Effect of Feeding Complete Rations on Growth and Nutrient Utilization in Crossbred Calves

A growth trial was carried out for 180 d on 24 cross-bred (Ongole x Holstein) male calves randomly allotted to three groups fed on conventional ration consisting of 1,7 kg concentrate mixture and ad libitum urea-molasscs enriched wheat straw (RO, complete feed (mash) with 50 per cent wheat straw (R₂) and complete feed (mash) with 35 per cent wheat straw and 15 per cent bcrseem hay (R₃). The growth rate and feed : gain ratio were significantly higher (P < 0.05) and feed cost per kg live weight gain was considerably lower in animals fed R_a than R_x. Digestibilities of DM, OM, CP, EE and NFE were significantly higher (P < 0.01) while CF was lower on R₂ and R₃ than on R₁. Significantly higher (P < 0.01) N, Ca and P balances were noticed in animals fed complete feeds. The DCP content and intakes were lower on conventional ration than the complete diets, however, nutrient intakes were higher than the recommended levels on complete feeds and met the requirements.