Biological full value of feed for carnivores: modern approaches to assessment

Abstract

The modern approaches to assessing the biological completeness of feeds for carnivorous animals which is a key factor in ensuring the health, productivity and longevity of individuals especially under the conditions of commercial management, sports and service activities are discussed. Conventional assessment methods (determination of gross energy, crude protein, fat, fiber, nitrogen-free extractives, in vivo digestibility, nitrogen balance) and modern additions to them are analyzed including amino acid score (with an emphasis on limiting essential amino acids), assessment of the intestinal microbiome (qualitative and quantitative composition), biochemical and hematological markers of metabolism. Special attention is paid to the role of functional additives (prebiotics, probiotics, mycotoxin binders, chondroprotectors, antioxidants) in increasing the biological value of diets by improving nutrient digestibility and modulating immunity. Through the example of experimental data on the use of the complex additive "Bio-Fiziol", the effectiveness of an integrated approach to assessing the completeness of feeding is shown. It was found that inclusion of the additive in the diet of service dogs increased protein digestibility by 5–6%, increased the level of total protein in blood serum by 7–9% and normalized calcium-phosphorus metabolism in puppies. A scheme for comprehensive assessment of the biological completeness of feeds is proposed including physicochemical, physiological and metabolic criteria; this makes it possible to objectify the conclusion about feed quality and the validity of including functional components. Additionally, the necessity of unifying assessment methods in veterinary practice and feed production is substantiated which will makes it possible to compare the results of different studies and standardize requirements for feeds for fur-bearing animals, service and sports dogs. It is shown that an integral assessment of biological completeness reduces the risks of nutritional deficiency, metabolic disorders and diseases of the musculoskeletal system especially in growing and actively working animals. It is economically substantiated that the use of complex additives reduces the cost of veterinary support by 15–20% by reducing morbidity and increasing feed digestibility.