<![CDATA[The utilization of palm kernel meal as a feed ingredient requires appropriate supplementary materials and processing methods to improve its value without causing adverse physiological effects in livestock. This study aimed to analyze the effects of complete feed processing forms based on palm kernel meal and Indigofera, namely mash, silage, pellet, and wafer, on the physiological responses and adaptation of sheep compared with a control diet consisting of forage and concentrate. The study used 20 male sheep randomly allocated to five treatments with four replicates. Measurements were conducted in the second, fourth, sixth, and eighth weeks of the rearing period and included rectal temperature, respiratory rate, and heart rate. The data were analyzed using a repeated measures design. The processing forms had no significant effect (P>0.05) on the three physiological parameters. Rectal temperature ranged from 38.65 to 39.15°C, respiratory rate from 33.00 to 48.00 breaths per minute, and heart rate from 69.00 to 96.50 beats per minute. The decrease in heart rate observed from the fourth week until the end of the rearing period indicated physiological adaptation. The different feed forms did not adversely affect sheep physiological responses and resulted in physiological adaptation comparable with the conventional diet. Keywords: feed processing, animal adaptation, physiological response]]>
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