are no significant differences
among treatment means.
The study was conducted at Meat Laboratory under Animal Science Department,
Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet from January 2012. Fifty days old rabbits
were used in the study. Two rabbits from each treatment were slaughtered to represent
two replications. The source of rabbits were the previous growth study which the
treatment used were the following; T₁ (Kikuyu grass + Sweet potato vine) T₂ (Perennial
peanut + Sweet potato vine) and (Kikuyu grass + Perennial peanut + Sweet potato vine).
Conclusion
As a result analysis of variance reveals that there are no significant differences in
slaughter weight, carcass length, viscera weight, viscera percentage, dressing percentage,
lean and bone ratio, lean and bone percentage. Therefore, the different forages used as a
feed supplement does not have effect.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Recommendation
Based on the result of this study, rabbit raisers can use forages as feed or in
combination to commercial feeds. The standardized feeding of pure forages is only good
for long term feeding. It is recommended that rabbits be fed for a minimum of eight to ten
weeks and above to attain good quality of the carcass.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
LITERATURE CITED
ALCAUSIN, J. Effect of cassava and sweet potato meal on the carcass yield of rabbits. BS.
Thesis. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet. May 2010.
BADE, D. and J. BLAKELY. 1994. The Science of Animal Husbandry. Sixth Edition.
P.617.
BOWMAN, A.M. et al. 1998. Evaluation of perennial peanut (Arachis spp) as forage on
the new South Wales North Coast. Tropical grasslands, 32,252-258.
COMA, V. 2000. Feeding Guidelines for Meat and Pig Progress: 16-17. Retrieved from
Fed with Varying Levels of Okara # (soybean pulp). Undergraduate Thesis.
Carcass Yield and Quality of Cobb and Hubbard Broilers.
DANG-AY, J. 2003. Effect of Probiotic Products with Lacto Bacilli on Growth
Performance and Carcass Yield of Rabbits. BS Thesis. Benguet State University,
La Trinidad, Benguet.
DEVENDRA, C. 1988. Forage Supplements: Nutritional Significance and Utilization for
Draught, Meat and Milk Production in Buffaloes. Indian Council of Agricultural
Research 2:409-423.
LUKEFAHR S.D. and P. R. CHEEKE. 1990. Rabbit Project Planning Strategies for
Developing Countries. Livestock Research for Rural Development. 2
http://www.lrrd.org/lrrd2/3/cheeke1.htm
GERPACIO, A.L. and L. S. CASTILLO. 1979. Nutrient Composition of some Philippine
Feedstuffs. Department of Animal Science, University of the Philippines, Los
Banos. P. 17. Published by the extension division Department of Animal Science,
College of Agriculture U.P. at Los Banos Philippines.
GILLESPIE, J. 1997. Modern Livestock and Poultry Production, Fifth Edition. Pp881-882.
HAMMOND, A. C., L. J. PADGETT, and M. J. WILLIAMS. 1992. Relative feeding value
of rhizome perennial peanut hay as a supplement to bahiagrass hay for wintering
beefs cows and heifers. Prof. Anim. Sci. 8:48-54.
JULIO, J. G. 2001. Effect of Zeolites on the Performance of New Zealand White x
Chinchilla Rabbits. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet.
MEARS, P.T. and L.R. HUMPHREYS. 1974. Nitrogen response and stocking rate of
Pennisetum clandestinum pastures 1. Pasture nitrogen and concentration,
distribution of dry matter and botanical composition. Journal of Agricultural
Science Cambridge, P. 83
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
NORMAN, W. 1977. Elemenmt of Food technology. The AVI Publishing Company
Incorporated Westport Connecticut. Pp.314-315.
POND, K . and W. POND. 2000. Introduction to Animal Science. John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America. P. 559-560.
TEMPLETON, G. S. 1968. Domestic Rabbit Production. The Interstate Printers and
Publishers.USA. Pp.14,198-200.
