Improving the feed Utilization of Cassava Peels in smallholder goat production

Abstract

Cassava peels at 25, 50 and 100% were supplemented with varying levels of palm kernel cake with a basal diet of Pennisetum purpereum in an experiment designed to measure its nutritive values and effect on the growth and biochemical parameters of West African Dwarf goats under stall feeding conditions. Goats on 100% cassava peels (CPL) recorded the least dry matter intake (DMI). The supplementation of CPL with PKC significantly increased (P<0.05) the DMI for goats on 25 and 50% CPL with those on 50% CPL having the highest DM. The dry matter, crude protein and crude fibre of goats on 50% CPL were most digested (P<0.05) while those on 100% CPL were the least. The lower intake and digestibility of dry matter and crude protein by goats on 100% CPL reflected a significantly (P<0.05) low body weight change (0.55kg) compared to the other treatments. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) between the values for all the blood parameters monitored in the study as all fell within the normal range for goats. It was concluded that cassava peels can have a great potential for goat feeding as its feeding value can be improved by supplementing with a protein source, such as palm kernel cake.