Effects of trace minerals on the growth and performance of growing dairy cattle fed two levels of dietary protein
2001
Ona, L.F. | Robles, A.Y.
Twelve crossbred (Holstein x Red Sindhi) yearling calves were used in a 2 x 2 factorial in a randomized complete block design (RCBD), to determine the effects of 14 percent and 16 percent crude protein (CP) levels, with and without trace minerals (TM) supplementation. For each level of protein, 3 animals were given TM supplemented ration, the other 3 with non TM supplemented ration. The results showed that calves fed the ration with 16 percent CP consumed significantly (P0.05) more protein, calf concentrate ration and roughage. The daily weight gain, increase in height at wither, body length and heart girth were similar for the two CP levels. Pulse rate was significantly (P0.05) higher under 16 percent CP. However, the rectal temperature was similar for the two CP levels. Differences on the cost of feeding for the two levels of protein was minimal. The dry matter, roughage and protein intakes of calves were not significantly (P0.05) different from the TM supplemented and non TM supplemented. There was no difference in daily weight, increase in height at wither and body length for the rations. However, calves without TM supplementation had a significantly (P0.05) higher increase in heart girth. Physiological responses were similar both for the TM and non TM supplemented rations. Addition of TM premix in the ration did not result to better growth and performance of calves indicating that the concentrate and the roughage given have sufficient TM content.
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