Feasibility testing of treated leftover feed for its reutilization in crossbred dairy cattle

Abstract

The study was conducted to assess the feasibility of treated left over feed and performance of crossbred dairy cattle at organized dairy farm for a period of 150 days during winter and spring seasons. A total of 24 crossbred animals (8-12 months of age) were selected and randomly allocated to four different groups(6 animals per group) viz. Group-1 (Gr-1): 100% treated leftover feed; Group-2(Gr-2): 75% treated feed; Group-3 (Gr-3): 50% treated feed and Group-4(Gr-4) or Control: 100% green fodder. The leftover feed F-1, F-2, F-3, F-4, F-5 and F-6 were treated with combination of 1% urea+5% molasses+0.5% salt, 1% urea+5% molasses+1% salt, 1% urea+10% molasses+0.5% salt, 1% urea+10% molasses+1% salt, 5% molasses+0.5% salt and 10% molasses+0.5% salt, respectively. Treatment of leftover feed was found to be quite feasible during winter and spring months which increased dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre and ash content. Proximate analysis was done to assess the nutritive values. Colour was golden brown and sweet smell in molasses treated feed and ammonical but acceptable odour in urea included treatment group. The leftover feed could efficiently be utilized for feeding to dairy animals under farm conditions. Feeding cost was reduced to almost during growing period without affecting the growth and performance of the animals.