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The effect of the reproductive state of ewes on their voluntary intake of diets varying in straw content

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  27 March 2009

J. B. Owen ,
R. F. Lee ,
P. M. Lerman  and
E. L. Miller
J. B. Owen
Affiliation:
Department of Applied Biology, University of Cambridge
R. F. Lee
Affiliation:
Department of Applied Biology, University of Cambridge
P. M. Lerman
Affiliation:
Department of Applied Biology, University of Cambridge
E. L. Miller
Affiliation:
Department of Applied Biology, University of Cambridge
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Summary

Two experiments, involving a total of 112 sheep, are described, in which ewes at different reproductive states were given complete diets with a varying grain: straw ratio. In Expt 1 ewes at three reproductive states (dry, pregnant and lactating) were given diets with four levels of coarsely ground oat straw (10, 25, 40 and 55% straw). In Expt 2 ewes in five reproductive states (early pregnancy, mid pregnancy, late pregnancy, lactation and dry) were given a basal diet similar to that given in Expt 1 but with five levels of straw (15, 25, 36, 45 and 55% straw).

The results showed that the intake of ewes varied with reproductive state, the highest intakes occurring during lactation. No significant diet × reproductive state interaction was observed which suggests that in ewes the physiological state can override some of the physical limitations to intake imposed by increased dietary roughage concentration.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Journal of Agricultural Science , Volume 94 , Issue 3 , June 1980 , pp. 637 - 644
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1980

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