This study evaluated the effects of supplementing a total mixed ration (TMR) with graded levels of artificial saliva (AS) on rumen fermentation, trace mineral status, metabolic responses, and carcass traits of growing lambs using a completely randomized design. Forty-five lambs were assigned to diets containing 0, 1.5, 3.0, 4.5, or 6% AS. Artificial saliva supplementation produced clear dose-dependent responses. Moderate AS levels (1.5–4.5%) improved ruminal pH stability ( p = 0.002) and increased acetic and propionic acid production ( p 0.01), supporting improved rumen function. Ruminal fluid Cu, Zn, and Se concentrations increased with AS level ( p 0.0001), particularly at 6%, indicating enhanced mineral solubility. However, excessive AS (6%) reduced VFA production ( p 0.05), increased NEFA ( p 0.01), decreased serum glucose ( p = 0.0004), and reduced visceral and adipose tissue weights ( p 0.05), suggesting metabolic imbalance. Meat initial and ultimate pH were also higher at 6% AS ( p 0.0001), reflecting reduced glycogen reserves. Correlation analysis revealed strong associations between trace minerals (Cu, Zn, Se) and key physiological indicators, including NEFA, meat pH, and rumen color attributes, highlighting the integrative relationship between mineral metabolism, rumen function, and whole-body energy status. In conclusion, moderate AS inclusion improved rumen fermentation and maintained metabolic stability.
Abdelrahman et al. (Wed,) studied this question.