Different levels of NDF in the solid diet of dairy calves: effects on performance, metabolism and behavior

Author(s)

Milaine Poczynek

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: Piracicaba.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALA/BC)
• Defense date: 2019-03-01

Examining board members

Carla Maris Machado Bittar; João Henrique Cardoso Costa; Alexandre Mendonça Pedroso; Daniel Montanher Polizel

• Advisor: Carla Maris Machado Bittar

Abstract

The solid diet is a determinant factor for the ruminal development. However it is still unclear what the optimal fiber content in the solid diet during the first few months of life. The present work evaluated 35 Holstein animals housed in individual suspended cages, which were submitted to three treatments: I - conventional starter containing 22.0 NDF, II - starter with 31% NDF, replacing part of the corn by soybean hull and III - conventional concentrate with 22.0% NDF plus coast-cross hay ad libitum. All animals received 4L of milk replacer with 12.5% solids, divided into two meals daily. Weight gain was monitored weekly, body measurements, metabolic indicators for ruminal development and intermediate metabolism, as well as ruminal and behavioral parameters were also evaluated. The animals were evaluated until the eighth week of life, when they were weaned. The increase of the NDF content in the starter up to 31% with the replacement of corn per soybean hull or hay supply did not change the starter consumption and performance. The 31FDN diet early stimulated the differentiation of the ruminal epithelium by the higher concentration of SCFA at younger ages. Soybean hulls are considered an energy source that can be used in the formulation of starter for pre-weaned calves in the proportions used in this study. However, the supply of hay is more interesting for the reduction of unwanted behaviors. The 22% NDF content in the initial concentrate did not cause lower ruminal and fecal pH in comparison with high NDF diets, showing that NDF starter and particle distribution similar to this study can be safely offered. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/10076-5 - Effect of differing NDF levels in the solid diet on performance, metabolism and ruminal development of dairy calves
• Grantee: Milaine Poczynek
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master