DocTalk Ep 597 - Understanding Feed Additives in Cattle with Dr Dan Thomson

In this episode of "Doc Talk," Dr. Dan Thomson discusses various common feed additives used in cattle management. These additives help improve feed efficiency, promote growth, and enhance animal health by addressing issues like acidosis, bloat, and liver abscesses. The main types of additives covered include antibiotics, ionophores, estrous suppressants, beta-agonists, and dewormers. Antibiotics like tylosin and chlortetracycline are used to control liver abscesses and treat bovine respiratory disease. lonophores, such as monensin, help alter rumen bacteria to produce more propionate, improving feed efficiency and controlling coccidiosis. Estrous suppressants like melengestrol acetate (MGA) prevent heifers from going into heat, reducing
injuries and improving feed efficiency. Beta-agonists are used at the end of the feeding period to increase muscle growth and reduce fat production, enhancing carcass weight and feed efficiency. Lastly, dewormers like fenbendazole, often used in combination with Ivomec-type products, effectively control internal parasites in cattle.Dr. Thomson emphasizes the importance of maintaining a veterinary-client-patient relationship (VCPR) and adhering to veterinary feed directives (VFDs) when using these products. These tools play a crucial role in reducing production costs and increasing the profitability of cattle operations.
#beefproduction #veterinarymedicine #doctalk #farmlife