Effect of the housing system (free-range vs. open air cages) on growth performance, carcass and meat quality and antioxidant capacity of rabbits

Abstract Growth performances and meat quality of free-range or cage raised rabbits were compared in 36 male animals. Rabbits were raised in free-range areas (2000 cm 2 /head) or in open-air cages (800 cm 2 /head) from weaning to 99 days old. Daily weight gain and final live weight were higher (P