Effect of environmental temperature and humidity on intake and digestion of nutrients

¹ Physiology Laboratory, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, India

The intake and digestion of nutrients were measured in growing heifers of a good breed imported into a region of hot and humid climate notorious for the unthrifty condition of its cattle. The control group was maintained on the home tract of these animals. Effect of regional feeds, climate and seasons on feed and water intakes, digestibility of certain proximate principles and balances were studied to assess the extent to which alimentation becomes involved in the physiological adjustments to environments. The control group had a higher intake of feed, digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, ether extract and total carbohydrates, and balance of nitrogen than its counterpart on the same diet in a hot and humid area. Between the imported and local diet the animals preferred the diet of their home area. In all three groups there was a highly significant effect due to seasons. The interaction between group and season was also significant.