What are the general principles for raising velvet deer?
(1) Scientifically and rationally match the feed. To improve the production performance of deer, the feed should be scientifically and rationally matched according to local feed sources, types, reserve quantities, feed quality, deer management conditions, etc., so as to meet the nutrient requirements of velvet deer. Velvet deer have different nutritional needs at different stages. For example, male deer need more nutrition during the mating period and antler-growing period than female deer, while female deer need even more nutrition during pregnancy and lactation. Therefore, during the feeding process, feed supply plans should be prepared in advance to ensure that feed can be matched and adjusted promptly, scientifically, and rationally, so as to achieve good results.
(2) Adhere to using green and coarse feed as the main feed, with concentrate as a supplement. Because deer are herbivorous ruminants, green and coarse feed should be the main feed, and according to different seasons and growth stages, the insufficient nutrient portion should be supplemented with concentrate and dry feed. When preparing mixed feed, local green, succulent feed and coarse feed should be the main components, and various feeds that are low in price, abundant in quantity, widely available, and stable in supply should be used as much as possible.
(3) Feed at fixed times and in fixed amounts. The number of feedings should be relatively fixed, and all types of feed should be given at fixed times and in fixed amounts every day. Each feeding amount should be appropriate. If the amount is insufficient, the deer will not only be unable to rest quietly, but their digestive function will also be affected. Conversely, if too much is fed, it will not only cause feed waste, but also affect appetite for the next feeding. It is best for each feeding to be finished within 1 hour. During the feeding process, feeding time, order, and frequency must be strictly followed and must not be arbitrarily advanced, delayed, or changed. Generally, feeding time changes with the seasons, but should remain relatively stable. Under captive raising, the feeding order should preferably be concentrate first and coarse feed afterward. The feeding frequency should preferably be 3 times per day; in winter, it is best to feed 2 times during the day and 1 time at night. For deer herds raised by grazing, concentrate should be supplemented after returning from grazing.
(4) The amount and types of feed should remain relatively stable. Deer have obvious seasonality in production, and feed sources and types are also seasonal. Deer have a habitual nature regarding the feed they consume. The microorganisms in the rumen also have a certain selectivity and adaptability to the feed consumed. When feed changes suddenly, it will not only reduce the deer's feed intake and digestibility, but also affect the normal growth and reproduction of rumen microorganisms, thereby causing digestive dysfunction and nutritional imbalance in deer. Therefore, feed changes must be made gradually. If feed replacement is too abrupt, the deer will not be able to adapt for a time, thereby affecting the deer's appetite, feed intake, and digestibility, and it will also cause feed waste.
(5) The water supply must be sufficient. In hot summer, clean drinking water should be added at any time. In the cold winter season, warm water should be given to prevent drinking ice-cold water. The drinking water supply must be kept uninterrupted to ensure the deer's water needs.