The method of increasing the resistance of young cattle

Abstract

In the conditions of the Magadan region researches on the use of a feed additive based on seaweeds (Laminaria Bullatelancet-likelargekelp, fucus Fucusevanescens C. Agardh) in combination with lichens (Cladonia alpestris and Cetraria islandica) in the diets of young cattle of mixed cattle were conducted. Experimental and control groups of 15-17-month-old young animals were matched by the pairwise method. The groups included first-generation crossbred Hereford and Aberdeen Angus steers. Young animals of the experimental group received daily feed supplement in addition to the basic diet: kelp in an amount of 120 g/head with lichens 50 g/head/day. The stimulating effect of the supplement on the body is due to the content of a wide range of biologically active substances that are a factor in the growth and development of farm animals and have a positive effect on their immune system. Inclusion of the feed additive into the diets increased the absolute weight gain of the experimental bulls by 5,62 kg, the relative gain by 12,53%, and the average daily gain by 93,8 g (12,55%) as compared to the control bulls (p ≤ 0,001). The relative growth rate according to S. Brody was 1.31% higher in experimental young animals from birth to 17 months of age compared to the control. The use of the feed additive improved the physiological condition and resistance of the young animals of the experimental group. The content of erythrocytes in their blood increased by 0.32 million/μL (5.18%), hemoglobin by 1.1 g/dL (11.48%), and calcium by 0.06 mmol/L (2.37%).