Effect of Partial Replacement of Non-leguminous Roughage with Leguminous Roughage on Nutrient Intake, Milk Production, Body Condition and Fecal Characteristics of Crossbred Dairy Cows

Abstract

Partial replacement of non-leguminous roughage with leguminous roughage was evaluated for its effects on nutrient intake, milk production, body condition, and faecal characteristics of crossbred dairy cows. This study evaluated the effect of partially replacing (50%) non-leguminous green roughage with leguminous green roughage on nutrient intake, milk production, body condition, and faecal characteristics of crossbred dairy cows. A total of 20 crossbred dairy cows with similar body weight, parity (2-3), and body condition were randomly and equally divided into two comparable groups for 120 days. In the control group, 20 kg Sudan Chari was provided as green fodder, along with 6 kg wheat straw and concentrate mixture at 1 kg per 3 kg of milk yield. In the treatment group, 50% of the Sudan Chari was replaced with Cowpea as green fodder, along with 6 kg wheat straw and concentrate mixture at 1 kg per 3 kg of milk yield. Data analysis revealed similar dry matter intake (P>0.05) in cows in both groups. DCP intake was higher (P<0.001) in treatment cows than in control cows. Milk yield was also significantly higher (P<0.001) in treatment cows than in control cows. Body condition was improved (P<0.05) in treatment cows compared with control cows. However, no effect (P>0.05) on faecal dry matter or faecal consistency was observed between the groups. Therefore, 50% replacement of Sudan Chari with Cowpea as leguminous green fodder, together with recommended feeding practices, improved DCP intake, milk yield, and body condition without negatively affecting dry matter intake or faecal characteristics of crossbred dairy cows.