Balancing the diets of replacement heifers with specialized feed supplements

Abstract

The research findings on nutrition effectiveness of Black-Pied Holsteinized replacement heifers on the farm of the OOO Borisoglebskoye in the Vladimir Region are discussed. The research goal was to evaluate the existing feeding technology, analyze diets, and develop scientifically based optimized diets using specialized feed supplements. The study included laboratory testing of the feed chemical composition, evaluation of animal growth dynamics and a detailed check of the balance of age-specific diets regarding detailed feeding standards. It was found that while the target live weight (397 kg) was achieved by 16 months, the heifer growth showed both intensive periods and slowdowns. Significant imbalances in the nutritional value of actual diets were identified especially in animals over 12 months of age: metabolic energy deficiency and deficiencies of sugar (-66.7%), crude fat (-28.2%), calcium (-29.1%), phosphorus (-55.7%), zinc (-48.1%), and manganese (-60.6%) with a simultaneous excess of crude protein (+13.9%). To correct the imbalanced diets, the use of a complex of specialized feed supplements was proposed: Calcium Melli, Premix Kiima Melli, and VitaMelli. Based on the analysis, optimized diets for age groups of 9-12 months and over 12 months, completely balanced regarding the key nutrients were developed. An economic calculation showed an 11% increase in the cost of a daily diet; however, this investment was justified as it was aimed at preventing metabolic disorders, improving reproductive performance, and enhancing the future productivity of the animals.