WARREN, D.M. 2002. Small Animal Care and Management. Second Edition. Delmar
Thomson Learning Incorporated. USA. Pp. 151-152.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012. Carcass Yield from New Zealand White
Rabbit Fed with Different Forages. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet.
Adviser: Madeline S. Kingan, MSc.
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted at Meat Laboratory under Animal Science Department,
Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet from January 2012. This aimed to
determine the effect of the different forages as feed for rabbits in terms of slaughter and
carcass length of rabbit; to determine the lean and bone percentage; and to determine which
of the treatments produce the highest carcass yield. Fifty days old rabbits
were used in the study. Two rabbits from each treatment were slaughtered to represent
two replications. The source of rabbits were the previous growth study which utilized the
the following treatments; T₁ (Kikuyu grass + Sweet potato vine) T₂ (Perennial peanut +
Sweet potato vine) and (Kikuyu grass + Perennial peanut + Sweet potato vine).
Statistical analysis indicates that there were no significant differences between the
three treatments in terms of slaughter weight, carcass length, viscera weight, dressing
percentage, viscera percentage, lean and bone percentage, and bone to lean ratio.
Based on the result of this study, rabbit raisers can use forages as feed or in
combination to commercial feeds. The standardized feeding of pure forages is only good
for long term feeding. It is recommended that rabbits be fed for a minimum of eight to ten
weeks and above to attain good quality of the carcass.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
INTRODUCTION
Rabbit meats are not the most consumable because of its higher price and also it is
not known in our country. Rabbit production is seldom and there is no meat available in
the market. But rabbit meat or “lapan” is a very nutritious food suitable for patients under
special diets, low sodium diets, weight diet reduction, and for the aged. Rabbit meat is a
good source of protein that is excellent source of essential amino acids which are contained
in the amount needed by the body. In addition, rabbit meat has high quality that is often
considered a white meat and delicacy in taste.
The farmers could probably produce rabbit meat with low production costs, but in
fact have been raising rabbits with high feed costs. Their practice has been to feed the
rabbits low quality forages, natural or improved grasses, and commercial concentrates in
large amounts to solve the problem the rabbit should be improved by replacing the grass
with foliages higher protein content that can be found easily in the area (Lukefahr and
Cheeke, 1990).
This study was the carcass yield of rabbit fed with kikuyu grass and perennial
peanut. The result of the study can contribute or provide additional knowledge to the reader
and most especially to the raisers. This can also serve as a basis for another or further study.
Generally, this study was conducted to determine the carcass yield of rabbit fed
with different forages. Specifically it aimed to: determine the effect of the different forages
as feed supplement on rabbit in terms of slaughter and carcass length of rabbit, determine
the lean and bone percentage; and determine which of the treatment produce high carcass
yield.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
This study was conducted at the Meat Processing Laboratory under the Department
of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet
on January 2012
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Mears and Humphreys (1974) stated that kikuyu grass species has several attributes
as a tropical pasture, since then a vast amount of information has been produced regarding
to its agronomic characteristics, nutritional value, management and animal production
potential. Kikuyu is a highly digestible, high protein, low fiber, palatable grass which
responds readily to nitrogen, stands heavy grazing, holds soil against erosion and is an
excellent lawn grass. Kikuyu grass is essentially a high-quality grass for dairying and cattle
finishing in high-altitude areas of the tropical and subtropical world; a useful lawn grass
and soil fertilizer against erosion.
Gerpacio and Castillo (1979) The Nutrient requirement composition of Kikuyu
grass analyzed by the University of the Philippines College of Agriculture as follows:
Crude protein (3.61%), Crude fiber (3.51%), Ether extract (0.37%), Ash (2.11%), Nitrogen
free-extract (5.79%).
According to Bowman et.al, (1998) the nutritive value of Perennial peanut (Arachis
pinto) has crude protein of 13-25% dry matter digestibility of 60-70%.
