Effect of roughage level in total mixed ration on feed intake, rumen fermentation and chewing activity of rearing calves

Publication Type

Contribution to conference

Authors

Ackeren, C. van, Steingaß H., Funk R., Drochner W.

Year of publication

2007

Published in

Proc. Soc. Nutr. Physiol.

Editor

Gesellschaft für Ernährungsphysiologie

Pubisher

DLG-Verlags GmbH , Frankfurt/M

Series/labeling

Proc. Soc. Nutr. Physiol.

Page (from - to)

28

Conference location

Göttingen

Conference date

06.-08.03.2007

Keywords

chewing activity, rearing calves, rumen fermentation, TMR-Fütterung

To ensure a fast development of the rumen and a sufficient growth rate, rearing calves should be fed with roughage and concentrate (C) as early as possible. However, separate feeding of hay (H) and C often leads to excessive C intake associated with subacute rumen acidosis. Positive effects of TMR feeding on rumen environment are frequently reported for dairy cows. In the present study, the effect of two H levels (30% vs. 40%) in a TMR was tested on feed intake, rumen fermentation and chewing activity of rearing calves. Methods: 10 ruminally fistulated (Ø 2 cm) early weaned (8 weeks milk) male Holstein calves were allocated to 2 groups and observed until 16 weeks of age. Feed was offered ad libitum (8 a.m./4 p.m.). TMR with 30% H contained per kg DM: 190g CP-, 262g NDF: 11.3 MJ ME and TMR with 40% H per kg DM: 169 g CP; 313 g NDF; 10.7 MJ ME. All calves had ad libitum access to separately offered hay (per kg DM: 111 g CP; 483 g NDF; 9.0 MJ ME) and water. Liveweight, feed intake, rumen fermentation parameters (pH, VFA) and chewing activity were measured. Rumen fluid was collected -1h, 1h, 3h, 5h and 7h after morning feeding twice weekly at 7, 9, 11, 13 and 15 weeks of age. Chewing activity was measured twice weekly.