Related Experiment Videos
Predicting individual feed requirements of cattle fed in groups
P J Guiroy1, D G Fox, L O Tedeschi
1Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA. pjg13@cornell.edu
Journal of Animal Science
|August 24, 2001
Summary
This study improved a model for predicting cattle feed intake, enhancing accuracy for individual animal management in feedlots. The revised model accurately allocates feed costs and improves profitability in group-fed scenarios.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Agricultural Engineering
Background:
- Accurate feed allocation is crucial for profitability in commercial feedlots.
- Existing models for predicting individual feed requirements in group-fed cattle need improvement.
- Individual animal management requires precise feed intake prediction for accurate billing and cost of gain calculations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To modify and evaluate a published model for predicting individual feed requirements in growing cattle.
- To improve the accuracy of feed prediction models for group-fed cattle in commercial feedlots.
- To enhance the accuracy of billing and cost of gain computations in marketing programs.
Main Methods:
- Developed an equation to predict empty-body fat (EBF) percentage from carcass measurements.
- Determined the relationship between EBF and USDA quality grades using a large dataset of steers and heifers.
- Modified and evaluated a feed intake prediction model using individual feeding data and a commercial feedlot dataset.
Main Results:
- The EBF prediction equation explained 61% of variation in one dataset and 51% in an independent dataset.
- Cattle reached Select and low-Choice grades at specific EBF percentages (26.15% and 28.61%, respectively).
- The revised feed intake model explained 74% of variation in observed dry matter (DM) consumed and predicted total DM consumed in a commercial feedlot with less than 1% bias.
Conclusions:
- Carcass measurements have limitations in accounting for fat distribution, impacting EBF prediction accuracy.
- Established target EBF percentages for specific USDA quality grades are critical for endpoint determination.
- The modified model accurately predicts feed requirements for individual cattle in group-fed commercial feedlots, considering breed type, body weight, average daily gain, and target endpoint.
- This improved model facilitates fair feed allocation and cost management in commercial feedlot operations.