DefinePK

Abstract

Rearing new born calf is extremely challenging and requires much patience and commitment. Dairy farmers must find economical and effective method for their calves to attain early puberty, optimal weight gain and make it more valuable. Present study was conducted at Livestock Research and Development Station Surezai, Peshawar. A total of 12 Achai-Jersy cross calves were divided into three groups to investigate the effect of milk replacer, whole milk and mixed milk (milk replacer and whole milk). Group-1 received milk replacer, Group-2 received whole milk while group-3 received mixed milk. Data was recorded on weekly basis. Initial live weights of all calves were recorded before starting the trial. Data revealed significant (P< 0.05) weight gain in the observed groups. Group-2 shows highest mean (220.43%) weight gain. While the group-1 shows lowest percent weight increase during the period of three months trial. Per week weight gain in group-2, the highest value of calf weight gain of 3.96 kg was recorded in 1st week of trial, while the lowest mean value of weight gain of 2.38 kg was observed at the 11th week of the trial. In Group-1, highest mean value of weight gain per week of 2.95 kg in the 2nd week of the trial while the lowest value (1.88 kg) was observed at 11th week. Economically it was proved that milk replacer was significantly low cost diet (PKR 97/litre) as compare to whole milk (PKR 170/litre) and mixed milk (PKR 133/litre). It is concluded that milk replacer has produced almost the same effect on calf weight gain with less cost as compare to other diets.
Keywords: Achai-Jersy cross; Calves; Milk replacer; Mixed milk; Weight gain; Whole milk
http://dx.doi.org/10.19045/bspab.2025.140075