Effects of Different Dietary Protein Levels and DL-Methionine Supplementation on Hair Growth and Pelt Quality in Mink (Neovison Vison)

The study examined how different levels of dietary protein and DL-methionine (Met) supplementation affected hair growth and pelt quality in minks. Four groups of male minks were given diets with varying protein levels: 32%, 24%, 16%, and 24% with Met supplementation. The results showed that decreasing dietary protein from 32% to 16% significantly reduced body and pelt length, weight, and the number and diameter of hairs. However, hair follicle density was not influenced by protein levels or Met supplementation. The study concluded that a 24% protein diet with Met supplementation was adequate for optimal fur characteristics, indicating the importance of dietary protein and Met for hair growth and pelt quality in minks during their growing-furring period.