An Evaluation of Feedlot Arrival Castration Status on Individual Animal Performance Over a 61-Day Preconditioning Period in Calves Having an Ultra-High Risk of Developing Bovine Respiratory Disease

Authors

  • M. L. May Feedlot Health Management Services Ltd, Okotoks, AB, T1S 2A2
  • C. R. Krehbiel Department of Animal Science, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078
  • O. C. Schunicht Feedlot Health Management Services Ltd, Okotoks, AB, T1S 2A2
  • R. E. Peterson Feedlot Health Management Services Ltd, Okotoks, AB, T1S 2A2
  • C. W. Booker Feedlot Health Management Services Ltd, Okotoks, AB, T1S 2A2
  • L. O. Burciaga-Robles Feedlot Health Management Services Ltd, Okotoks, AB, T1S 2A2

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20114044

Keywords:

castration, feedlot performance, feed intake, animal health, male calves, preconditioning

Abstract

Castration at feedlot arrival may contribute to animal stress, and therefore have potential effects on feedlot performance and health. The purpose of this study was to follow two populations of male calves (those castrated prior to feedlot arrival and those castrated at the time of feedlot arrival) over a 61 day preconditioning period and to compare performance data based on individual animal feed intakes (GrowSafe Systems Ltd., Airdrie, Canada).

Cover image of the 44th Conference Proceedings: photo of the skyline of St. Louis, Missouri, site of the 2011 AABP Conference. Yellow background.

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Published

2011-09-22

Issue

2011

Section

Research Summaries 3

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