Effect of Different Feeding Systems on Growth Performance of Rohilkhandi Goat Kids

Abstract

The present study was conducted to see the effect of different feeding systems on the performance of kids. A total 21 local goat kids of Rohilkhand region weighing around 7–11 kg and ageing 4–5 months were selected and randomly made in to 3 groups. Group-I (Gr-I) was fed un-chopped green fodder in circular feeder (newly designed). Group-II (Gr-II) was fed un-chopped green fodder in linear feeder, similar to the existing farm practice. Group-III (Gr-III) was fed chopped green fodder in linear feeder (modified version). Amount of concentrate and dry fodder fed was kept constant. Adlibitum green fodder was fed and at the end left over was recorded. The ADG of kids in Gr I, Gr II and Gr III were 33g, 33g and 40 g respectively. Gr III had consumed significantly (P<0.05) higher than Gr-I and Gr-II at every fortnight both on fresh and dry matter basis. The green fodder wastage was significantly (P<0.05) higher for Gr I and lowest in Gr-III. The overall FCR was 1: 9.46, 1: 8.93 and 1: 9.37 in Gr-I, Gr-II & Gr-III respectively. The total time required for feeding and cleaning of the pens was significantly higher in Gr I than Gr II and Gr III. It can be concluded that provision of un-chopped fodder in circular feeder did not give any advantage over linear feeding trough. Further chopped fodder did not help in body weight gain but helped in reducing the feed wastage.