Whole cottonseed inclusion in starter feeds improves performance, inflammometabolic profile, and rumination behavior in Holstein dairy calves

Abstract

Graphical Abstract Summary: For its fat and protein contents, whole cottonseed (WCS) may be defined as a concentrate. On the other hand, its fiber is similar to that of forages in terms of effectiveness in the rumen. Considering the high digestibility of WCS fiber, its inclusion in calf starter could improve growth and rumen development. Hence, we investigated the effect of including WCS at 8% on growth performance, inflammometabolic profile, and rumen behavior in Holstein heifer calves. Calves receiving WCS in the starter showed increased average body weight (BW), improved metabolic profile, and longer rumination time compared with the control group. These results suggest that WCS may be included as a starter ingredient with beneficial effects.