Effect of intermittent watering on dry matter intake and body weight of male Ethiopian Somali goats

Abstract

Twenty-six male Ethiopian Somali goats were used. Access to water every 48, 72 or 96 h reduced (P<0.001) the mean water intake (ml/kg W and ml/kg W-0.75) and the water to feed ratio (ml/g DMI) compared to every 24 h with no difference between the 48 and 72 h. Dry matter intakes (g/kg W and g/kg W-0.75) were reduced only at 96 h (P<0.01). Final body weight and daily gain were not affected by the watering regimes. We conclude that this goat breed tolerate prolonged periods of dehydration and can be watered once every three days.

Keywords

goat; male; water intake; dehydration

Published in

Journal of Animal and Feed Sciences
2004, volume: 13, pages: 647-650
Publisher: KIELANOWSKI INST ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY NUTRITION

Conference

X Int Symp Ruminant Physiol

SLU Authors

• Olsson, Kerstin

  • Department of Animal Biosciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

• Dahlborn, Kristina

  • Department of Animal Biosciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

UKÄ Subject classification

Animal and Dairy Science
Veterinary Science

Publication identifier

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22358/jafs/74081/2004

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/3003