Evaluation of performance and metabolism of dairy cows fed pea seeds (Pisum sativum) with different anti-nutritional content

Abstract. The aim of this study is to determine the effect produced by selected pea cultivars with different anti-nutritional content on dairy cows’ metabolism. In the current ninety-day present, 32 dairy cows were divided into four groups (Z, G, GU and C). Three experimental groups (Z, G and GU) were fed a production mixture consisting of 25% pea seeds and the following: (Z – Zekon cultivar with low anti-nutritional content; G - Gotik cultivar with high antinutritional content; and GU – Gotik cultivar whose anti-nutritional content was reduced technologically). The control group was fed the production mixture with a higher proportion of extracted soybean meal and grain meal. Feeding rations were balanced to have an analogical composition of crude protein and energy. Feeding the pea supplement did not affect energy metabolism of the dairy cows. As for nitrogen metabolism, group Z showed higher concentrations of ammonia in rumen fluid and urea in blood compared to groups GU and C. No animal from the experimental groups showed reduced intake of feed. An insignificantly lower performance was noted (daily milk yield, protein production and lactose production) in group G. Overall, better results were observed in group Z. On the basis of the current study, peas can be used as an alternative source of proteins and energy in the diet of dairy cattle.