Managing consistent intake in finishers
Consistent intake of a well-balanced diet lays the foundation for optimal growth in feedlot animals and economic efficiencies for farmers. Consider palatability, degradability and presence of anti-nutritional substances in dry matter, and minimise rumen pH changes to improve animals’ long-term health and performance.
How to recognise
Signs of a nutritional or metabolic disorder in feedlot animals include decreased feed intake, increased sorting of feedstuffs and reduced chewing activity. We encourage farmers to carefully monitor the formulation of their animals’ diets to avoid low pH levels in the rumen and blood, which can result in acidosis, liver abscesses, bloat and, in extreme cases, sudden death.
The impact on the farmer
Severe fluctuations in feed intake and rumen pH will have a major impact on the animal’s performance, health and well-being, which can all result in significant production loss for the farmer. We advise prompt implementation of proactive measures to improve nutrition and minimise the risk of higher production costs due to increased days to slaughter and health-related expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wie können wir die Trockenmasseaufnahme unserer Tiere optimieren?
Veränderungen der Aufnahme bedeuten Veränderungen in der Verfügbarkeit und Aufnahme von Nährstoffen im Tier. Ein sorgfältiges Fütterungsmanagement kann die Trockenmasseaufnahme positiv beeinflussen. Einige zu berücksichtigende Schlüsselfaktoren sind: ein angemessener Futterplatz für jedes Tier, um Rangkämpfe zu verhindern; 24 stündlicher Zugang zu den Futtermitteln; die Fütterung immer zur gleichen Tageszeit durchführen; schrittweise Änderungen an einer Ration vornehmen, um Ernährungsstörungen zu vermeiden; angemessene Futtermengen bei der Rationierung in der Endmast.
How does mineral management support intake consistency?
The right source of trace minerals in feedlot diets offers more palatable and nutritious feed, with less oxidation of essential lipids, vitamins and probiotics. Providing animals with IntelliBond as the source of trace minerals for zinc, copper and manganese improves their natural physiological response to inflammation and oxidative stress and supports optimal intake and performance.