Journal of Animal Science · 1971 · 13 citations · 0 references
AgricultureAnimal SciencesVeterinary PhysiologyLivestock ProductionRuminant MedicineRuminant NutritionDry Matter IntakePasture NutritionRumen FermentationRumen NutritionSheep NutritionSmall Ruminant NutritionEarly Rumen DevelopmentFeedingRumen DigestibilityRumen Energy MetabolismRumen Fermentation DevelopmentRumen MetabolomicsRumen Microbial Adaptation To FeedRumen Nitrogen Metabolism
Fifty-six Hampshire-sired crossbred lambs were used in two trials to study ammonia and VFA concentrations in the rumen at different ages under different feeding conditions. Providing a creep from birth stimulated VFA concentrations in the rumen to levels above those found when no creep was provided as early as 6 days of age. The effect of dry feed consumption on rumen ammonia and VFA production following weaning at 28 days was apparent within 7 to 14 days post-weaning. Consumption of pasture was stimulatory to rumen development but less so than creep feed provided in confinement.