Effect of lime treated olive cake on nutrient utilization and performanceof male goats

Current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of inclusion of lime treated olive cake in the complete feed of goats. Olive cake was treated with 6% slaked lime to increase availability of cellulose and to alleviate digestibility depression caused by higher fat content. Twelve local adult male goats were randomly allotted to control and treatment groups. Control group was fed ad libitum conventional complete feed and the treatment group was fed complete feed containing 30% lime treated olive cake for a duration of 30 days. The treatment feed was significantly (P<0.05) lower in organic matter, crude fiber and acid detergent fiber, however it was significantly (P<0.01) higher in calcium and acid insoluble ash. Mean body weight and daily feed dry matter and organic matter intake was comparable among groups and periods. The nutrient digestibility for crude fiber and acid detergent fiber was significantly (P<0.05) in treatment feed. Daily nitrogen intake and digestible crude protein intake (g/kg W0.75), was comparable between both groups. Calcium and phosphorus balance was comparable between two groups. No significant difference was observed between groups and periods for blood biochemical and serum enzymes. The results of the present study indicated that lime treated olive cake can be included in complete feed at 30% level for feeding of adult male goats without adverse impact on nutrient intake, utilization and general performance of the animal.