Authors : Balgees A. Atta Elmnan, Nuha M. Jame, S.A. Rahmatalla, E.O. Amasiab and A.G. Mahala
Abstract: A total of twelve mature nubian does were used in a complete randomize design to assess the effect of supplementing a basal diet with different levels of fenugreek seeds 0% (FS0%), 5% ( FS5%), 10% (FS10%) AND 15% (FS15%) on feed intake, some metabolic hormones, milk yield and composition. The diet fed immediately postpartum for 2 consecutive months. Data pertains to feed intake (g/day) and milk yield (L/day) were recorded daily. Milk and blood samples for determination of chemical composition and serum concentration of Insulin, Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) were taken every 2 weeks, respectively. The results revealed that both daily feed intake and milk yield increased significantly (p<0.05) with the increased levels of fenugreek seed supplement with concomitant decrease in milk fat content while the other milk components (protein, lactose and SNF) showed an inconsistent pattern. On the other hand fenugreek seed supplementation at the 10 and 15% levels increased significantly (p<0.05) the concentration of insulin (11.32 and 13.66 mL U/L), T4 (86.00 and 92.27 mL U/L), respectively and a decreased in T3 concentration (1.33 and 1.12 mL U/L). The results highlighted that fenugreek seed supplementation boosted feed intake, milk yield, insulin and thyroxin.
Balgees A. Atta Elmnan, Nuha M. Jame, S.A. Rahmatalla, E.O. Amasiab and A.G. Mahala, 2013. Effect of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgraecum) Seeds Supplementaion on Feed Intake, Some Metabolic Hormones Profile, Milk Yield and Composition of Nubian Goats. Research Journal of Animal Sciences, 7: 1-5.