Effect of Supplementation of Sugarcane Press Mud on Haematological, Blood Biochemical Parameters and Immune Response of Crossbred Calves

Abstract

Background: Sugarcane press mud (SPM) is one such agro-industrial by-product sufficiently available in sugar factories which contains more protein and soluble calcium. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of supplementation of sugarcane press mud on haematological, blood biochemical and immune response of crossbred calves. Methods: A total of 18 male crossbred calves (68.51±4.40 kg body weight) were divided into 3 groups of each based on complete randomized design. Calves of T1, T2 and T3 groups were fed concentrate mixture with wheat bran, concentrate mixture with 20% SPM replacing wheat bran and concentrate mixture without 20% SPM/wheat bran, respectively. The experiment was conducted for 150 days. Blood was collected from each calf on 0, 75 and 150 days of experimental periods. Result: Concentration of Hb, PCV, WBC and RBC were non-significant in different groups. Non-significant difference was also observed in serum biochemical and enzyme profile of crossbred calves. Humoral immune response was significantly (P less than 0.05) higher in T2 and T3 groups. Study concluded that supplementation of sugarcane press mud (20%) improved humoral immune response without affecting the haematological and biochemical profile in crossbred calves.