Hammond et al. (1992) they found out that perennial peanut forage is a suitable
protein and energy supplement feed for cattle, especially for those on low protein grass
hay. Thus, (cattle, sheep, goats and rabbits) perennial peanut is very nutritious and well
liked. The nutritional quality of perennial peanut appears to be as good as alfalfa.
Devendra (1988) reported that the foliages are sources of dietary protein and can
provide variety in the diet for improved growth performance and reduced feed costs.
New Zealand is the most popular breed for commercial meat production, although
hybrids are gradually replacing purebreds. Weight of a full-grown New Zealand white is
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
4-5 kilogram with production of about 2 kilogram of meat at 8-10 weeks of age (Pond and
Pond, 2000).
In meat technology, meat is commonly defined as the flesh from the domesticated
animals. The composition of lean meat may be approximated as water 75 %, protein 18%,
soluble non- protein substance including mineral components 4%, and fat 3% (Norman,
1977).
Rabbit meat is white, fine grained, delicately flavoured, nutritious and appetizing.
The age of the larger roaster rabbits is six months and more. The meat from the rabbits
require simmering or longer and slower in covered pan. The size of the carcass is the fine
quality of the meat (Templeton, 1968). The major used of domestic rabbits is for meat
production. Medium and heavy weight breeds are best suited for meat production and the
breed of New Zealand white is suited for this purpose.
The rabbits are marketed when they reached fryer weight, which live weight is 3 to
6 pounds (1.36-2.7 kg). Live weights of 4 to 4.75 pounds (1.8-2.1 kg) produced the best
carcass with a dressing percent ranging from 50-59 % (Gillespie, 1997).
Rabbit meat also called “lapan”, is the primarily white meat that is very fine in
texture and has low fiber content. Because of the low fiber content, it is easy to digest
which is desirable for individuals who have difficulty chewing for their food (Warren,
2002).
Most rabbit are commercially raised for meat, fur, wool and for laboratory usage.
They are excellent converters of feed to meat and naturally produce more meat per pound
of female live weight than other animals. Rabbit has high-yielding carcass-over fifty
percent dressing percentage (Bade and Blakely, 1994).
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Nowadays, people are health conscious particularly what they eat. As much as
possible, the food that they will eat should free from any toxic substance or chemical
residues which hazardous to human health. Therefore, organically products, meat or
vegetable is become popular (Coma, 2000).
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Experimental Materials
The materials used in the study are 3 month-old rabbits, weighing scale, bolo or
knife, pail, basin, chopping board, record book, tape measure and camera.
Experimental Treatments
The source of rabbits for this study was the previous growth study which utilized
from the following treatments:
T₁ –50% Kikuyu grass + 50% Sweet potato vine
T₂ - 50% Perennial peanut + 50% Sweet potato vine
T₃ – 25% Kikuyu grass + 25% Perennial peanut + 50% Sweet potato vine
Two rabbits from each treatment were slaughtered to represent two replications.
Slaughtering of Rabbits
The rabbits were slaughtered upon reaching the age of three months. Before the
animals were slaughtered, they were not offered any amount of forage. During
slaughtering, the rabbit was suspended by its hind leg. With his left hand, the butchers hold
the head firmly and his right hand holds a sharp knife and then broke the neck and cut
behind the head to drain the blood. When the blood was drained, cuttings were continued
across the back of the head down to the tip of the jaw including all of the thick fur covering
the neck and jaw. After the butcher loosened the flesh at the side of the hocks with his
fingers preparatory to skinning the carcass; cut the tail at its base the two front legs above
the joint at least half inch high. The skin was pulled down from the
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
carcass until it was pulled off whole like a sock. A slit was made on the rabbit’s flesh from
the rectum down the breast taking care not to puncture the intestine.
Data Gathered
1. Slaughter weight (kg). This was the weight of the live rabbit before slaughtered
(Figure 1).
2. Carcass weight (kg). This was the weight of the rabbit carcass with the head,
pelt, tail, feet, and viscera removed (Figure 2).
