Effect of different feeding regimen on growth and reproductive performance of sahiwal heifers

To study the effect of different feeding regimen on growth and reproductive performance of Sahiwal heifers, eighteen Sahiwal heifers (2.5–3 years, 170.55 ± 19.02 kg b. wt.) were randomly divided into three groups. Heifers in control (T₁) group were fed concentrate mixture as per their nutritional requirements along with wheat straw ad libitum, whereas those in groups T₂ and T ₃ were fed same diet except that the supply of DCP and TDN were only 80 and 70% of requirements recommended by ICAR (1998), respectively. Reduced level of dietary DCP and TDN did not affect DM intake. The daily weight gain was significantly lower (P<0.05) in group T₃ whereas the reduction was not significant in group T₂ (P>0.05) in comparison of control group. Nutrient digestibility was higher (P<0.05) and fertility responses as percentages of estrous as well as conception rate were slightly higher in heifers of group T₂ than those in other groups. However, due to less number of observations, conclusion could not be drawn. The effect of different feeding regime on economics of growth revealed that the 80% level was comparable to that of control group, while the 70% level was a costlier means of heifer rearing. Hence, It is concluded that 20% reduction in the level of DCP and TDN as compared to ICAR recommendation did not affect DM intake, growth, nutrient utilization, and economics of heifer rearing adversely.