Selected animal and plant protein sources affect nutrient digestibility and fecal characteristics of ileally cannulated dogs.

The objective of this study was to compare ileal and total tract nutrient digestibilities and fecal characteristics of dogs fed selected animal and plant protein sources incorporated into grain-based diets. Four crude protein sources--soybean meal (SBM), poultry meal (PM), poultry by-product meal (PBPM), and beef and bone meal (BBM)--were fed to four ileal cannulated dogs in a 4 x 4 Latin square design. Intakes of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, and fat by dogs were similar. Total dietary fiber (TDF) intake was highest for the SBM treatment compared to other treatments. Ileal digestibilities of DM, OM, CP, fat, and TDF were not affected by treatment. Total tract digestibility of DM was lower for the BBM and SBM diets, while OM digestibility was lower for the SBM treatment only. Total tract CP digestibility was similar for BBM, PBPM, and SBM treatments and was higher for the PM treatment. As-is fecal excretion [g/d] was greater when dogs received the SBM treatment. Fecal output on a DM basis was higher for the SBM treatment compared to the other treatments. All diets were well utilized by the dogs as assessed by ileal and total tract digestibility data and fecal characteristics.     

Influence of urea molasses treated wheat straw fermented with cattle manure on chemical composition and feeding value for growing buffalo calves

The study was conducted to examine the chemical composition of urea–molasses treated wheat straw (WS) fermented with cattle manure (CM) and its feeding value for growing buffalo male calves. Wheat straw treated with varying levels of urea (0%, 2% and 4%) and molasses (2% and 4%) was ensiled with 30% cattle manure (on dry matter basis) for different fermentation periods (20, 30 and 40 days). Fermented wheat straw (FWS) after each fermentation period was analyzed for pH, dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), true protein (TP), ammonia nitrogen (NH₃-N), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF). Maximum pH, DM, CP, TP and NH₃-N and minimum NDF contents were observed with 4% urea. The 4% molasses level increased the CP, TP and NH₃-N contents of FWS, but pH, DM and NDF remained unchanged after 40 days of fermentation. The 4% urea × 4% molasses interaction resulted in maximum DM, CP, TP, NH₃-N after 40 days of fermentation period and this combination was used for large scale production of FWS to evaluate its feeding value for calves. Four isonitrogen and isocaloric diets were formulated. The control FWS 0 diet contained no FWS while in FWS 15, FWS 25 and FWS 35 diets concentrate was replaced with 15%, 25% and 35% FWS, respectively. The diets were randomly allotted to four groups of 28 calves 9–12 months of age, seven in each group, in a randomized complete block design to examine the nutrient intake, digestibility, nitrogen balance and weight gain. An increased DM, organic matter (OM), CP and NDF intakes were observed in calves fed FWS diets compared to those fed FWS 0 diet. Nitrogen retention increased significantly with increasing the level of FWS. The DM, OM, CP and NDF apparent digestibilities were non-significant in calves fed different levels of FWS. A linear increase in weight gain was noticed in calves fed diets containing increasing level of FWS.     

Effects of spray-dried animal plasma on intake and apparent digestibility in dogs

Effects of spray-dried animal plasma (SDAP) on intake and apparent digestibility of major dietary components were determined using 22 adult Beagles. Trials 1 and 2 used six and eight dogs, respectively, in a switchback design using 10-d periods. Trial 3 used eight dogs in a replicated 4 x 4 Latin square design with 15-d periods. The final 5 d of each period were used for measurement of intake and fecal collections. In Trial 1, dry extruded dog food kibbles were coated with 5% tallow, 2% commercial flavor, and 0 or 2% SDAP (as-fed basis). In Trial 2, commercially available dry dog food, previously coated with fat and flavor were coated with 0 or 2% SDAP. In Trial 3, SDAP (0, 1, 2, or 3%) was blended with other ingredients and extruded (as-fed basis). Kibbles were subsequently coated with 5% poultry fat and 1% commercial flavor. Intake, fecal consistency, and apparent digestibility of nutrients were determined. Addition of SDAP did not markedly affect chemical composition of diets and did not affect intake. Digestibility of DM was improved (P < 0.04) an average of 3.2% when 2% SDAP was included in the diet for all trials. Organic matter digestibility was improved (P < 0.01) in Trials 2 and 3 by an average of 2.9%. Also, digestibility of crude fiber (Trials 1 and 2) or total dietary fiber (Trial 3) was increased with addition of SDAP to the diet (P < 0.01). Fecal DM excretion was decreased by an average of 15% across all trials with the addition of SDAP. Spray-dried animal plasma was an acceptable ingredient in dry dog food preparations, resulting in improved digestion and decreased fecal output. Changes in digestion that occurred with addition of SDAP suggested alteration in digestive capacity in dogs.     

