Effect of Free Choice Salt and Mineral Licks Supplementation on Milk Production and Blood Biochemical Parameters in Crossbred Cows

The present study was conducted to determine the effect of free choice salt and mineral licks on dry matter intake, milk yield, milk composition, blood biochemical parameters and micromineral profile in crossbred cows. Twenty four lactating Holstein Friesian crossbred cows were randomly distributed in 3 groups of 8 animals each based on milk yield. The cows in control group were fed basal ration to meet their nutrient requirements while tradition universal multi blocks and tradition fertility blocks/licks provided by Akzo Nobel were supplemented free choice in multi and fertility groups, respectively in addition to basal diet. The duration of the study was 120 days. The mean dry matter (DM) intake was similar in all the groups. The free choice multi and fertility licks increased the milk yield by 2 kg per cow per day as compared to control group where as multi lick also improved the milk fat and protein content. The control group had a lower persistency of milk yield during the experimental period as compared to multi and fertility groups. Supplementation of free choice multi and fertility licks did not affect levels of blood biochemical profile and monitored plasma micromineral content of crossbred cows.