Vol. 8, Issue 5, Part E (2023)

Author(s): MA Ouma, JO Ondiek and PK Migwi

Abstract: The high tannin content in Prosopis juliflora leaves and pods (LP) has hindered its efficient usage as a leguminous tree forage despite its high nutritive value. Goats are capable of using it but in a limited quantity despite being capable of meeting their nutritional requirements. An experiment was conducted to determine the impact of natural binders on intake, milk production, composition, and mineral content of dairy goats when used to treat P. juliflora LP. Twelve lactating dairy goats of the Toggenburg breed and their crosses weighing 35±2 kg were used in the experiment. They were placed in four treatments in a randomized completely block design (RCBD) with the breed being the blocking factor. They were housed individually with three goats in each treatment. A digestibility trial was initially conducted to decide on the ratio of P. juliflora (LP) that was more digestible for the goats. Feed leftovers were collected every morning to determine intake, and were also milked in the morning and evening to determine milk production. At the end of the experiment, milk samples from every treatment were analyzed to determine milk composition and mineral content. The results showed that treatment not only improved intake but also milk production, composition, and mineral content.