Effects of Rumensin Level and Bunk Management Strategy on Finishing Steers

Authors

Ki Fanning, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Todd Milton, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Terry J. Klopfenstein, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
D. J. Jordon, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Rob Cooper, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Cal Parrott, Elanco Animal Health

Date of this Version

January 1999

Comments

Published in 1999 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report. Published by Agricultural Research Division & University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension , Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Abstract

Eight ruminally fistulated, yearling steers (two concurrent 4x4 Latin squares) were used to evaluate dietary Rumensin level (0, 30, 30/40 or 40 g/t), and bunk management strategy (ad libitum or clean bunk: 24- or 14-hour feed access). Rumensin decreased meal size and increased meal frequency without compromising intake. Clean bunk management increased consumption rate, meal size and ruminal pH change and pH variance. Steers with limited feed exposure are at greater risk for subacute acidosis; Rumensin effects consumption favorably for controlling acidosis, especially for cattle with limited feed exposure.