EFFECT OF LYSINE AND SODIUM BUTYRATE SUPPLEMENTATION ON METABOLIC PROFILE AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BUFFALO CALVES

The present study was designed to support the calf growth during winter season with supplementation of crude protein, lysine (the essential amino acid) and sodium butyrate (acidifier) in the calf starter. 15 apparently healthy and infection free buffalo calves above 2 weeks of age were randomly divided into three groups: Group 1: calves were fed calf starter (20% CP), Group 2: calves were fed calf starter (20% CP) + lysine 100 g/100 kg calf starter, Group 3: calves were fed calf starter (20% CP) + lysine 100 g/100 kg calf starter + sodium butyrate -0.3%. Lysine and sodium butyrate were supplemented for 2 months. Group 3 calves (supplemented with lysine and sodium butyrate) exhibited significantly higher body weight value, withers height, length and heart girth as compared to Group 1 calves (Control). The data revealed no significant (P<0.05) effect of sodium butyrate and lysine on Hb, PCV, Liver function tests (Bilirubin, AST, ALT, ALKP, GGT) and Kidney function tests (BUN, Creatinine), total protein, glucose, sodium, chloride, potassium, plasma osmolality and total immunoglobulins.