Utilization of goat milk vs. milk replacer for granadina goat kids

Abstract

Nutritional responses of Granadina goats fed goat milk or milk replacer were studied. Digestibility of nutrients, metabolizable energy, animal growth and performance were analyzed. In a factorial design, two sources of milk (goat milk and milk replacer), were fed at three levels (1.24, 1.86 and 2.48 times the energy required for maintenance) and two animal ages (15 and 30 days). The patterns of abomasal emptying and abomasal flow composition were determined also in goat kids fed goat milk or milk replacer ad libitum. Nutrient digestibilities and metabolizable energy were greater in goats on goat milk than on milk replacer, and in goats 30 days of age than 15 days of age. Animal growth was similar in goats fed goat milk or milk replacer. Performance indicated greater fattening in goats fed goat milk than milk replacer, and in goats 30 days of age than 15 days of age. Protein and fat left the milk-fed abomasum more regularly at a slower rate of emptying than when kids were fed milk replacer. The pattern of abomasal emptying in goat kids was similar to other pre-ruminant animals. In conclusion, experimental animals made suitable use of milk replacer. Greatest differences were observed against goat milk feeding for ash digestibility and fat deposition.