Effect of carnitine supplementation on growth performance and economics in pigs fed high fat diet

Abstract

Thirty two weaned piglets were randomly divided into three groups allotted to the three dietary treatments, T1-control ration, T2-control ration plus 5 per cent fat and T3-T2 plus 150 mg/kg carnitine. The total dry matter intake, fortnightly body weight of each individual animal and economics were recorded. There was a significant improvement (P<0.01; and 0.05) observed for pigs under supplemented group (T2 and T3) than that of control group (T1) with regards to all growth parameters studied during growing phase than finisher phase and overall period. The cost of feed per kg weight gain during the overall period was found to be comparable among treatments (T1, T2, and T3). It may be concluded that primary response of pigs to dietary supplements were more during growing stage than finisher and inclusion of 5 % fat would be beneficial for improving growth in weaned LWY piglets.