EFFECTS OF PREBIOTIC INCLUSION IN THE DIET OF WEANED CALVES

Abstract

By using prebiotic supplements in domestic animals many positive effects were observed considering the regulation of the microbiological balance in the digestive system, as well as the facilitated growth and the food conversion , even the positive effect on immunological system. The digestion system in the calf makes proper basis for the development of the microorganisms , where the excessive increase of potentially pathogenic microorganisms very often may occur. Therefore, the possibility of adding prebiotics mannan-oligosaccharides into the milk for calf nutrition is considered to be significant for investigation. The primary aim is to prevent gastro intestinal disorders, as well as to stimulate the growth, and at the same time acceptable from the point of health protection of people and with no negative, damaging effects on the environment, hence, it would be an alternative to the usual regime of solving such problems with antibiotics. The experiment was carried out at the dairy farm Zlatibor (Serbia) with Simmental calves. Two groups of calves were formed control and experimental. The ration of experimental calves was supplemented with 4 g of prebiotics mannan-oligosaccharides per day, named Bio-Mos. The results of the experiments demonstrated that prebiotic preparations in the ration for 1-3 month age calves facilitate growth, improve digestibility of the ration nutrients and positively effect immunological status of the animals.