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Fiber sources for complete calf starter rations.

F R Murdock, R W Wallenius

    Journal of Dairy Science
    |November 1, 1980
    PubMed
    Summary

    Holstein calves fed cottonseed hulls showed increased starter intake and weight gain compared to alfalfa hay or beet pulp. Rumen function was similar across all fiber sources, suggesting better palatability drove the growth response.

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    Area of Science:

    • Animal Science
    • Ruminant Nutrition
    • Calf Management

    Background:

    • Optimizing calf starter rations is crucial for early growth and development in Holstein heifers.
    • Fiber sources significantly impact feed intake, nutrient utilization, and overall calf health.
    • Understanding the effects of different fiber components on rumen function is essential for dairy calf nutrition.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the impact of three distinct fiber sources (alfalfa hay, cottonseed hulls, alfalfa-beet pulp) in complete calf starter rations.
    • To compare the effects of these rations on growth, feed intake, and feed efficiency in Holstein heifer calves.
    • To assess the influence of fiber source on rumen development and function, as well as health parameters like scours and bloat.

    Main Methods:

    • Holstein heifer calves (3 days to 12 wk of age) were fed isonitrogenous starter rations with varying fiber sources at two different locations.
    • Limited milk replacer was provided to all calves.
    • Growth performance, feed consumption, feed efficiency, rumen pH, volatile fatty acid profiles, and incidence of scours and bloat were monitored.

    Main Results:

    • Calves fed the cottonseed hull ration consumed more starter and exhibited greater body weight gain compared to those fed alfalfa hay or alfalfa-beet pulp.
    • No significant differences in feed efficiency, rumen pH, or volatile fatty acid molar ratios were observed between the fiber sources, indicating similar rumen development.
    • Calves at the Puyallup location demonstrated superior weight gain and feed efficiency compared to those at Pullman, potentially due to environmental factors.

    Conclusions:

    • Cottonseed hulls may enhance starter acceptability and promote greater weight gain in young Holstein calves, although the underlying mechanism requires further investigation.
    • The choice of fiber source did not significantly alter rumen development or function in this study.
    • Location-specific environmental factors, such as temperature, may influence calf growth performance and efficiency, highlighting the importance of management adjustments.

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