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Influence of Body Condition and Lasalocid During Late Gestation on Blood Metabolites, Lamb Birth Weight and Colostrum Composition and Production in Finn-Cross Ewes^1,2,3,

Montana State University, Bozeman 59717

Abstract

The objective of this experiment was to examine the effects of body condition (BC) and of lasalocid (L) the last 4 wk of gestation on blood metabolite profiles, lamb birth weight and colostrum composition and production. Twenty-eight 3-yr-old Finn-Targhee ewes (73 kg) were assigned randomly within BC grouping (2.5 or 3.5) and individually fed a diet of 90% alfalfa pellets and 10% of a supplement containing either no L (C = control) or L. Gestation and 24-h postlambing weights were higher (P < .05) for 3.5 BC versus 2.5 BC ewes. Lasalocid had no effect (P > .05) on ewe weight. Average number of lambs born within treatment groups were similar (P > .05). Total kilograms of lamb born were greater (P < .10) for 3.5 BC ewes. Body condition 3.5 ewes had greater concentrations of total protein (P < .10) and albumin (P < .05) the last 4 wk of gestation than those in the 2.5 BC group. Feeding L decreased (P < .05) blood urea-N in comparison with C ewes. Colostrum composition and production were not influenced (P > .05) by BC, L or number of lambs born. Serum 3-hydroxybutyrate seemed to be a good indicator of energy metabolism; albumin and blood urea-N concentrations reflected dietary protein intake. Lasalocid had a minimal effect on nutrient metabolism and productivity of ewes fed in excess of the NRC (1985) protein and energy requirements.

¹ Contribution from Montana Agric. Exp. Sta., journal series no. 1903.

² Appreciation is expressed to G. Bohn, P. Jordan and F. Stewert for assistance in feeding and care of animals. Also to Hoffman-LaRoche, Inc. and W. C. Brandt and the USDA Sheep Exp. Sta.-ARS, Dubois, ID, for financial support.

³ Lasalocid-sodium: Hoffman-LaRoche, Inc. Identification of comparnies does not imply endorsement of products.

⁴ Dept. of Anim. and Range Sci.

⁵ Coop. Ext. Serv.