To study effect of supplementing protected nutrients on productive and reproductive performance, eighteen Murrah buffaloes were divided into control (C) and treatment (S) groups (nine each) on the basis of most probable production ability (MPPA). Buffaloes in group C (MPPA 2204.17 kg) were fed wheat straw, green maize fodder and concentrate mixture as per requirements. Buffaloes in group S (MPPA 2210.64 kg) were fed same ration as group C plus 2.5% rumen protected fat (DM intake basis) and formaldehyde treated mustard and groundnut oil cake (1.2 g HCHO/100 g CP). Group S buffaloes were supplemented protected nutrients 60 days pre partum to 90 days postpartum and carry over effect of supplementation on milk production and reproductive parameters was monitored up to 210 days of lactation. Average birth weights of the calves were higher by 10.8% in supplemented group (31.94 vs. 35.38 kg). Time required for expulsion of fetal membranes was significantly (p<0.01) reduced in supplemented group. Less number of cases of retention of fetal membranes and metritis were observed in group S buffaloes. Milk yield (210 days) was higher (p<0.01) by 16.84% in group S than that of group C (10.21 vs. 11.93 kg/d). Similar trend was recorded in 6% fat corrected milk yield in both the groups. The time required for onset of cyclicity, service period and artificial insemination per conception was reduced in supplemented group. In conclusion, strategic feeding of protected nutrients during early lactation improved milk production and reproductive performance in lactating buffaloes.
Milk Yield, Reproductive Performance, Protected Fat, Protected Protein, Buffalo