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
3. Carcass Length (cm). This was taken by measuring from the first rib to the
base of the tail of the suspended carcass.
4. Dressing percentage (%). This was obtained by dividing the carcass weight by
the slaughtered weight multiplied by 100.
5. Weight of Viscera (kg). This was taken by weighing all internal organs.
6. Weight of lean (kg). This is the weight of the lean of rabbit carcass (Figure 4).
7. Weight of bone (kg). This is the weight of rabbit’s bone (Figure 5).
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Data Analysis
The data on the carcass of rabbits were recorded and subjected to Analysis of
Variance for Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Treatment means were compared by
the least significant difference.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Slaughter Weight and Carcass Yield
The mean slaughter weight of the experimental rabbits in the different treatments
is shown in Table 1. Rabbits under T₁ (Kikuyu Grass+Sweet potato vine) 1.33 kg, T₂
(Perennial peanut+Sweet potato vine) with 1.38 kg, and T₃ (Perennial peanut+Kikuyu
grass+Sweet potato vine) had a mean weight of 1.25 kg.
Gillespie (1997) stated that rabbits are marketed when they reached fryer weight,
which live weight is 3 to 6 pounds (1.36-2.7 kg). The mean carcass yield as presented in
table 1 shows that the rabbits given diets supplemented with perennial peanut were yielded
the highest mean carcass of 0.68 kg, following the rabbits supplemented with kikuyu grass
had mean carcass weight of 0.67kg, and lastly the rabbits given a combination of kikuyu
and perennial had a mean of 0.61kg. Lower than reported by Alcausin (2010) which is the
mean carcass yield ranged from 0.99-1.01kg.
Analysis of Variance revealed that there no significant differences in terms of
slaughter weight, carcass yield of rabbit carcass.
Live weights of 4 to 4.75 pounds (1.8-2.1 kg) produced the best carcass with a
dressing percent ranging from 50-59 % (Gillespie, 1997).
Table 1. Mean slaughter weight and carcass yield
TREATMENT
SLAUGHTER
CARCASS
WEIGHT (kg)
WEIGHT (kg)
Kikuyu grass+Sweet potato vine
1.33
0.67
Perennial peanut+Sweet potato vine
1.38
0.68
Kikuyu grass+Perennial
1.25
0.61
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Carcass Length
Table 2 shows that T₁ (Kikuyu grass +Sweet potato vine) and T₂ (Perennial
peanut+Sweet potato vine) had a mean of 29.90 cm respectively, while the T₃ (Kikuyu
grass Perennial peanut +Sweet potato vine) with mean of 29.30 cm.
The statistical analysis revealed that there is no significant difference among the
treatment means in carcass length. This shows that using forages as feed supplement did
not affect the carcass length of the rabbits.
Dressing Percentage
Table 3 shows the mean dressing percentage ranged from 48.37-50.44% which is
higher than the dressing percentage reported by Alcausin (2010) ranging from 46.62-
47.31%.
In addition the study of Julio, (2001) revealed that eight week-old rabbit had a mean
dressing percentage ranging from 48.23-51.11%.
Dang-ay (2003) also reported that the male and female rabbit supplemented with
probiotic had a mean dressing percentage ranged from 50.50-53%.
Table 2. Mean carcass length of rabbits
TREATMENT
CARCASS LENGTH
(cm)
Kikuyu grass+Sweet potato
29.90
vine
Perennial peanut+Sweet
29.90
potato vine
Kikuyu grass+Perennial
29.30
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Table 3.Dressing percentage
TREATMENT
DRESSING PERCENTAGE
Kikuyu grass+Sweet potato
50.44
vine
Perennial peanut+Sweet
49.20
potato vine
Kikuyu grass+Perennial
48.37
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Percentage of Viscera
Table 4 shows the mean weight of viscera as expressed in percent carcass as
affected by the different treatment that the analysis of variance shows that there were no
significant differences in viscera percent of carcass rabbits. The mean percentage of viscera
also shown in Table 4 that rabbit fed with kikuyu grass had a mean of 25 %, and the rabbit
under the treatment of perennial peanut had 27.47 %, while rabbits fed with the
combination of kikuyu grass plus perennial peanut had mean of 27.42 %.
