Effect of protein dietary protein levels on milk component, udder parameters, blood and physiological indices of West African dwarf goat

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of protein supplementation at 12%, 14% and 16.41% crude protein (CP) levels on the milk yield of West African dwarf dams. A total of twelve lactating dams, which were intensively managed and hand-milked on weekly basis were used for the study. Feed intakes, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and protein efficiency ratios (PER) were monitored. Milk and blood samples were taken. The udder morphometry and milk composition were determined. Result showed that the dry matter and crude protein values ranged between 89.7 and 90.1% and 11.51 and 14.88% respectively. Dams on 12% protein supplemented feed recorded the highest daily dry matter intake (DMI) of (203.63 g/day) while, 16% protein supplemented feed had the least DMI (195.54 g/day). The value of crude fiber ranged between 9.98 and 13.31% while the value of ash ranged between 6.23 and 9.99%. Also, the values of ether extract ranged between 2.88 and 6.65%. Dams on 16% protein diet gained significantly (p<0.05) more weight (106.19g/day) and had the least feed conversion ratio (1.88). Milk component and nutrient digestibility did not vary among diets except for ether extract that was least in dams on 16% CP level. Dams on 14% and 16% protein diet supported the highest calcium concentration. Udder parameters and blood indices were not significantly (p>0.05) influenced by dietary protein levels. The rectal, respiratory and pulse rate were within the normal range. Pulse rate was more normal in dams on 12% and 16% dietary protein level. It can therefore be concluded that 16% crude protein level could be used for lactating West African dwarf dams to improve milk production and health condition of lactating dams.

Keywords: Protein levels; milk component; udder parameters; blood; physiological parameters