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Influence of grain processing on acid-base balance in feedlot steers
C Castillo1, J Hernández, J Méndez
1Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria de Lugo, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain. ccasti@lugo.usc.es
Veterinary Research Communications
|September 28, 2006
Summary
Pelleted grain in feedlot cattle diets improved acid-base balance stability but increased L-lactate levels, indicating a higher risk of grain-acid overload compared to ground grain.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Ruminant Nutrition
- Feedlot Cattle Management
Background:
- Grain processing methods significantly impact ruminal disturbances in feedlot cattle.
- Understanding the effects of grinding versus pelleting is crucial for optimizing cattle diets.
- Acid-base balance in cattle is closely linked to ruminal pH and overall health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of ground versus pelleted grain on feedlot cattle performance.
- To evaluate how these processing methods alter blood acid-base balance and serum lactate.
- To assess the risk of grain-acid overload associated with different grain processing techniques.
Main Methods:
- A 140-day feedlot experiment with double-muscled Belgian Blue steers.
- Comparison of diets based on ground grain versus pelleted grain.
- Monitoring of animal performance, blood acid-base balance, electrolyte levels, and serum lactate.
Main Results:
- Pelleted feed resulted in a more stable blood acid-base balance over time compared to ground feed.
- Cattle fed pelleted grain exhibited higher L-lactate levels.
- Lower base excess (BE) and HCO(3)(-) values were observed in steers fed pelleted grain.
Conclusions:
- Pelleting grain promotes greater stability in blood acid-base balance in feedlot cattle.
- Despite improved stability, pelleted grain diets pose a greater risk of grain-acid overload.
- Careful consideration of grain processing is essential for managing ruminal health and preventing metabolic disturbances in feedlot operations.
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