(a) Explain how each of the following factors affect feed formulation for farm animals:
- age of the animal;
- physiological state of the animal;
- purpose of keeping the animal.
(b) State five precautions to be taken to ensure the preparation of good quality feed for layers.
Explanation
(a) Explanation of factors that affect feed formulation for farm animals
(i) Age of animal
- It determines the nutrient level of feed to be formulated
- It also determines the size of the particles of the feed
- It determines the type/form of the feed
(ii) Physiological state of animal
- It has to do with the health status of animal i.e. whether it is sick or well
- Also relates whether the animal is pregnant, dry or lactating, laying, growing
- Determine the type of feed to be fed to an animal
(iii) Purpose of keeping the animal
Feed formulated depends on the type of product/objective/output expected from the animal e.g. meat, egg, wool, draught/power/work
(b) Precautions to be taken to ensure the preparation of good quality feed for layers
- Obtain good quality ingredients
- Ensure correct formulation of feed using appropriate ratio(e.g. energy/protein ratio, minerals, vitamins)
- Mill to right particle size
- Ensure thorough mixing of feed
- Pack in a suitable container
- Store in an appropriate place
- Ensure hygienic conditions in the mixing parlour(mill)/hygienic environment