Effect of the type of forage (Grazing vs. Hay) and the inclusion of condensed tannins in ewe's diet on milk quality and suckling lamb's growth
2016
Lobón Ascaso, S | Sanz Pascua, A | Blanco Alibés, M | Joy Torrens, Margalida
The aim of this study was to assess the effects of the type of forage and the inclusion of condensed tannins (CT) on productive parameters of lactating ewes and the lamb’s growth. Thirty-nine Churra Tensina ewe-lamb pairs were used in a 2 x 2 experimental design, with two types of forages: Pasture vs. Hay; and two concentrates: a concentrate with 10 per cent of Quebracho (SYLVAFEED ByPro Q, Spain) extract with 75 per cent of CT (CT) and a control concentrate without CT (Control). At parturition, ewes were randomly distributed according to their body-weight (average 46.6 kg), body condition score (average 2.43) and lambing date (4-Apr.). Ewes were daily fed 300 g of concentrate plus ad libitum forage. The experimental period lasted 35 days. Pasture ewes had greater daily milk production and protein content than hay-fed ones (1.31 vs. 1.00 l per d and 5.1 vs. 4.6 per cent, for milk production and protein content, respectively) but had similar fat content (average 6.4 per cent). The inclusion of CT in the concentrate did not affect milk production or fat content, but influenced the protein content of milk (4.8 vs. 5.0 per cent, for CT and Control, respectively). Lamb growth during lactation was greater in Pasture than in Hay lots (280 vs. 220 g per d, respectively), regardless of the inclusion of CT. In conclusion, pasture forage improved milk production and composition and lamb growth, whereas the addition of condensed tannins in the ewe diet only had effect on the protein content of milk, decreasing its content
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