Impact of Ralgro (Growth Promoter) Implants on the Growth Performance of Sahiwal and Crossbred Male Calves

Author(s) : Murtaza Ali Tipu, Nasir Ali Tauqir, Anam Zohra, Asim Faraz, Riaz Hussain Mirza, Fayyaz Ahmad, Faisal Shahzad, and Tanveer Ahmad

Digital object identifier:

https://doi.org/10.52587/JAF050206

Abstract:

Two experiments evaluated the effects of Ralgro implants on the growth performance of male Sahiwal and Sahiwal × Friesian calves (n = 20, 12–14 months old, 100 ± 10 kg). Calves were randomly assigned to either a control or Ralgro-implanted group (36 mg per dose) and fed a high-concentrate Total Mixed Ration (TMR) with 2.35 Mcal/kg ME and 14.08% CP ad libitum for 100 days after a 10-day adaptation period. Daily feed intake and refusals were recorded, and live weight was measured bi-weekly. A digestibility trial assessed nutrient digestion, nitrogen balance, and meat quality. In Sahiwal calves, nutrient intake (CP, ME, DM, DMI % body weight) and feed conversion efficiency (FCE), average daily gain (ADG), DM digestibility, and nitrogen balance showed no significant differences between groups. NDF digestibility, however, increased linearly. In crossbred calves, Ralgro implants significantly improved ADG, nitrogen balance, and FCE. While Ralgro-implanted calves had better dressing percentages, marbling scores, and steak tenderness, these differences were not statistically significant. In conclusion, Ralgro implants primarily enhanced growth performance in crossbred calves, suggesting greater responsiveness to anabolic treatment. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.