Supplementation with Concentrate in Private Ranches Improves the Milk Production of Lactating Cows in Sub Humid Zone of Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the nutritive value of concentrate supplements fed to dairy cattle in private ranches within the sub humid zone (Adamawa) of Nigeria. Data was collected using Thirty five (35) well-structured questionnaires administered to the respondents. The questionnaire comprised of questions on the history, production system and the nutritive value of concentrate supplements fed to the lactating cows on the ranches. The result showed that amongst the breeds found the proportion of those in lactation were Sokoto Gudali (23.4%), followed by White Fulani (22.6%). The production system practiced was extensive or semi-intensive 71.4% each, the basal diets fed were from grazing of sown pasture or silage (71.4%), hay or haylage (57.1%), the time frame the ranches offer concentrate diet to the dairy cows was evening (40%) and morning & evening (40%). Majority of the farms (71.4%) practiced hand milking while milking was done once or twice (50%). The production constraints recorded include high cost of concentrate feed (66.6%), low milk yield and low milk market price (16.6%). The measures suggested to improve milk production were supplementing with concentrate (85.7%), control of health issues (57.1%), good hygiene practice and up-grading breeds (42.9%). The supplemented group was higher in milk yield than the un-supplemented group. It can be concluded that Sokoto Gudali and White Fulani are the main indigenous breeds of cows kept by the private ranches and the basal diet fed was grazing and silage. The increase in milk yield was 318% for dry season and 358% for wet season higher than the un-supplemented cows which revealed that the un-supplemented cows were in poor plane of nutrition since supplementation resulted in increase in milk production. It is recommended that the private ranches should practice intensive system, establish improved pasture, and continue with silage and supplement morning and evening to get better results.