Table 4. Percentage of viscera
TREATMENT
VISCERA
PERCENTAGE
Kikuyu grass+Sweet potato
25.00
vine
Perennial peanut+Sweet
27.47
potato vine
Kikuyu grass+perennial
27.42
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Lean and Bone Percentage
Table 5 shows the mean percentage of lean and bone. Rabbits under T₁ (Kikuyu
grass + Camote) were obtained 69.65 percent, and T₂ (Perennial peanut + Camote) had
mean percent lean of 70.27 where it gained the highest percent, and T₃ (Kikuyu grass +
Perennial peanut + Camote) had 68.05 percent.
The analysis of variance in terms of lean and bone percentage shown that there are
no significant differences among the treatment means.
Furthermore, Alcausin (2010) reported that rabbit fed with cassava and sweet
potato meal that the mean percentage lean ranging from 71.18%-75.58%. Table 5 also
shown the bone percentage of rabbits ranged from 29.73 to 31.95, that the higher the
slaughter weight in terms of bone had the lowest percentage.
Bone to Lean Ratio
Table 6 presented the mean of bone to lean ratio. Analysis of Variance revealed
that there were no significant differences in bone to lean ratio. The mean bone to lean
ratio ranged from 1:0.43-1:0.47. This means that for every kilogram of bone, 430 to 470
g of lean is deposited.
Table 5. Percentage lean and bone
TREATMENT
PERCENTAGE
LEAN
BONE
Kikuyu grass+Sweet
69.65
30.35
potato vine
Perennial peanut+Sweet
70.27
29.73
potato vine
Kikuyu grass+perennial
68.05
31.95
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Table 6. Bone to Lean Ratio
TREATMENT
BONE TO LEAN RATIO
Kikuyu grass+Sweet
1:0.44
potato vine
Perennial peanut+Sweet
1:0.43
potato vine
Kikuyu grass+Perennial
1:0.47
Peanut+Sweet potato vine
Additionally, Alcausin (2010) reported that the mean of bone to lean ratio ranging
from 1:19.26-1:20.81.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Summary
This study was on the carcass yield from New Zealand white rabbit fed with
different forages as feed. The measurement gathered were: slaughter weight, carcass
length, carcass weight, viscera weight, lean and bone weight, lean and bone ratio. From the
data gathered, the data computed were dressing and viscera percentage, lean and bone
percentage that the Analysis of Variance revealed that there are no significant differences
among treatment means.
The study was conducted at Meat Laboratory under Animal Science Department,
Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet from January 2012. Fifty days old rabbits
were used in the study. Two rabbits from each treatment were slaughtered to represent
two replications. The source of rabbits were the previous growth study which the
treatment used were the following; T₁ (Kikuyu grass + Sweet potato vine) T₂ (Perennial
peanut + Sweet potato vine) and (Kikuyu grass + Perennial peanut + Sweet potato vine).
Conclusion
As a result analysis of variance reveals that there are no significant differences in
slaughter weight, carcass length, viscera weight, viscera percentage, dressing percentage,
lean and bone ratio, lean and bone percentage. Therefore, the different forages used as a
feed supplement does not have effect.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
Recommendation
Based on the result of this study, rabbit raisers can use forages as feed or in
combination to commercial feeds. The standardized feeding of pure forages is only good
for long term feeding. It is recommended that rabbits be fed for a minimum of eight to ten
weeks and above to attain good quality of the carcass.
Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012
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Carcass Yield from New Zealand White Rabbit Fed with Different Forages
BUGTONG, GILDA O. APRIL 2012