The influence of microelements in the composition of the compound feed diet of Orenburg goats on physiological parameters

The study was conducted in the harsh continental climate of the Orenburg region to validate the feasibility of incorporating a complex of trace element salts (MnSO 4 , CoSO 4 , Cr 2 (SO 4 ) 3 , ZnSO 4 , Na 2 SeO 3 ) into compound feed to increase down production in Orenburg goats. The experimental methodology involved two stages: the first involved a comparative analysis of the elemental status and productivity of 104 goats; the second involved forming two groups of low-yielding goats (26 each). The animals in the experimental group were fed compound feed supplemented with trace element salts during the autumn-winter period (November-February). Highly productive goats (fleece production 0.27-0.39 kg/head) differ from low-productive goats (fleece production 0.16-0.26 kg/head) by higher wool content of Mn (by 1.61 μg/g), Co (by 0.05 μg/g), Cr (by 0.18 μg/g), Zn (by 9.42 μg/g), Se (by 0.18 μg/g). The average down productivity of high-productive goats was higher than that of low-productive goats by 0.09 kg, and the down content in the wool cover was 9.12 %. Correcting the elemental status of low-yielding goats increased down production by 34.96 g (15.65 %), the down content of the wool coat by 9.0 %, and the total amino acid content of the wool by 7.29 g/kg. The physiological status of animals in the experimental group was characterised by a more stable response to stress (itching): the increase in pulse and respiratory rates was lower than in the control group. Hematological studies confirmed the physiological status of goats in both groups within the reference range. An assessment of immune status revealed a negative correlation (r = -0.46) between down production and serum bactericidal activity. Supplementing the diet with trace element salts is physiologically safe and effectively intensifies down production in Orenburg goats.