J. Anim Sci.
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J. Anim Sci. 1968. 27:1418-1425.
© 1968 American Society of Animal Science
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Voluntary Feed Intake of Pelleted Diets for Cattle, Sheep and Rabbits as Affected by Different Alkali Supplements1

Asok Nath Bhattacharya and R. G. Warner

Cornell University2, Ithaca, New York

Abstract

Four fistulated Holstein heifers and four wethers were used in a Latin square experiment to determine the effect of adding Ca(OH)2, Na2CO3 or NaHCO3 to a pelleted high-concentrate diet on voluntary intake. In all cases, the alkali supplements significantly (P<0.01) improved feed consumption during the 1-wk. experimental period. Ca(OH)2 was superior to the other two supplements for wethers (P<0.01). The alkali treatments increased the rumen pH, total rumen VFA concentration and reduced blood VFA levels (P<0.01). No effect on blood pH, blood glucose, plasma bicarbonate or plasma free fatty acid levels were observed. Water intake and urine pH was measured only for the wethers and was significantly (P<0.01) increased by the supplements. A suggested mode of action of the supplements regarding voluntary feed intake is discussed. Ca(OH)2 added to a complete rabbit diet significantly (P<0.01) increased feed intake and growth rate. It also increased cecal pH and plasma free fatty acids while decreasing (P<0.01) blood VFA.

Footnotes

1 This project was supported in part by a grant from the U.S.D.A. CSRS No. 427-15-17. The authors acknowledge with thanks the assistance of Mr. Robert Brokaw and Mr. Robert Mack for their care of the experimental animals and Mrs. Jane Wills for assistance with the chemical analysis.

2 Department of Animal Science.






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Copyright © 1968 by the American Society of Animal Science.