Nutrient digestibility and fecal characteristics,microbiota, and metabolites in dogs fed human-grade foods

Human-grade (HG) pet foods are commercially available, but they have not been well studied. Our objective was to determine the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of HG pet foods and evaluate their effects on fecal characteristics, microbiota, and metabolites, serum metabolites, and hematology of dogs. Twelve dogs (mean age = 5.5 ± 1.0; BW = 11.6 ± 1.6 kg) were used in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design (n = 12/treatment). The diets included 1) Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe (extruded; Blue Buffalo); 2) Roasted Meals Tender Chicken Recipe (fresh; Freshpet); 3) Beef and Russet Potato Recipe (HG beef; JustFoodForDogs); and 4) Chicken and White Rice Recipe (HG chicken; JustFoodForDogs). Each period consisted of 28 d, with a 6-d diet transition phase, 16 d of consuming 100% of the diet, a 5-d phase for fecal collection, and 1 d for blood collection. All data were analyzed using the Mixed Models procedure of SAS 9.4. Dogs fed the extruded diet required a higher (P < 0.05) daily food intake (dry matter basis, DMB) to maintain BW. The ATTD of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), energy, and acid-hydrolyzed fat (AHF) were greater (P < 0.05) in dogs fed the HG diets than those fed the fresh diet, and greater (P < 0.05) in dogs fed the fresh diet than those fed the extruded diet. Crude protein ATTD was lower (P < 0.05) for dogs fed the extruded diet than those fed all other diets. Dogs fed the extruded diet had greater (P < 0.05) fecal output (as-is; DMB) than dogs fed fresh (1.5–1.7 times greater) or HG foods (2.0–2.9 times greater). There were no differences in fecal pH, scores, and metabolites, but microbiota were affected by diet. Dogs fed HG beef had higher (P < 0.05) relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and lower (P < 0.05) relative abundance of Firmicutes than dogs fed the fresh or HG chicken diets. The Actinobacteria, Fusobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Spirochaetes phyla were unchanged (P > 0.05), but diet modified the relative abundance of nearly 20 bacterial genera. Similar to previous reports, these data demonstrate that the fecal microbiota of dogs fed HG or fresh diets is markedly different than those consuming extruded diets, likely due to ingredient, nutrient, and processing differences. Serum metabolites and hematology were not greatly affected by diet. In conclusion, the HG pet foods tested resulted in significantly reduced fecal output, were highly digestible, maintained fecal characteristics, serum chemistry, and hematology, and modified the fecal microbiota of dogs.     

Plasma glucose concentrations and digestibility of dry matter, energy and crude protein in mature geldings fed wheat and oat-based diets

Eight mature stock horse geldings were used in two simultaneous 4×4 Latin square experiments to determine the effect of feeding graded levels of wheat and oats on post prandial glucose concentrations and digestibility of dry matter (DM), energy and crude protein (CP). Experimental concentrate diets consisted of 100 (W), 66 (WO), 33 (OW) and 0 (O) percent wheat with the balance as oats. Concentrate diets were fed in a 60:40 ratio with prairie grass hay at equal DM intakes across treatments. The digestibility of DM and energy was greatest for W (p<.05) as compared to OW and O. No significant differences were detected in total tract apparent protein digestibility. Plasma glucose concentrations were highest in geldings fed W (p<.05) beginning 90 min post feeding and remained elevated out to 4 h indicative of the higher starch content of wheat. No palatability or health problems associated with feeding of wheat were noted. These data indicate that wheat can successfully be included in rations for horses.     

