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The influence of feeding frequency on feed intake, nutrient utilization and nitrogen metabolism in growing zebu cattle

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  27 March 2009

U. J. Ikhatua ,
O. W. Ehoche  and
J. E. Umoh
U. J. Ikhatua
Affiliation:
National Animal Production Research Institute, Ahmadu Bello University, P.M.B. 1096, Zaria, Nigeria
O. W. Ehoche
Affiliation:
National Animal Production Research Institute, Ahmadu Bello University, P.M.B. 1096, Zaria, Nigeria
J. E. Umoh
Affiliation:
National Animal Production Research Institute, Ahmadu Bello University, P.M.B. 1096, Zaria, Nigeria
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Summary

Eighteen bulls were used to investigate the influence of feeding frequency on feed consumption, nutrient utilization and nitrogen metabolism in growing zebu cattle.

Results indicated higher feed intake, nutrient utilization and average daily live-weight gains for animals fed two or three times daily compared with those fed once daily. Feed efficiency and feed cost per kg gain as well as nitrogen metabolism also increased as the frequency of feeding increased from once to three times daily.

More frequent feeding could evidently be of practical advantage in intensive beef cattle production where zebu cattle are raised on tropical hay diets.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Journal of Agricultural Science , Volume 108 , Issue 3 , June 1987 , pp. 639 - 642
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1987

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