Evaluation of Buffering Agents in Feedlot Diets for Cattle

Authors

Travis Farran, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Galen E. Erickson, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Terry J. Klopfenstein, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

January 2003

Comments

Published in 2003 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report. Copyright © 2002 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Six ruminally cannulated heifers were used in a 6 x 6 Latin square to determine effects of Acid Buf, sodium bicarbonate and Rumensin on severity of acidosis and feeding behavior when fed to cattle consuming high grain finishing diets. Heifers received diets containing no added buffer, Acid Buf at 0.75% or 1.25% DM, sodium bicarbonate at 1.25% DM, 28 grams/ton Rumensin, or 28 grams/ton Rumensin + 0.75% DM Acid Buf. Heifers were adapted to dietary treatments 9 days before a 5-day data collection period. Animals fed Acid Buf and sodium bicarbonate had a higher average ruminal pH. Feeding Rumensin and Acid Buf alone or in combination resulted in a lower DMI than no added dietary buffer. Ruminal VFA analysis yielded similar results among treatments.