Digestibility of a complete ration in horses fed once or three times a day and correlation with key blood parameters

To determine the influence of feeding frequency on apparent digestibility and blood metabolites in horses, four geldings were fed a complete ration either once (at 08:00 h) or three times a day (at 08:00, 13:00 and 18:00 h). Horses were provided with a mixture of cereals and chopped alfalfa hay at maintenance level for energy supply, 344 kJ/kg BW(0.75) on a daily basis. After three weeks' adaptation, total amounts of faeces and urine were collected for five days, using collection harnesses. Serial blood samples were taken at -30, -15, 0, 5, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240, 300, 360, 480 and 600 min after feeding and analysed for glucose, L-lactate, triglycerides (TG), non-esterified free fatty acids (NEFA) and triiodothyronine (T(3)). Apparent digestibility coefficients of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), crude fibre (CF), ash and nitrogen-free extract (NFE) were not significantly different (P>0.05) between the two feeding frequencies. Basal plasma glucose, plasma glucose curves and other plasma blood metabolites were not affected by meal frequency. The horses fed the whole ration in one morning feeding did not consume the entire meal at once, but spared feed for ingestion throughout the day, which may explain the lack of effect. Feeding frequency did not affect plasma glucose response (area under curve :AUC) (P=0.705), but AUC (glucose) was negatively correlated with CP (R(2)=0.76; P=0.005) and CF digestibility (R(2)=0.61; P=0.022). Further research is needed to clarify whether different endocrine responses or differences in passage rate can explain these correlations.     

Feed intake, nutrient digestibility and ruminal fermentation activities in sheep-fed peanut hulls treated with Trichoderma viride or urea

This study aimed to assess impacts of fungal treatment on the nutritional value of peanut hulls (PH) or urea at the rate of 5 kg/100 g of PH. Fermented sugar beet pulp inoculated with Trichoderma viride was supplemented to PH at rates of 5.0, 10.0 and 15.0 g/100 g air dry of PH and mixed well before aerobic incubation for 21 days. Organic matter (OM) content of PH declined with increased levels of fermented sugar beet pulp inoculums, while crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), and ash increased. Fiber contents were decreased with both treatments of fermented sugar beet pulp and urea. Total N of PH increased with urea treatment, which reduced the true protein N to total protein N ratio. In sacco degradabilities of dry matter (DM), OM, and CP with urea treatment increased compared with fungal treatment. The DM intake of peanut hulls treated with fungus (PHF) was higher (P?<?0.05) than with peanut hulls treated with urea (PHU). Digestibility of OM, CP, neutral detergent fiber, and non-fiber carbohydrate by native breed Ossimi sheep with PH were higher (P?<?0.05) than with PH or urea treated PH. The intakes, losses, and balance of N increased (P?<?0.01) with PHF versus PH feeding. Feeding PHF increased (P?<?0.01) ruminal concentrations of NH₃-N, acetic acid, butyric acid, and the acetic to propionic acid ratio. Bacterial and protozoal counts increased (P?<?0.05) with feeding PHF or PHU versus PH. Overall, this fungal treatment of peanut hulls created a higher nutritive value feed for ruminants.     

Influence of dirlotapide, a microsomal triglyceride transfer protein inhibitor, on the digestibility of a dry expanded diet in adult dogs

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of dirlotapide, a microsomal triglyceride transfer protein inhibitor, on apparent nutrient digestibility of an expanded dry dog food, on defecation frequency and fecal consistency. Eighteen beagles were randomized to either placebo ( n  = 6) or dirlotapide ( n  = 12). Testing was divided into a 21-day adaptation phase (days −21 to −1) and a 35-day treatment (digestibility testing) phase (days 0–35). During the treatment phase, dogs were administered oral dirlotapide (0.3 mg/kg) or placebo (0.06 mL/kg) once daily. For digestibility testing, feces were collected over two periods for 7 days each starting on days −9 and 28. All dogs were fed a commercial adult dog food throughout the study. Food intake was adjusted to maintain body weight during adaptation, followed by pair-feeding placebo dogs the amount of food ingested by the dirlotapide dogs during the treatment period. Dogs in both groups had reduced food intake and lost similar amounts of body weight during treatment. Dogs receiving 0.3 mg dirlotapide/kg once daily had a small but significant ( P  = 0.018) decrease (6.16 ± 2.22%, mean ± SD) in crude fat digestibility compared with the placebo-treated food-restricted dogs, but no difference in crude protein, dry matter, or energy digestibility was observed. Fecal consistency and volume and defecation frequency were similar between groups. Dirlotapide effectively reduced appetite and energy intake without affecting nutrient digestibility, except for a minimal decrease in fat digestibility.     

