Use of the feed additive Optimus in feeding of cows of Black-and-White breed

Abstract

An important limiting factor in intensive milk and beef production systems is protein. The lack of protein feed provokes the need to use modern and new protein sources. Modern approaches to the system of standardized feeding of ruminant animals help to improve the quality of protein in rations, which is assessed by the ratio of its degradable and non-degradable parts. In this regard, innovative feed additives such as Optimus to stimulate microbial protein synthesis and a source of non-degradable protein are of particular interest. The purpose of the research was to study the effect of Optimus feed additive on the productive traits of highly productive Holstein cows under the conditions of industrial milk production technology. In order to conduct the study, 3 groups (control and two experimental) of Holstei highly productive first-calf heifers were formed on the principle of pair-analogs taking into account age, live weight, lactation period, and productivity. In the ration of the cows of the 1st experimental group 500 g/head/day of Optimus additive was added instead of 500 g of KK-60-1 compound feed, in the 2nd experimental group 1 kg/head/day was added instead of 1 kg of KK-60-1 compound feed. Thus, the diff erence in milk yield between cows of the 1st and 2nd experimental groups compared to the control group was 87,3 and 148,0 kg, respectively. Milk production coefficients in the 1st and 2nd experimental groups were also higher than the control group by 15,0 (p < 0,05) and 30 kg (p < 0,01). Thus, the use of the feed additive Optimus in doses of 500 g/head/day and 1 kg/head/day instead of compound feed KK-60–1 in feeding of Holsteinized first-calf heifers during the period of increasing the milk yield under the conditions of industrial milk production technology showed positive results. A more optimal dosage should be 1 kg/head/day.