Effect of Feeding Fenugreek Seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum) as Feed Additive on Nutrient Utilization in Goats

Present study was conducted to examine the effect of raw fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenun-graecum) at the rate of 3% of DMI on nutrient utilization and rumen metabolites in goats. Twelve male non-descript goats, about 8–12 months of age, were divided into control and treatment group of six each. Control group were fed wheat straw and concentrate 60:40 ratios to meet their maintenance requirement; however in treatment group raw fenugreek seeds were added at 3% of dry matter intake. Seven days metabolism trial was conducted after 21 days of experimental feeding. There was no significant effect on DM intake while %DCP and %TDN intake was significantly (P<0.05) higher in treatment group. Digestibility coefficients of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, crude fiber, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, cellulose, and hemicellulose were where significantly (P<0.05) increased in treatment group. Nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balance were positive; however nitrogen balance was significantly (P<0.05) higher in treatment group. Addition of fenugreek seeds at 3% of DMI in treatment group does not have any adverse effects on rumen pH and rumen fermentation parameters. In conclusion raw fenugreek seeds at 3% of dry matter intake can be used as feed additives in the ration of goats for better utilization nutrients.