Ileal and total tract nutrient digestibilities and fecal characteristics of dogs as affected by soybean protein inclusion in dry, extruded diets

Plant-based protein sources are generally less variable in chemical composition than animal-based protein sources. However, relatively few data are available on the nutrient digestibilities of plant-based protein sources by companion animals. The effects of including selected soybean protein sources in dog diets on nutrient digestion at the ileum and in the total tract, as well as on fecal characteristics, were evaluated. Six protein sources were used: soybean meal (SBM), Soyafluff 200W (soy flour), Profine F (traditional aqueous-alcohol extracted soy protein concentrate [SPC 1]), Profine E (extruded SPC [SPC 2]), Soyarich I (modified molecular weight SPC [SPC 3]), and poultry meal (PM). All diets were extruded and kibbled. Test ingredients varied in CP and fat contents; however, diets were formulated to be isonitrogenous and isocaloric. Nutrient intakes were similar, except for total dietary fiber (TDF), which was lower (P < 0.01) for dogs fed the PM diet. Apparent ileal digestibilities of DM, OM, fat, and TDF were not different among treatments; however, CP digestibility at the terminal ileum was higher (P < 0.01) for diets containing soy protein sources than for PM. Total tract CP digestibility was greater (P < 0.01) for soy protein-containing diets than for PM. Apparent total tract digestibilities of DM, OM, fat, and TDF were not different among treatments. Apparent amino acid digestibilities at the terminal ileum, excluding methionine, threonine, alanine, and glycine, were higher (P < 0.01) for soy protein-containing diets than for PM. Dogs fed SPC diets had lower (P < 0.01) fecal outputs (g asis feces/g DMI) than dogs fed the SF diet, and dogs fed SBM tended (P < 0.11) to have lower fecal outputs than dogs fed the SF diet. However, dogs fed the PM diet had lower (P < 0.03) fecal outputs than dogs fed SPC-containing diets. Fecal outputs and scores reflected the TDF and nonstructural carbohydrate contents of the soy protein fraction. Soy protein sources are well utilized by the dog prior to the terminal ileum, and SPC offers a viable alternative to PM as a protein source in dry, extruded canine diets.     

Effects of species and season on chemical composition and ruminal crude protein and organic matter degradability of some multi-purpose tree species by West African dwarf rams

Seasonal chemical composition and ruminal organic matter (OM) and crude protein (CP) degradabilities were determined in four tropical multi-purpose tree species (MPTS) namely; Pterocarpus santalinoides, Grewia pubescens, Enterolobium cyclocarpum and Leucaena leucocephala. Three West African dwarf (WAD) rams fitted with permanent rumen cannula were used for the degradability trials. Foliage samples were collected four times to represent seasonal variations as follows: January--mid dry; April--late dry; July--mid rainy and October--late rainy seasons. Leaf samples were randomly collected from the trees for estimation of dry matter (DM) and chemical composition. Ruminal in sacco OM and CP degradabilities were estimated from residues in nylon bags. All samples had high CP (161-259 g/kg DM) and moderate fibre concentrations [neutral detergent fibre (without residual ash], 300-501 g/kg DM; acid detergent fibre (without residual ash), 225-409 g/kg DM and acid detergent lignin, 87-179 g/kg DM across seasons. Interaction effects of species and season on chemical composition were highly significant (p = 0.001) except for trypsin inhibitor (p = 0.614). The MPTS recorded more than 60% OM and CP degradability at 24 h, which implied that they were all highly degradable in the rumen. Their incorporation into ruminant feeding systems as dry season forage supplements is therefore recommended.     

Influence of soil pH and fertilization on the dry matter production,chemical composition and digestibility of perennial grasses: I. Anthephora pubescens nees 1

Abstract

The influence of soil pH and fertilization (N, P and Zn) on the dry matter (DM) production, chemical composition (crude protein, P, K, Ca, Mg and Zn content) and organic matter (OM) digestibility of Anthephora pubescens Nees was evaluated in pots. The highest Dm production was obtained in the neutral soil medium (pH 6,5 in H₂O). Both the acid (pH 4,5 in H₂O) and alkaline (pH 7,5 in H₂O) soil mediums adversely affected DM yield, crude protein (CP), Zn content and OM digestibility of A. pubescens. Fertilization invariably increased DM production.     

