Effect of Feeding Soybean Hay on Growth Performance, Feed Intake and Nutrient Utilization of Yearling Local Sheep

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of soybean hay supplementation on growth performance, feed intake, and nutrient utilization in local sheep fed grass hay as a basal diet. Twenty-five yearling intact male local sheep were assigned to five dietary treatments in a completely randomized block design: 100% concentrate (+ve control; T1), 75% concentrate + 25% soybean hay (T2), 50% concentrate + 50% soybean hay (T3), 25% concentrate + 75% soybean hay (T4), and 100% soybean hay (T5). The study lasted 90 days, followed by a 7 day digestibility trial. Dry matter intake did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among treatments, with values ranging from 939.06 to 1,049.19 g/day. Organic matter intake was significantly higher (P<0.05) in T1, T2, T3, and T4 compared to T5. Soybean hay inclusion exceeding 50% resulted in significantly greater ash intake (P<0.001). Crude protein (CP) intake was highest in T1 (84.82–109.56 g/day; P<0.01), while T1, T3, and T4 exhibited higher digestible CP and metabolic body weight (P<0.05) than T2 and T5. Apparent CP digestibility was significantly higher (P<0.01) in T1 and T3 compared to T2, T4, and T5. Final body weight and average daily gain were significantly higher (P<0.05) in T1, T3, and T4 compared to T2 and T5. T1, T2, T3, and T4 also showed significantly greater total body weight gain and feed conversion efficiency than T5 (P<0.05). Economic analysis revealed marginal rates of return of 1.21 for T3 and 1.51 for T4, both exceeding the minimum acceptable rate for farmers. Considering both growth performance and economic feasibility, T1 (100% concentrate) and T4 (25% concentrate + 75% soybean hay) are recommended as viable supplementation strategies to enhance sheep productivity.