Effect of dietary protein degradability and fat on rumen, blood and milk components of Jersey and Holstein cows

Abstract

Twenty-four cows in a production trial and 8 cows fitted with ruminal and duodenal cannulas were used in 4 x 4 Latin squares to investigate the effects of dietary protein degradability and supplemental fat on rumen, blood, and milk components. Diet dry matter contained 16% CP with two levels of rumen undegradable protein (RUP) obtained by substituting blood meal for soybean meal. Treatments were 29% RUP, 0% added fat; 29% RUP, 2.7% added fat (Calcium soaps of fatty acids); 41% RUP, 0% added fat; and 41% RUP, 2.7% added fat. Dry matter intake was depressed 6.2% by added fat. Plasma urea N (PUN) increased with added fat and 41% RUP, however greater changes were observed due to time of feeding. Milk production increased 7.1% in both breeds and 4% fat corrected milk increased by 8.4% in Jerseys fed added fat. Milk protein yield decreased in Holsteins fed 41% RUP. Milk protein content was reduced 7.1% by added fat and 3.9% by 41% RUP, and milk urea N (g/100g N) was increased by added fat and 41% RUP. Milk urea N followed PUN pattern throughout the day. Added fat reduced content, but not yield, of milk components. Blood meal substitution decreased content and yield of milk protein and casein N.