IMPACTS OF CONCENTRATE FEEDING LEVEL WITH OR WITHOUT N-CARBAMYLGLUTAMATE ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GOATS

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding three levels of concentrate 2%, 3%, and 4% with or without additives of N-carbamylglutamate (NCG) on the digestibility, feed efficiency, and daily gain of Shami goats. Twenty-four male goats were used aged 8-10 months with an initial weight 32.687 ± 1.52kg divided into six treatments in a 2×3 factorial experiment/ Completely Randomized Design. Individual feeding was used for 70 days preceded by 14 days as an adaptation period. The results of increasing concentrate showed a non-significant increase in nutrients intake with superiority of NCG treatments and a significant increase (P<0.01) of ether extract intake. Non-significant increase in digestibility with increasing feed intake. Significant increases (P<0.01) in total and daily gain of 3% concentrate with or without NCG and non-significant increases for final weight. The better feed efficiency with 3% concentrate then 2% and 4% respectively. In conclusion: A level of feeding 3% had a positive effect on animal performance and the best for fattening.

Keywords

• high concentrate, digestibility, feed additives, daily gain, ruminant.