Productive performance of dairy cows fed different additives

Abstract

Based on the search for the proper exploration of the productive capacity of the animal and obtain maximum profitability, required at global scenario presented in recent years, new alternatives that positively influence the best animal performance, as an example, the use of ionophores in cattle feed emerged. The ionophore monensin is that yields good results and operates mainly in the manipulation of rumen fermentation, contributing to increased animal performance. However, beyond the search for the largest animal capacity, comes in contrast with the requirements of the consumer markets, aiming to human health, creating certain rules for the use of these additives in animal feed. Thus, alternative natural compounds see being developed for this purpose, serving the needs of the domestic market and especially international. Among naturias compounds used to highlight the essential oils ( secondary compounds from various parts of plants) and chitosan (a natural biopolymer derived from chitin exoskeleton of crustaceans and insects ) . This compound has aroused interest in its use, and its use has been assessed by recent research, as preliminary results submitted have similar responses to the use of ionophores for the products resulting from the fermentation process and the population balance of bacteria and protozoa in the environment rumen. However, there are few studies in the literature that specifically evaluate and compare the use of Monessen, essential oils, and chitosan. The scientific hypothesis to be evaluated in this research project suggests that the use of essential oils (Crina Ruminants ® , DSM Nutritional Products ) or chitosan in dairy cows showed similar results to Monessen, and positively influence the growth performance , digestion and metabolism of dairy cows in early lactation. This study will be conducted to evaluate the use of various additives in feed for lactating cows and to evaluate the effect on consumption, production and milk composition.