Assessment of Cassava Peel/Palm Kernel Cake Meal (PKM) on Growth Performance and Blood Parameters of Lactating Sows (Agricultural Extension Implication)

Abstract

A four weeks study was carried out to assess the effect of cassava peel/palm kernel cake meal on the growcharacteristics of lactating sows, piglets and blood parameters. Forty large white lactating sows with average weig(72-78kg) and piglets mean weight range from 27 to 35kg were randomly distributed to the five treatments in completely randomized design (CRD). The combination was attained on one to one weight basis. The combinat ioreplaced maize at 0 (control), 10, 20, 30 and 40%. Feed/water were made readily available. The results on performancharacteristics, hematological parameters and serum biochemical parameters fed difference inclusion of cassapeel/PKC meal were significantly (P<0.05) influenced. Performance of lactating sows recorded a higher weight lo30% (18.13kg) and piglet mortality 40% (14.81%), while piglet average weekly weight gained (7.5kg) and weaned (3was better in 10%. However, this study recommended 10% level of cassava peel/pkc meal in lactating sow feed.