Manipulation of Diet Intake and Milk Production of Red Sindhi Cows by Varying the Water and Feeding Frequencies

Abstract

Background: Current research was carried out at Red Sindhi farm, Tando Muhammad Khan, during the year 2018, in order to manipulate the diet intake and milk production of Red Sindhi cows by varying the water and feeding frequencies.Methods: A total of 300 Red Sindhi cows under 3rd lactation were selected and were divided into 5 groups. Cows in group A (control) were offered ad-libitum feed and water, in group B; 2 time feed (Morning 6:00AM and 6:00PM) and ad-libitum water, in group C; 3 times feed (6:00AM, 2:00 Noon and 10:00PM) and ad-libitum water, in group D, ad libitum feed and 2 times water (6:00AM and 6:00PM), in group E; ad libitum feed and 3 times water (6:00AM, 2:00 Noon and 10:00PM). Result: Results of present study indicated that the daily water intake was found significantly maximum (47.00±1.45) in group B and minimum (43.33±0.88) in group D. Statistically significant difference was seen in group D compared to other groups, while no significant difference among groups A, B, C and E. Maximum daily feed intake (19.66±2.40) was recorded in group A and minimum daily feed intake (15.00±0.57) was recorded in group B. There was significant difference in daily feed intake in group E with groups A and B. However there was no significant difference in daily feed intake between groups A and B as well as groups C, D and E, correspondingly. Maximum weekly milk production (40.00±1.45 kg) was recorded in group A and minimum milk production (34.00±0.88 kg) was recorded in group B. However there was significant difference in milk production among groups A and B, while non-significant difference between groups C and D as well as A and E, correspondingly.Conclusion: In conclusion, Red Sindhi cows produced significantly higher milk under group A (control) offered 24 hours water and ad-libitum feed compared to all other groups.