English

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the effect of betaine supplementation on production performance and blood biochemical parameters in calves. Sixty Nili-Ravi calves were randomly divided into four groups: the control group, which received a total mixed ration (TMR) without betaine and three experimental groups that received TMR blended with 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6% betaine for 8 weeks. Feed and water intake was recorded daily and production performance parameters were recorded on weekly basis. Blood samples were collected weekly and at the end of the experiment. The results showed that feeding betaine to calves increased dry matter intake, body weight gain and average daily gain (P < 0.001). Dietary addition of 0.6% betaine improved feed conversion ratio (P < 0.01). Plasma cortisol, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde levels were positively affected (P < 0.05) by betaine supplementation as compared to the control group; however, it caused HSP70 levels to decrease (P < 0.05). The results indicated that supplementing betaine to the diet of Nili-Ravi calves enhanced growth performance and improved their antioxidant status. © 2021 Friends Science Publishers