Improving feed efficiency in Kazakh white-headed cattle: The role of residual feed intake, growth, and dry matter intake

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of residual feed intake on key technological parameters involved in the rearing of Kazakh white-headed cattle. The experimental research was carried out at four large-scale breeding enterprises raising this breed: the limited liability partnership “Zhana Bereke” (Akmola Region), the limited liability partnership “Galitskoe” (Pavlodar Region), the communal farm “Sabit” (West Kazakhstan Region), and the limited liability partnership “Shalabai” (Abai Region). Data collection and continuous monitoring were implemented using the automated livestock monitoring system known as Vytelle-sense technology. Following a two-week adaptation period, 64 steers of the Kazakh white-headed breed were selected at each enterprise. Over the course of 60 days, measurements were taken for residual feed intake, average daily weight gain, and daily dry matter consumption. Results showed that, across all four enterprises, approximately half of the animals exhibited negative residual feed intake values. The mean average daily weight gain was 0.95 kilograms, while the mean daily intake of dry matter per steer was 11.03 kilograms. A positive correlation was observed between residual feed intake and average daily weight gain, whereas no significant correlation was found with dry matter consumption. Bulls demonstrating negative residual feed intake values along with high feed consumption are recommended for selection in breeding programmes due to the potential for genetically favourable traits. Additionally, the recorded average daily weight gain ranged from 0.1 to 1.81 kilograms, with dry matter intake ranging from 7.82 to 13.91 kilograms per day