The Effect of Fiber -Protein Levels on Milk Parameters, Linear Body Measurements and Udder Dimensions of West African Dwarf Sheep at First Lambing

Abstract

A study on the effect of dietary fiber -protein levels on milk parameters and performance of West African Dwarf ewes and their lambs at first lambing was investigated for twelve weeks. The experimental diet includes control (CTRL), low fiber high protein (LFHP), and high fiber low protein (HFLP). Diet significantly (p 0.05) influenced total solids and protein content. The LFHP diet was the most consumed (P<0.05) compared to other diets and it induced higher percentage of milk offtake, fat and protein content. Lactating ewes on LFHP were significantly superior in weight, body parameters and udder dimensions except wither height and teat length that had significantly higher values in HFLP and CTRL diet respectively. Lambs on LFHP diet were significantly superior in weight and body parameters. No significant difference was detected among diets for heart girth and udder width in lactating ewes and for body length and neck circumference in their lambs. The fat/protein ratio of LFHP and CRTL diets indicated sufficient supply of energy and fiber as compared to diet on HFLP. Feed cost was highest in control diet but lowest for high fiber -low protein diet. Since dietary low fiber high protein improved the milk and body parameters, low fiber high protein (LFHP) diet should be formulated for lactating ewes to enhance the performance of WAD and their lambs at first lambing.