Effect of Mineral Supplimentation on Growth, Rention Percentage and Serum Mineral Profile of Calves

Bioavailability trial on mineral balance was conducted in two groups of nondescriptive calves. Restricted amount of concentrate ration with and without mineral mixture at 2% level was fed to group-I and group-II respectively. Para (Panicum Purpuream) grass was provided ad libitum as a source of green. The weight of the animals was recorded at two different periods – on the day of precondition and at the end of the trial.The dry matter (DM) intake, voidance of dung and urine was recorded and samples of concentrate, green, dung and urine were collected daily for analysis. The samples were processed and different elements viz. Ca, P, Mg, Fe, Cu and Zn were analyzed in concentrate, fodder, dung and urine to know the percentage of retention. Blood samples were also collected from each animal on the day of actual trial and at the end of the trial for analysis of mineral concentration. No significant difference was observed between the two groups in respect of DM intake and growth. However, significantly (P<0.05) higher retention percentage was recorded in mineral mixture supplemented group. Blood mineral profile was also observed apparently high in mineral mixture supplemented group.