Evaluation of Rice Straw Based Rations Containing Different Forms of Urea in Steers

Four rumen fistulated steers were kept under different feeding regimen viz. four kg rice straw supplemented with (I) concentrate mixtare containing l% urea; (II) urea molasses mineral block (UMMB); (III) 4 kg rice straw impregnated with liquid uirea molasses mixture before feeding or; (TV) 4 kg rice straw treated with 4% urea atone. The intake (g/d) in steers from UMMB was low due to its hardness. CP digestibility in steers Fed on ration I and IV was higher (P<0.01) that those on II and III. Cellulose digestibility (P<0.05), nitrogen (N) retention (P<0.01) and DCP intake (P<0.05) were significantly higher for urea treated rice straw (IV) ration compared to other rations. The cost of feeding was Rs.7.31, 3.61, 3.78 and 4.08/d for rations I to IV, respectively. The non-protein nitrogen utilization by the steers was superior with urea treated rice straw compared to those containing urea in other forms.