Feeding calves with hydrosoluble soybean extract. I. Performance and digestibility

Abstract

The aim of this investigation was to study the total replacement of powder milk protein (SL) for hydrosoluble soybean extract (EHS) in feeding 5-day-old Holstein male calves. The experiment was carried out using 3 treatment throughout the period of milk intake (5 to 90 days of life). In treatment I, SL was supplied from the 5th to 90th day of life. In treatment II, SL was supplied until the 29^th day, and, from the 30th to 90th day, EHS was supplied. In treatment III, EHS was supplied from the 5th day of life. After this period the calves were weaned and received the same hay and concentrate feed as in the milk intake period, up to 180 days. During the milk intake period, the animals of treatment II, showed in average lower food intake, decreased daily weight gain and poorer digestibility of nutrients than animals from treatment I (P<0.05). In the post-weaning period food intake and average daily gain were similar. Calves of treatment III lost weight throughout the experiment, showed very weak body condition and were sacrified.