ABSTRACT
Indo-Pak subcontinent has a rich history of small ruminant farming. There are many
indigenous breeds of sheep and goat contributing to the national economy and food
security of the region. Small ruminant farming reared by the pastoralists, settlers and
nomadic people mainly relies on the rangelands and temporary community pastures.
Historically, the shepherds offer their flocks the leaves and soft stems of many trees and
shrubs, now known to have tannin contents. The performance of the animals has always
found better with the animals fed on traditional forages containing tannins. Until last
couple of decades, there was no scientific evidence of the beneficial and/or adverse
effects of tannins. There are, however, many researches published during the last few
years, which have reflected upon the multiple benefits or harmful effects of the
condensed tannins in small ruminants. More of the published research advocates the use
of tannins for enhancing the animal production. Nevertheless, a debate is needed to use,
disuse, judicious use and significance of animal feeds supplemented with tannin or the
tannininferous forages. This paper offers a critical analysis of the conclusions based on
the research on tannin feeding and potential of tannin containing forages in improving
nutrient utilization and availability of proteins for better performance in small
ruminants. Suitable recommendations have been made based on logical discussion on
“pros and cons" of tannin feeding.