Effect of Supplementation of Rumen Protected Lysine and Methionine on Production Performance, Milk and Blood Parameters of Early Lactating Nili-Ravi Buffaloes

Milk production potential of buffaloes can be exploited through fulfilling nutritional requirements in terms of protein and energy. Two essential amino acids lysine (Lys) and methionine (Met) are limiting amino acids for optimum milk production in early lactation of these animals and are derived from dietary source. The objective of the present study was to analyze the effect of rumen protected lysine and methionine on the production performance of early lactating Nili-Ravi buffaloes. In total, (n=20) lactating buffaloes with same weight and parity were divided into four groups (A, B, C and D) for 60 days trial. The groups A, B and C received basal diet+Lysine 40g + Methionine 14g, basal diet + Lysine 30g+ Methionine 10g and basal diet + 20g Lysine + 7g Methionine, respectively. Whereas group D (control group) received basal diet without lysine and methionine supplementation. Milk production, however, was significantly (P<.05) greater in groups A and B as compared with the C and D. Milk protein, total solids, solid not fat and lactose were significantly greater (P<.05) in group C than A, B and D. Blood glucose level was greater in group C as compared to all other groups. Whereas, blood urea nitrogen was significantly greater in groups A and B as compared to rest of all other groups. It can be concluded that methionine and lysine supplementation had a positive effect on milk yield and milk composition (milk protein, solid not fat, total solids and lactose). It is suggested that for the optimum production performance in early lactating Nili Ravi buffalos, lysine and methionine supplementation can be a part of their ration.