The Effect of Supplementing Mannan Oligosaccharide or Finely Ground Fiber, during the Summer on Body Temperature, Performance, and Blood Metabolites of Finishing Steers

Authors

Bradley M. Boyd, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Terry L. Mader, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Curtis J. Bittner Bittner, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Henry Hilscher, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Gene Wijffels, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
John B. Gaughan, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Megan Sullivan, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Judy Cawdell- Smith, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Galen E. Erickson, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2017

Citation

2017 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report. University of Nebraska Extension MP104. Lincoln, NE.

Comments

© 2016 The Board Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Crossbred beef steers (12 pens, n=96) were used to determine the effect of adding Agrimos or 5% ground (1 in.) wheat straw compared to a control on body temperature, panting score and performance. Th ere were no differences in final BW, ADG, and DMI among treatments. Feed conversion was increased for cattle fed 5% additional ground straw when compared to control and Agrimos. Hot carcass weight, dressing %, LM area, and marbling score were not different among treatments. Cattle fed the control had greater 12th rib fat depth and USDA yield grade than cattle fed straw or Agrimos. Both average and maximum body temperatures were slightly greater for cattle fed Agrimos than for cattle fed control or added straw. Panting scores were decreased slightly for cattle fed the extra straw when compared to control and Agrimos. The addition of Agrimos or wheat straw to the diet had minimal effects on heat stress measures.