Sessions

In my research, I examined the nutritional composition of commercial complete feeds for pet rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus). Both species are herbivores; a good-quality feed is high in crude fibre (14–25%) and low in crude fat (2–4%). The crude protein content is 10–18%, depending on the age of the animal. Based on their physical form, we distinguish between pelleted, extruded, and muesli-type products. While the first two consist of ingredients that have been ground and mixed evenly, the muesli-type feed contains a variety of ingredients, such as cereal grains, pelleted or extruded feed, oil seeds, legume seeds, and chopped hay. The animals typically select the parts that are richer in fat and carbohydrate and consume less of the fibre-rich parts. This predisposes them to obesity, gastrointestinal diseases, and the development of dental disorders. Only a limited amount of feed should be given to the animals, with ad libitum access to hay. Fibre found in hay is important for tooth wear, intestinal motility, and maintaining microbial fermentation in the cecum.

In this study, I examined 12 rabbit and 10 guinea pig feeds, originating from 13 manufacturers. The chemical composition of the feeds was analysed using standard laboratory methods. The values declared on the packaging and the measured values were compared using a one-sample t-test. The results showed that the crude protein was significantly lower than the declared value in 7 feeds, and higher in 5 feeds. The protein content of one feed exceeded the recommended 18% limit. With regard to crude fat, the measured value was significantly lower than the value indicated by the manufacturer in 4 feeds and higher in 6. The fat content of 3 feeds did not conform to the recommendations. The most deviations occurred in the case of the crude fibre content. Out of all 22 feeds, the fibre content was significantly lower than the declared value in 8 feeds and higher in 9. Furthermore, the fibre content of 10 products did not reach the minimum required level. All of these were muesli type. Of the 13 muesli-type feeds examined, 2 (15.4%) are acceptable, and 11 (84.6%) are not recommended for feeding based on their nutritional composition. Based on the measured values, 5 (41.7%) rabbit feeds and 4 (40%) guinea pig feeds met the evaluation criteria and can be recommended for feeding.

It is important for veterinarians to focus on spreading knowledge about proper nutrition. In addition, they should draw owners' attention to how to choose a good-quality feed for their pets. Comparing the data declared on the feed packaging with the measured values, muesli-type feeds should be avoided because of their inadequate chemical composition. Therefore, they are not recommended for use as the main food in the diet of pet rabbits and guinea pigs.