Effect of Feeding Total Mixed Ration on Productive Performance and Blood Biochemical Profile in Lactating Murrah Buffaloes

In the present study, the effect of feeding total mixed ration on productive performance and blood biochemical profile in lactating Murrah buffaloes was studied. Eighteen lactating Murrah buffaloes in early to mid lactation were divided into three groups of six animals each. The animals in group T₁ were offered concentrate mixture, green maize fodder and paddy straw separately in the ratio of 40: 40: 20 while in group T₂, the animals were fed similar rations in form of TMR. In group T₃, concentrate mixture, green maize fodder and paddy straw were fed in the ratio of 40: 50: 10 as TMR. Average milk fat percentage was 8.59% higher (P<0.05) in T₂ than T₃ and 4.59% higher (P<0.05) in T₁ than T₃. Average SNF content was higher (P<0.05) in T₃ as compared to T₁ and T₂ while total solids were significantly (P<0.05) higher in group T₂ than T₁ and T₃. PUFA content was higher (P<0.05) in T₃ in comparison with T₁ and T₂. The concentration of glucose, urea nitrogen, BHBA, NEFA, total immunoglobulins and cortisol in blood was similar in all the groups. Feeding of total mixed ration to lactating buffalo's had no significant effect on feed intake and milk yield, however, there was an improvement in SNF content.