Effects of replacing maize with threshed rice head supplemented with and without enzyme on the nutrient digestibility of weaner rabbits

Abstract

A feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effect of replacing maize with threshed rice head (TRH) supplemented with and without enzyme on the nutrient digestibility of weaner rabbits. Fifty four rabbits were randomly allotted to six dietary treatments of three replicates. There were three rabbits per replicate in a 2 x 3 factorial experimental design. There were three inclusion levels (0, 7.5 and 15%)supplementedwith and without enzyme in the diets. The response on TRH without enzyme inclusion showed that all the parameters measured (dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract and ash) were significantly (P<0.05) affectedby the test dietsexcept nitrogen-free extract digestibility.The results of TRH levels (0, 7.5 and 15%) with enzyme supplementation had significant (P<0.05) effecton the coefficient of crude protein and crude fibre digestibility. The
study indicated that TRH can be included in the diet of rabbit up to 15% with enzyme supplemention.