Abstract
The influence of feeding frequency of concenisaie ration containing alkali treated wheat straw on intake and growth rate of Beetal kids was determined. Nine Rectal kids of the same age were selected and allotted at random, to three treatments Le., feeding °rm-a day (F))., twice-a-day {F2) and thrice-a-day (F3) in such a way that there were three kids under each treatment. Average weekly feed intake under Ft. F2 and F3 was 101576.15 46, 12379.02 + 51 and 128.4.9.13±89 g and the average body weight gain vas 3x9,32 ± 56, 700.00 ± HO and 684.82 ± 7 g, respective)... The carcass data showed non-significant difference among tEe three treatments. A significant (?<0,0I) difference vies, however, otserved in the feed intake and body weight gain in the three groups. Twice-a-day feeding regime was better than once-a-day or thrice-a day feeding.
INTRODUCTION
Feeding frequency influences the production of the animal by affecting rnicrnflora in tle rumen, When as animal is fed once or twice .daily, the rumen mierofl..)ra have short period for fermentation, thus causing initial fall in micro-bial activity due to diluting effect of the feed, saliva and the passage of some organisms from rumen to abornasu► (Cuthhertson, 1909).
The major fart of the feed of ruminants in Pakistan comprises of fibrous mat. erialslikewheat &paddy straw. The production of wheat & rice straw is estimated to be 11.5 and 3.4 million tonnes, respectively, in Pakistan (Anonymous, 15[86). DM to high crude fibre content, the digestibility of straw is poor, thus limiting its c011Skirription. To enhance the digestibility of poor quality rougbages, sodium hydroiide treatment has bft.conae very popular.
