Efecto de la alholva (Trigonella foenum-graecum) en dieta sobre producción, calidad de leche, reproducción posparto y perfiles sanguíneos en conejas (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

Abstract

This research aimed to determine the effect of including fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) in the diet of breeding does on milk production and quality, reproductive parameters, and blood profiles during gestation and lactation. New Zealand White rabbits were used, divided into three treatments: a control group (G1) and two groups supplemented with 1.5 g (G2) and 2.0 g (G3) of animal fenugreek meal per day. Milk production was evaluated using the indirect weighing method of the kits before and after lactation, as well as the chemical composition of the milk, litter performance parameters, reproductive indicators, and hematological and biochemical variables. The results showed a favorable trend in milk production in the does supplemented with fenugreek; group G3 reached an average production of 323.05 g on day 18 of lactation, surpassing groups G1 and G2. Milk quality showed increases in the percentages of fat, protein, lactose, ash, and total solids. Overall, fenugreek supplementation produced an average improvement of 9.66% compared to the control group. Productive and reproductive parameters showed positive biological trends, reflected in higher weaning weights, better average daily gain, greater receptivity to bucks, fertility, and prolificacy. In blood profiles, glucose remained within physiological ranges with no significant differences between treatments, while cholesterol and triglycerides decreased significantly in the supplemented groups, especially in G3. Hematological parameters remained within normal values for the species. Fenugreek supplementation constitutes a promising phytobiotic alternative for feeding breeding rabbits, as it promotes milk quality and improves the metabolic profile without compromising the animals' health.