Evaluation of different stocking densities on fattening performance, slaughter, carcass, meat quality characteristics, and fatty acid composition in New Zealand rabbits

The aim of the research was to investigate effects different stocking densities on fattening performance, slaughter, carcass, meat quality characteristics, and fatty acid composition in New Zealand rabbits raised cage conditions also determine ideal housing frequency so that yields were not adversely affected. In study, 36 used. After weaning, started put into cages at as 1 rabbit/cage, 2 rabbits/cage, 3 rabbits/ cage. live weight feed consumption data taken every week. At end 8 weeks fattening, slaughtering carried out slaughter weights recorded. internal organ hot carcass determined. 24 h, chilled reference defined. As parameters meat; pH, color, cooking loss, water holding capacity, drip results rabbits/cage group had lowest final (2353.60 g) daily gain (25.62 but rabbit/cage conservation ratio (3.56) (p < 0.05). There no significant differences dressing percentage, hot, chilled, weight. Head hind part percentages higher for groups Stocking density relationship between except b* value longissimus dorsi muscle measured 24$^{th}$ h biceps femoris 0$^{th}$ conclusion, better performance values comparing because movement area, social hierarchical behavior advised laboratory commercial rabbit breeding uniformity profitability.