Effects of Moringa oleifera leaf meal supplementation on growth performance and blood profiles of cattle heifers

Abstract

To evaluate the impact of dietary inclusion of Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) on the growth performance, body conformation, and blood biochemistry of intensively managed cattle heifers, a total of 12 heifers were randomly selected and divided into two groups viz. group-CON (basal diet) and group-MOLM (basal diet + 10% Moringa oleifera leaf meal). Results indicate that significantly higher feed intake was observed in the MOLM group. The heifers supplemented with MOLM were having significantly improved body weight, body height, body length and heart girth compared to the heifers in CON group. Blood parameters, including Red Blood Cells (RBCs), haemoglobin, and immunoglobulins, showed positive trends, with immunoglobulin G levels significantly higher in the MOLM group. In conclusion dietary M. oleifera leaf meal improved growth, body measurement and blood biochemistry of intensively managed cattle heifers.