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Influence of Grain Processing on Acid–Base Balance in Feedlot Steers

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Abstract

Grain processing (e.g. grinding, steaming, pelleting, flaking) has been reported to modify the incidence of ruminal disturbances in feedlot cattle. This study investigated the effects of two grain processing methods widely used in Spanish feedlots (grinding and pelleting) on animal performance, blood acid–base balance, blood electrolyte levels and serum lactate in a 140-day feedlot experiment with double-muscled Belgian Blue steers. The main aim of the study was to evaluate the way in which these two feeds modify blood acid–base balance, which is closely associated with ruminal pH. In light of our results we conclude that the animals that received the pelleted feed showed a more stable acid–base balance over time than those fed a ground feed. Nevertheless, higher levels of L-lactate and lower base excess (BE) and HCO3 − values for cattle fed pelleted grain reflect a greater risk of grain-acid overload.

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Abbreviations

AG:

anion gap

ADG:

average daily gain

BE:

base excess

CP:

crude protein

DMI:

dry matter intake

GF:

ground-feed group

pCO2:

partial pressure of CO2

PF:

pelleted-feed group

PCV:

packed cell volume

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria de Lugo, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Lugo

    C. Castillo, J. Hernández, V. Pereira, M. López-Alonso & J. L. Benedito

  2. Departamento Técnico de COREN, S.C.L., Orense, Spain

    J. Méndez & J. Llena

Authors
  1. C. Castillo
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  2. J. Hernández
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  3. J. Méndez
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  4. J. Llena
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  5. V. Pereira
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  6. M. López-Alonso
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  7. J. L. Benedito
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Correspondence to C. Castillo.

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Castillo, C., Hernández, J., Méndez, J. et al. Influence of Grain Processing on Acid–Base Balance in Feedlot Steers. Vet Res Commun 30, 823–837 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11259-006-3339-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11259-006-3339-8

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