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Feeding cotton products to cattle
Glenn M Rogers1, Matthew H Poore, Joe C Paschal
1Department of Farm Animal Health and Resource Management, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA. glenn.rogers@pfizer.com
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Food Animal Practice
|September 19, 2002
Summary
Cottonseed products are a safe and cost-effective feed for cattle when used as recommended. Incorporating these byproducts can lower production expenses while maintaining or improving cattle performance.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Agricultural Economics
Background:
- Cottonseed products, including meal, hulls, and whole cottonseed, are byproducts of cotton production.
- Potential risks like gossypol toxicosis and fertility issues exist but can be managed.
- These feedstuffs offer economic advantages for cattle producers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and economic viability of cottonseed products as cattle feed.
- To inform beef producers about the benefits of incorporating cotton byproducts into feeding programs.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing research on cottonseed product utilization in cattle diets.
- Analysis of cost-benefit scenarios for different cattle production systems.
- Consideration of recommended feeding levels and risk mitigation strategies.
Main Results:
- Cottonseed products are safe and effective feed alternatives when fed at recommended levels.
- Incorporation of cottonseed byproducts can reduce feed costs.
- Cattle performance can be maintained or enhanced with appropriate use of these feeds.
Conclusions:
- Cottonseed meal is a valuable protein supplement nationwide.
- Whole cottonseed presents significant opportunities for Southern producers.
- Cotton gin trash, hulls, and textile waste offer localized economic benefits.