Effect of starch gelatinisation on nutrient digestibility and plasma metabolites in pigeons

Feed manufacturing exerts physical and chemical changes in ingredients, including the gelatinisation of starch. Studies on the effect of the degree of starch gelatinisation on nutrient digestibility, metabolism and subsequent performance show inconsistent results, and no data are available in pigeons. In a cross‐over trial, fourteen adult pigeons were randomly divided into two groups, in which two extruded pellet diets were tested. Both the diets were similar in ingredient composition and nutrient content, but differed in extrusion conditions, resulting in a different degree of starch gelatinisation: pellets with high gelatinisation degree (HG; 73.6% gelatinisation) and low gelatinisation degree (LG; 53.1% gelatinisation). After a 14‐day adaptation period, all excreta were gathered per bird during a 5‐day collection period. Coefficients of apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), crude fibre (CF), crude ash (CA) and nitrogen free extract (NFE) as well as apparent nitrogen retention were calculated from proximate analyses of feed and excreta. Further, excreta consistency was subjectively scored. Blood samples were taken at the end of each period and plasma samples were analysed for glucose, fructosamine and triglycerides. Feed intake and body weight changes were recorded weekly. The apparent digestibility coefficients (ADCs) of DM, OM, CP, EE, CA and NFE were significantly higher in the LG group (p ≤ 0.05). The ADC of crude fibre was numerically higher in the LG group but not significant, and no significant differences were found in starch digestibility. Excreta consistency score tended to be higher in the LG diet group. Neither plasma glucose nor plasma fructosamine values were significantly different between the two test diets. The results of this study show that lower degree of starch gelatinisation in extruded diets can enhance digestibility in pigeons.     

Influence of amount and frequency of protein supplementation to steers consuming low-quality,cool-season forage: intake,nutrient digestibility,and ruminal fermentation

This experiment evaluated the influence of protein supplementation frequency (SF) and amount offered on intake, nutrient digestibility, and ruminal fermentation by rumen-fistulated beef steers consuming low-quality [2.9% crude protein (CP); dry matter (DM) basis], cool-season forage. Seven Angus × Hereford steers (300 ± 27 kg) fitted with ruminal cannulas were randomly assigned to 1 of 7 treatments in an incomplete 7 × 4 Latin square. Treatments, in a 2 × 3 factorial design plus a non-supplemented control (CON), consisted of 2 levels of supplemental soybean meal, 100% (F) or 50% (H) of the estimated rumen-degradable protein requirement, provided daily (D), once every 5 d (5D), or once every 10 d (10D). Experimental periods were 30 d and dry matter intake (DMI) was measured from days 19 to 28. On days 21 (all supplements provided) and 30 (only daily supplements provided; day immediately prior to supplementation for 5D and 10D treatments) ruminal fluid was collected for ruminal pH, ammonia-N (NH₃), volatile fatty acids (VFA), and determination of ruminal fermentation variables. Forage and total DM, organic matter (OM), and nitrogen (N) intake increased with supplementation (P ≤ 0.04). However, a linear effect of SF × amount of supplement interaction was observed for forage and total DM, OM, and N intake (P ≤ 0.04), with each variable decreasing as SF decreased, but the decrease being greater with F vs. H. Apparent total tract DM, OM, and neutral detergent fiber digestibility was not affected by supplementation or amount of supplement provided (P ≥ 0.10). In contrast, N digestibility increased with supplementation and for F vs. H (P < 0.01). Digestibility of DM, OM, and N increased linearly as SF decreased (P ≤ 0.03). When all supplements were provided, ruminal NH₃, total VFA, and molar proportions of all individual VFA increased with supplementation (P ≤ 0.04), whereas acetate:propionate ratio decreased (P < 0.01). When only daily supplements were provided, none of the aforementioned fermentation parameters were affected (P ≥ 0.09). In summary, reducing the amount of supplemental CP provided to ruminants consuming low-quality forages, when supplementation intervals are >5 d, can be a management tool to maintain acceptable levels of DMI, nutrient digestibility, and ruminal fermentation while reducing supplementation cost.     

