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Energy Utilization in Heifers as Affected by a Low-Protein Isocaloric Diet

University of California, Davis

Abstract

Forty weanling heifers, consisting of 3 Angus and 37 Herefords, were used to observe the effect of a low-protein isocaloric ration followed by liberal feeding on the overall efficiency of energy utilization. To follow growth and energy changes, representative heifers were slaughtered at the beginning, at the end of the maintenance period when protein was restricted, and at the end of liberal feeding. Heifers were paired according to live weight.

On isocaloric rations heifers restricted in protein gained 0.6 lb. in live weight compared to 27 lb. for controls. Both rations resulted in carcasses of about equal caloric value. The same was also true for the caloric value of the empty body.

Compensatory live-weight growth during liberal feeding was great enough that the differences in final weight of paired heifers were not significant. The caloric value of the carcass and of the empty body of heifers previously restricted in protein was the same as for controls. Differences within pairs in marbling score or carcass grade were not significant.

¹ Department of Animal Husbandry.