Effect of the usage of grasses and non conventional feeds on the productive behavior, carcass performance and meat quality of guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus)

The main objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of including non conventional forages and food in the diet of developing guinea pigs on their productive behaviour, carcass yield, and meat quality. Within this context, four concentrated food mixtures were designed based on the requirements of the species. 64 guinea pigs of 21 days of age were used. A random block design was used, with four blocks and 8 repetitions per diet, each experimental unit included two animals. The analyzed variables were weight gain, food and dry material consumption, mortality index, and carcass yield percentage. The statistical analysis of the variables did not show significant differences, except for meat protein percentage when Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala) was used in the diet. The analyses revealed that the weight gain, food and dry material consumption, and carcass yield, as well as the nutritional composition of the meat were adequate. Altogether, these results demonstrate the feasibility of incorporating white mulberry (Morus alba), glicinia (Glycine white), leucaena, hen manure, citrus fruits flour, and honey in the concentrated diet of developing guinea pigs.