Effect of dry, soft moist, and canned dog foods on postprandial blood glucose and insulin concentrations in healthy dogs

The effect of dry, soft moist, and canned dog foods on immediate postprandial plasma glucose and insulin concentrations was evaluated in clinically normal dogs. Dogs were fed either dry (10 dogs; group I), soft moist (10 dogs; group II), or canned (8 dogs; group III) dog food for 5 consecutive days. On the fifth day, plasma glucose and insulin concentrations were determined in each dog prior to, during, and at 5, 10, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 180, and 240 minutes after ingestion of the food. The alterations in plasma glucose concentrations were not significantly different from prefeeding values until 240 and 180 minutes after feeding for groups I and III, respectively. In contrast, the increments in plasma glucose were significantly (P less than 0.01) increased from basal concentrations at 30 and 45 minutes after feeding in group-II dogs. The maximal mean postprandial plasma glucose concentration was significantly (P less than 0.0001) less for group III, compared with concentrations for groups I and II, but there was no significant difference between concentrations for groups I and II. Although a biphasic insulin secretory response was found in all 3 groups of dogs, the patterns of phase-2 insulin secretion and the total amount of insulin secreted during the study were significantly different. There was a rapid increase in the plasma insulin concentration immediately after phase 1 in group II, with maximal plasma insulin concentrations occurring 30 minutes after feeding, followed by a gradual decrease in concentrations throughout the remainder of the study.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Processing index of barley grain and dietary undigested neutral detergent fiber concentration affected chewing behavior,ruminal pH,and total tract nutrient digestibility of heifers fed a high-grain diet

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of processing index (PI) of barley grain and dietary undigested neutral detergent fiber (uNDF) concentration on dry matter (DM) intake, chewing activity, ruminal pH and fermentation characteristics, total tract digestibility, gastrointestinal barrier function, and blood metabolites of finishing beef heifers. The PI was measured as the density after processing expressed as a percentage of the density before processing, and a smaller PI equates to a more extensively processed. Six ruminally cannulated heifers (average body weight, 715 ± 29 kg) were used in a 6 × 6 Latin square design with three PI (65%, 75%, and 85%) × 2 uNDF concentration (low and high; 4.6% vs. 5.6% of DM) factorial arrangement. The heifers were fed ad libitum a total mixed ration consisting of 10% barley silage (low uNDF), or 5% silage and 5% straw (high uNDF), 87% dry-rolled barley grain, and 3% mineral and vitamin supplements. Interactions (P < 0.01) of PI × uNDF were observed for DM intake, ruminating and total chewing time, and DM digestibility in the total digestive tract. Intake of DM, organic matter (OM), starch, and crude protein (CP) did not differ (P > 0.14) between low and high uNDF diets, but intakes of NDF and acid detergent fiber were greater (P = 0.01) for high uNDF diets regardless of barley PI. Heifers fed high uNDF diets had longer (P = 0.05) eating times (min/d or min/kg DM) and tended (P = 0.10) to have longer total chewing times (min/kg DM) than those fed low uNDF diets. Additionally, heifers sorted (P = 0.01) against long particles (>19 mm) for high uNDF diets but not for low uNDF diets. Altering PI of barley grain did not affect (P > 0.12) total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration, molar percentages of individual VFA, or duration of ruminal pH < 5.8 and <5.6. Total VFA concentration was less (P = 0.01), acetate percentage was greater (P = 0.01), and duration of ruminal pH < 5.8 and <5.6 was less (P = 0.05) for high compared with low uNDF diets. Digestibility of DM, OM, and CP was greater (P = 0.02) for low vs. high uNDF diets with PI of 65% and 75%, with no difference between low and high uNDF diets at PI of 85%. Blood metabolites and gastrointestinal tract barrier function were not affected (P ≥ 0.10) by the treatments. These results suggest that increasing dietary uNDF concentration is an effective strategy to improve ruminal pH status in finishing cattle, regardless of the extent of grain processing, whereas manipulating the extent of barley processing did not reduce the risk of ruminal acidosis.     

