Effect of Moringa Oleifera Leaf Extract on Ethogram of Rabbit Does

Abstract

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Moringa oleifera leaves extract (MOLP) on ethogram of common rabbit does. Total (n=32) of Oryctolagus cuniculus common rabbit does divided into 4 groups randomly into A, B, C and D. Groups A, B, C and D were treated by MOLP by graded level 150 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, 450 mg/kg and 0 mg/kg respectively. Water and feed offered to all the groups were ad libitum. The ethogram was observed 8 times daily for 4 weeks. Ethogram was manually noted on chart in morning and evening visually. Statistical analysis performed by using Chi-square goodness of fit test (P<0.05). Results showed that the behaviors frequency alert, chewing, drinking, eating, foot flickering, grooming, lie recumbent, lie sternal, others, periscope, scratching, sitting and stationery were differed significantly between the groups While jumping, locomotion, nudge, sniffing did not show any significant difference. Major ethograms; group C showed significantly high frequency of inactive (stationary, lie recumbent, lie sternal and sitting) while group D show lesser. Intake (drinking, eating and chewing) was significantly high in group D however significantly low in the group C. Active (locomotion, jumping, alert, foot flickering, periscope, shaking and grooming) was significantly high in group A however significantly low in the group C while the exploratory (sniffing, jumping and nudge) have no statistically significant difference. It was concluded that administration of high doses 450 mg/kg of Moringa rabbit showed abnormal behavior but on low doses of 150 mg/kg show normal behavior, low doses of Moringa are healthier in welfare of rabbit.