Development of Calf Feeding Rations Based on Tmr Technology and Assessment of Nutrient Supply (Using the Uzmu-25 Probiotic Preparation)

This article presents the results of developing feeding rations and assessing nutrient supply for local bulls and female calves of local origin and crossbreeds with Holstein cattle raised under household conditions in Furqat District, Fergana Region, using both traditional and Total Mixed Ration (TMR) feeding technologies. Rations developed for four experimental groups (I–IV) at 6, 9, 12, 15, and 18 months of age were analyzed. In addition, the age- and live-weight-based doses of the UzMU-25 probiotic feed additive newly introduced into the TMR rations, as well as the rationale for its use, were described. The calculations showed that although the traditional rations generally provided satisfactory levels of energy and protein, significant deficiencies were observed in sugar, starch, and crude fat, amounting to 190–250 g, 679–920 g, and 17–68 g, respectively. In the TMR rations, the differences between nutrient requirements and actual supply for almost all parameters were within 0.05–17 units, which can be considered physiologically insignificant. The UzMU-25 preparation was incorporated into the rations at a rate of 0.02 g/kg live body weight per day, corresponding to 3–7 g/head/day for male calves and 3–7.5 g/head/day for female calves. The preparation was thoroughly mixed into the ration with the aim of supporting intestinal microflora and improving nutrient digestibility. The results demonstrate the advantages of TMR technology, particularly when supplemented with the UzMU-25 probiotic, over traditional feeding in terms of nutrient balance and ration uniformity.‎