Evaluation of graded levels of Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086 on apparent nutrient digestibility,stool quality,and intestinal health indicators in healthy adult dogs

Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086 is a commercially available spore-forming non-toxigenic microorganism approved for use in dog foods with high resiliency to stresses associated with commercial manufacturing. The objectives of this research were to examine the effect of B. coagulans on stool quality, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal health markers in healthy adult dogs. Extruded diets containing graded levels of B. coagulans applied either to the base ration before extrusion or to the exterior of the kibble as a topical coating after extrusion were randomly assigned to 10 individually housed adult beagle dogs (7 castrated males and 3 spayed females) of similar age (5.75 ± 0.23 yr) and body weight (12.3 ± 1.5 kg). The study was designed as a 5 × 5 replicated Latin square with 16-d adaptation followed by 5-d total fecal collection for each period. Five dietary treatments were formulated to deliver a dose of 0-, 6-, 7-, 8-, and 9-log₁₀ colony-forming units (CFU) per dog per day for the control (CON), extruded B. coagulans (PEX), and low, moderate, and high B. coagulans coating levels (PCL, PCM, and PCH), respectively. Food-grade TiO₂ was added to all diets at a level of 0.4% to serve as an indigestible dietary marker for digestibility calculations. Data were analyzed using a mixed model through SAS (version 9.4, SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, NC) with treatment as a fixed effect and room (i.e., replicate), period, and dog(room) as random effects. Apparent total tract digestibility of organic matter, crude protein, crude fat, and gross energy calculated by the marker method were numerically greatest for dogs fed the 9-log₁₀ dose treatment with increases (P < 0.05) observed in gross energy and organic matter digestibility compared with the negative control. No significant differences were observed in food intake, stool quality, fecal pH, fecal ammonia, fecal short-chain fatty acids, or branched-chain fatty acids for the extruded B. coagulans treatment (PEX) or the coated B. coagulans treatments (PCL, PCM, and PCH) compared with CON. These results suggest that B. coagulans has a favorable impact on nutrient digestibility and no apparent adverse effects when added to extruded diets at a daily intake level of up to 9-log₁₀ CFU in healthy adult dogs.     

Performance of crossbred calves with dietary supplementation of garlic extract

Twelve crossbred calves (Holstein cross) in their pre-ruminant stage were used to study the effect of garlic extract feeding on their performance and they were randomly allotted into treatment and control groups in equal number. Performance was evaluated by measuring average body weight (BW) gain, feed intake [dry matter (DM); total digestible nutrient (TDN) and crude protein (CP)], feed conversion efficiency (DM, TDN and CP), fecal score and fecal coliform count. Diets were same for both groups. In addition, treatment group received garlic extract supplementation at 250 mg/kg BW/day/calf. BW measured weekly, feed intake measured twice daily, proximate analysis of feeds and fodders analysed weekly, fecal scores monitored daily and fecal coliform count done weekly. There was a significant (p < 0.01) increase in mean BW gain and feed intake and a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in severity of scours as measured by fecal score in the treatment group compared to the control group. The results suggest that garlic extract can be supplemented to the calves for better performance.     

Effect of linseed cake supplementation on digestibility and faecal and haematological parameters in dogs

The experiment was conducted with a 6 x 4 cyclic changeover design. Six adult Alaskan huskies were assigned to diets containing 0%, 2%, 4%, 6% and 8% linseed cake. A linear decrease in the apparent digestibilities of organic matter (OM) (p < 0.020), ether extract (EE) (p < 0.003), neutral detergent fibre (p < 0.015), nitrogen-free extract (NFE) (p < 0.001) and crude carbohydrates (p < 0.001) was noted. Digestibilities of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) were unaffected by the treatment. Wet weight of faeces increased (p < 0.001) and DM of faeces decreased (p < 0.001) linearly as the percentage of dietary linseed cake increased. Serum cholesterol concentration tended to decrease (p = 0.094) as the proportion of linseed cake increased. Apparent OM, EE, CP and NFE digestibility coefficients for linseed cake were 52%, 77%, 54% and 37%, respectively, and the digestible energy (DE) value was 13.22 MJ/kg DM. Our results showed that working and racing dogs fed the extruded and kibbled diet can utilize up to 4.2% linseed cake of diet DM as a fibre source without severe reductions in nutrient digestibility or feed consumption. Even higher levels of linseed cake, up to 8.5% of diet DM, can be used for normal or obese dogs, but more faeces will be excreted.     

