Effect of arsenic on nutrient utilization and performance of crossbred calves

Crossbred calves (10; 4–5 m old of 72.6 ± 7.8 kg BW) were distributed in two equal groups. The requirements of both the groups of calves were met by feeding concentrate mixture and green oats, however, the ration of calves in group 2 was supplemented with 50 ppm arsenic (As) as arsenic trioxide (As₂O₃) for 90 days to assess its impact on the performance of crossbed calves. No effect of As supplementation was evident on DM intake, digestibility of nutrients and growth rate of calves. Arsenic content of blood and hair increased by two folds in group 2 calves. Significantly (P<0.01) higher As retention in group 2 calves (97.0 vs 34.2%) suggested accumulating nature of this element in the body. It was concluded that the dietary supplementation of As @ 50 ppm for 90 days did not influence the nutrient utilization or growth of crossbred calves.