Growth and Nutrient Utilization in Stall-Fed West African Dwarf Sheep Under Varying Feed Times

Abstract

The productive efficiency of feed in ruminants depends not only on its quality and quantity but also on the timing of delivery. This study evaluated the effect of different feed delivery times on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen metabolism of West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep. Fifteen WAD sheep (initial weight: 8.26–9.29 kg) were randomly assigned to three feeding time treatments (T1, T2, T3), with five animals per group. Over a 63-day trial, weekly feed intake, body weight gain, and feed efficiency were monitored. Three animals per treatment were later selected for digestibility and nitrogen balance studies. Results showed that overall weight gain and daily weight gain were significantly higher (P<0.05) in T1 (4.92 kg, 78.06 g/day) and T3 (4.95 kg, 78.51 g/day) compared to T2 (2.34 kg, 37.21 g/day). Although total supplemental, grass, and feed intake were higher (P<0.05) in T2 and T3 than in T1, feed conversion ratio was significantly better in T1 and T3 (5.60) compared to T2 (11.73). Dry matter digestibility was significantly improved (P<0.05) in T1 and T3, while other nutrient digestibility parameters and nitrogen balance did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among treatments. It was concluded that feeding Panicum maximum and supplements in the evening enhanced feed intake, weight gain, and nutrient digestibility in WAD sheep.