Effects of Infusing and Feeding Antibiotic on Growth and Nutrient Balance in Sheep

Abstract

TWO growth trials and nutrient digestibility studies were done using 12 Hampshire Rambouillet crossbred lambs given antibiotic orally or abomasally. Daily gain and efficiency of feed utilization were lower in the abomasally-infused animals. Crude fibre, protein, dry and organic matter digestibility was significantly lower [P<0.05] in those on oral antibiotics, as was the statistically significant difference in phosphorus intake [P<0.05). A 2-way analysis of variance showed that antibiotic administered orally or intra-abomasally did not significantly effect any changes in serum calcium and phosphorus balance. The average daily gain obtained in the second growth trial when the abomasally-infused group was switched on to oral antibiotic was the same as those on oral antibiotic from the start. These data indicate that oral route of antibiotic administration is preferable.