Effects of Thyme and Garlic Powder on the Reproductive Performance and Pre-weaning Growth in Guinea Pigs (Cavia porcellus)

Background: In Africa, poverty and malnutrition are prevalent, particularly in rural areas, where limited access to resources hinders intensive animal protein production, making mini-farming and caviaculture crucial for food security. Guinea pigs, with their high growth rate and nutrient-rich meat, offer a promising solution, but their productivity is hindered by inadequate diets, highlighting the need for improved breeding strategies and nutrition. Objective: The study aims to evaluate the effects of thyme and garlic powder on reproductive performance and pre-weaning growth in guinea pigs. Method: The study was conducted using 72 guinea pigs (60 female and 12 males) aged 5 months, weighing on average 450±50 g, at the Animal Production and Nutrition Research Unit (URPRONAN) of the University of Dschang between September 2019 and December 2020. Four rations (T0, TI, T2 and T3) were used. The control ration allocated to animals without additives. The animals of treatment T1, T2 and T3, respectively, received 1% thyme power; 1% garlic powder and thyme powder garlic powder in their diet. Trypsacum Laxum was served ad-libitum as staple feed. The animals were randomly distributed into 4 groups of 18 animals each (15 females and 3 males) and crossed over a period of 31 days, after which the males were removed. At birth, each newborn was identified with metal loops, numbered and then weighed every 7 days until weaning of pups. The quantities of feed served were maintained in the lactating mothers until weaning of pups (21 days after birth). Result: The result showed that the highest (1.6) litter size was in treatment T1. It was the same for other reproduction parameters. Without consideration of sex, the highest body weights of young guinea pigs were obtained in treatment T1. The highest total weight gain (TWG) and daily weight gain (DWG) (184.25 g and day, respectively) were obtained in treatment T1. It appears that diets containing 1% thyme powder (T1) were suitable for guinea pigs during pregnancy and pre-weaning. Conclusion: The study provides insights into the potential benefits of thyme and garlic powder on guinea pig reproduction and growth, offering opportunities for improved animal nutrition and health. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and optimize supplementation strategies.