The nutritional value of poultry litter for ruminants

By: Abdulla Aboobaker , Ramadan Masood

Animal Production Department - Faculty Agriculture - university of Tripoli

Issue: Vol 20 |First Issue | 2014

article language: English

Abstract:

Urea is not necessary in the diet ruminant animals, but because of the ruminant unique ability to utilize the nitrogen from urea to form high quality microbial protein, therefore, urea can be fed as a replacement for part of the protein in a ration. Poultry litter, consisting of manure, bedding, and feathers, is high in nitrogen content and shows promise as a feed for ruminant animals. This review examines the nutritional composition of broiler litter, highlighting its high crude protein content (around 30% on a dry matter basis), energy value, and mineral richness (including Ca, P, K, and trace elements). It discusses the efficient utilization of non-protein nitrogen (NPN), primarily uric acid, by rumen microorganisms in cattle, sheep, and goats. The paper outlines successful incorporation levels in rations for beef cattle (up to 25% in finishing rations, even 80% for wintering beef cows with energy supplementation) and sheep (with caution due to copper toxicity risks, recommending limits below 30% and for short durations). Handling methods to ensure safety, such as heat treatment to destroy pathogens and removal of foreign objects, are emphasized. The economic advantage of using litter as feed compared to fertilizer is noted. While generally safe for cattle, the primary documented health concern is copper toxicity in sheep. The conclusion affirms the substantial value of properly processed poultry litter as a nutritious and economical feed ingredient for ruminants, contributing to sustainable waste management.