Comparative evaluation of feed intake and blood metabolites in goats fed different vetch varieties

One way to evaluate the value of a feed is by comparing the actual intake based on its nutritional value. Annual legumes are considered significant protein supplements to ruminants. The objective of this study was to assess the feed intake, and blood parameters of goats offered different vetch varieties. Each of the five male Boer goats was provided with four feeding troughs, containing four different feeds (<i>Cenchrus ciliaris</i> grass hay) and three legumes (<i>Vicia sativa</i> - Common vetch, Volga vetch, and <i>Vicia villosa</i> Roth - Haymaker plus vetch). Vetch varieties were also analysed for chemical composition. The feeds were used as treatments, with goats as replicates in a completely randomised design (CRD). For blood metabolites, blood samples were collected from each of the five male Boer goats at the commencement and the end of the experiment. Haymaker plus vetch had the highest (<i>P</i> < 0.05) CP, K, Cu, Zn, Mn, total phenols and condensed tannins with the lowest (<i>P</i> < 0.05) ADL. Common and Volga vetch exhibited the highest (<i>P</i> < 0.05) intake. Cholesterol, lymphocytes, neutrophils, globulin, and phosphorus levels were higher (<i>P</i> < 0.05) in goats exposed to vetch varieties. Given the high crude protein observed in all vetch varieties, these forages may serve as a protein supplement for low roughage grasses, potentially enhancing the productivity of these ruminants. Due to lower intake observed on the tanniferous Haymaker plus vetch, an amelioration strategy can be introduced to enhance its feeding value. Further metabolic experiments can be conducted to determine the optimal inclusion level of vetch forages.