Different fiber sources in dairy ass’s diet: effects on body condition and plasma leptin level

Ass's body condition and plasma leptin level were investigated in sixteen not pregnant pluriparous asses, divided into two groups fed two isoenergetic and isonitrogenous mixed feed including either wheat bran (group A) or dehydrated beet pulp (group B). Throughout the experiment, lasted 84 days, asses showed a good body condition unaffected by the dietary treatment. Although the investigated fibre sources did not affect plasma leptin level, measured for the first time in lactating asses, significant higher levels were observed at the end of lactation and were related to body condition score values (R-2 = 0.42; P < 0.01).