Article Abstract:
The effect of a dietary source of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) on feed ingestion, ruminal fermentation and digestion in steers fed with hay, corn cobs or alfalfa cubes was evaluated. Results showed that the NDF source did not affect nutrient digestibility. However, rumen fermentation and nutrient availability were affected by the source of NDF due to dietary differences and the steers' selective ingestion of feed. Careful evaluation of the effects of dietary formulation on animal health and productivity is recommended before selecting a diet regimen for domestic animals.
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Article Abstract:
The influence of source and amount of neutral detergent fibers on mastication of steers during feed ingestion and rumination was evaluated. Results showed that chewing activities during feeding decreased in corn cob-fed steers and mastication during rumination decreased in both the corn cob- and alfalfa cube-fed beef cattle. This indicates that corn cob and alfalfa cubes are deficient in effective fiber which stimulates saliva secretion and ruminal functions.
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Article Abstract:
The effects of controlled roughage levels and ad libitum access to feed were evaluated in a study of feedlot steers. Results show that in the mid-finishing period, steer performance is not affected by lowering the roughage content of the finishing diets. The process lessens roughage use and cost of feeding. Furthermore, it was shown that stability in feed intake can be achieved by regulating the maximum steer feed intake.
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