Management strategies to improve efficiency of beef cattle production
Abstract
A 49-d study was conducted to evaluate preweaning in a feedlot to increase performance and immune function during postweaning. Eighty-four # Angus × # Nellore cows with 78 18 their calves were assigned to one of two treatments: preweaning in a feedlot (LOT; n = 41) or on pasture (PAS; n = 43). For 21 d prior to weaning, LOT cow-calf pairs were placed in feedlot pens, while PAS remained on pasture until weaning. All calves remained in the feedlot for 28 d postweaning. Preweaning calves in confinement resulted in greater (P ≤ 0.01) pre- and postweaning performance. Antibody production response to vaccinations were not affected by preweaning strategy (P > 0.50).
A 104-d study was conducted to evaluate timing of grain feeding on animal performance, carcass traits, and economic outcome in beef heifers. Twenty-one # Angus × # Nellore heifers were provided one of two diets 1) fiber-based and 2) corn-based. Heifers 18 were assigned to one of three feeding period treatments: 1) C from month 12 through 15 and F from month 16 through 23 (CFF); 2) F from month 12 through 15, C from month 16 through 19, and F from month 16 through 23 (FCF); 3) F from month 12 through 19 and C from month 20 through 23 (FFC). Treatment × period interactions (P < 0.01) were detected for performance measurements. During periods when cattle were fed grain, ADG was greater as was G:F. Ultrasonic measurements did not differ between treatments (P > 0.05). Period effects were detected for ultrasonic measurements (P < 0.01). Rib fat and rump fat were greater with each period. Ratios of IMF to subcutaneous fat decreased in period 1 from initial and were not different after that time. Significant differences for carcass characteristics were not observed (P ≥ 0.17). Feed costs and profitability were not significantly different between treatments (P ≥ 0.22).
Citation
Rushing, Emily (2020). Management strategies to improve efficiency of beef cattle production. Master's thesis, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /192762.