Relation of Nutrition to Growth and Breeding Performance in Dairy Bulls. I. Alfalfa Hay Rations

Open Access
Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Four bulls, 2 each purebred Jersey and Holstein, fed a basal ration of alfalfa hay containing between 14 and 15% crude protein, disodium phosphate, salt, and KI soln. after 5 to 7 months of age and until disposal at 32 to 41 months of age grew at a rate 10-15% below normal until about 2 ; yrs. of age. Semen samples showed more desirable charac- teristics after 18 months of age than before. All bulls proved fertile on service at from 24 to 40 months of age. 2 bulls,. 1 each purebred Jersey and Holstein, fed the basal ration plus a daily supplement of 1 lb. each of skimmilk powder and oat groats after 7 months of age grew at a normal rate. They produced semen with more desirable characteristics, especially up to 18 months of age, as compared with the bulls fed the basal ration. The bulls proved fertile on service. It is believed that the faster growth, earlier maturity and better condition of the bulls fed the supplement was due to the greater energy intake rather than to the increased amt. or any improvement in quality of protein.