Feeding growing rabbits with alfalfa-based diet: implications for performance, product quality and gut health

The aim of this study was to evaluate growth performance and feed efficiency, carcase traits, meat fatty acid profile and faecal microbiota of rabbits fed an alfalfa-based diet. To this purpose, 100 rabbits weaned at 30 days of age were fed a standard diet (Control) or an experimental diet (Alfalfa) based on dehydrated alfalfa meal and hay (70%). Daily weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion index were calculated, as well as mortality and morbidity rate. The faecal microbiota at 31 and 79 d of age was analysed. At slaughtering (80 d), 15 rabbits per group were randomly chosen, carcases were dissected for fat depots and meat (Longissimus lumborum) was analysed for chemical composition and fatty acid profile. Rabbits fed the control diet showed higher final body weight (+6,4%) improved feed conversion (p < 0.05) and greater fat depots. In contrast, those fed the Alfalfa diet had leaner carcases, lower intramuscular fat, and significantly improved n-6/n-3 ratio (12.56 vs. 4.61; p < 0.001). Mortality and morbidity were lower in the Alfalfa group (mortality 4% vs. 10%, p < 0.05). Moreover, a more favourable faecal microbiota composition was observed in alfalfa-fed rabbits, with increased of Firmicutes and decreased Bacteroides and Proteobacteria at both time points. These results highlight the benefits of an alfalfa-rich diet in enhancing the health of fattening rabbits and the meat nutritional quality despite a slight reduction in growth performance.