Influence of amount and frequency of protein supplementation to ruminants consuming low-quality cool-season forages: efficiency of nitrogen utilization in lambs and performance of gestating beef cows

We evaluated the influence of amount and crude protein (CP) supplementation frequency (SF) on nitrogen (N) use by wethers and the performance of late-gestation beef cows. In exp. 1, seven Western whiteface wethers (31.8 ± 1.4 kg) were used in an incomplete 7 × 4 Latin square to evaluate intake and N use. Wethers received one of the seven treatments in a 2 × 3 factorial design containing two levels of supplemental soybean meal offered at a rate of 100% (F) or 50% (H; 50% of F) of the estimated CP requirement daily, once every 5, or once every 10 d, plus a non-supplemented control (CON). Low-quality cool-season forage (4.9 % CP; dry matter [DM] basis) was provided daily for ad libitum intake. Experimental periods lasted 30 d. In exp. 2, 84 Angus × Hereford cows (560 ± 35 kg) were stratified by age, body condition score (BCS), and expected calving date and allocated to 1 of the 21 feedlot pens (three pens per treatment). Pens were randomly assigned to receive the same treatments as in exp. 1 and cows had free access to low-quality cool-season forage (2.9% CP; DM basis). Cow body weight (BW) and BCS were measured every 14 d until calving and within 24 h after calving. In exp. 1, supplementation did not alter total DM and organic matter (OM) intake (P ≥ 0.26), but both parameters linearly decreased as SF decreased (P = 0.02). Supplementation increased DM, OM, and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility (P ≤ 0.02). Additionally, F feeding linearly increased DM, OM, and NDF digestibility as SF decreased (P ≤ 0.04). Digestibility of N, N balance, and digested N retained were greater with supplementation (P < 0.01), and N digestibility linearly increased as SF decreased (P = 0.01). Mean plasma urea-N concentration was not only greater (P < 0.01) for supplemented vs. CON wethers but also greater (P = 0.03) for F vs. H. In exp. 2, pre-calving BCS change was greater (P = 0.03) for supplemented cows. A linear effect of SF × supplementation rate for pre-calving BCS change was noted (P = 0.05), as F-supplemented cows lost more BCS compared with H as SF decreased. When considering supplementation intervals greater than 5 d, reducing the quantity of supplement provided, compared with daily supplementation, may be a feasible management strategy to maintain acceptable nutrient use and animal performance while reducing supplement and labor costs.     

Effect of supplementing urea-treated barley straw with lucerne or vetch hays on feed intake,digestibility and growth of Arsi Bale Sheep

The study was conducted at Sinana Agricultural Research Center, Ethiopia to assess the supplementation of graded levels of vetch (Vicia dasycarpa `lana’) and lucerne (Medicago sativa,’ Hunter river’) hay on feed intake, digestibility and body weight (BW) change of Arsi-Bale sheep fed urea treated barley straw (UTBS). A 7 day- digestibility and a 90 day- feed intake trials were conducted using 28 and 35 sheep, respectively. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with seven dietary treatments that consisted of feeding UTBS (T1) as the control treatment, UTBS plus 150, 250 and 350 g dry matter (DM) per day of vetch for T2, T3, T4, respectively and UTBS plus 150, 250 and 350 g DM per day of lucerne for T5, T6 and T7, respectively. Intake of UTBS was not affected (P > 0.05) by inclusion of lucerne hay at 25–35% of daily DM intake. The supplements increased daily intake of total DM, organic matter (OM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and metabolizable energy (ME) (P < 0.001) as well as apparent digestibility of DM, OM (P < 0.001), NDF (P < 0.01), ADF, crude protein (CP) (P < 0.05) and daily BW gain (P < 0.001). Supplementation with lucerne than vetch hay promoted higher (P < 0.001) CP and ME intakes and daily BW gain. Feeding with the UTBS without supplementation was enough to meet the maintenance requirements of the sheep and allow small BW gain. The results of the study showed that urea treatment of barley straw in conjunction with supplementation of lucerne or vetch hay could serve as a useful strategy in improving smallholder sheep production in the tropics.