Comparative effect of organic and Inorganic Copper Supplemented Diets on Performance and Blood Characteristics of Growing Rabbits

The effects of organic and inorganic copper sources on the performance and blood characteristics of growing rabbits over a 10 week period were investigated. Six dietary treatments were formulated such that diets 1, 2 and 3 contained 10, 50, and 100ppm of organic copper (Copper proteinate (Cu Pro)) while diets 4, 5 and 6 contained 10, 50 and 100ppm of inorganic copper (copper sulphate (CuSO4). The final weight and daily weight gain were significantly (P<0.05) higher in rabbits fed organic Cu compared to those fed Cuso, Organic Cu diets resulted in significant (P<0.05) reduction in blood cholesterol than CuSO4 diets. Organic Cu is more effective in promoting growth and blood cholesterol reduction of growing rabbits than Cuso4, There was more accumulation of Cu in the liver and heart of rabbits fed Organic Cu than those fed CuSO4, The liver and heart Cu increased as the Cu level increased. More Cu was excreted in rabbits fed CuSO4, than those fed Organic Cu. This study showed that copper proteinate is more effective in promoting growth and reduction of cholesterol of rabbits. The study confirmed a relative increase in bioavailability of organic copper compared to inorganic sources.