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Effect of Dietary Screened Sawdust on Health, Feed Intake and Performance of the Bovine^{1, 2, 3,}

Kansas State University, Manhattan 66502

Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of dietary sawdust on animal health (especially on the gastrointestinal tract) and examined the merit of sawdust as a roughage substitute and/or intake regulator. Kiln-dried, screened sawdust from shortleaf southern pine (Pinus echinata) was combined (at various levels) with concentrate mixtures and fed to calves 2 weeks old and older. Feeds containing screened sawdust at levels of 10, 15, 25, 35 and 45% were fed for periods of up to 20 months. Certain experimental groups were observed for performance; other groups were slaughtered after specific feeding periods. Gross and microscopic patholgic examinations of the gastrointestinal sections and major visceral organs were conducted.

Results indicated that rations containing screened sawdust did not physically injure the gastrointestinal lining nor was any toxic effect apparent. Twenty-five percent sawdust appeared to be the most desirable level for roughage substitution; higher levels occasionally induced impaction of digesta. Voluntary regulation of feed intake at a level comparable with Morrison's recommendation for feeding beef calves (for rapid growth) was accomplished with feeds containing 35% sawdust.

¹ Contribution No. 815, Department of Dairy and Poultry Science, and No. 170, Department of Pathology, Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station, Manhattan.

² Partially supported by funds from Dierks Forests, Inc., Hot Springs, Arkansas.

³ Abstract of some of these data published in J. Dairy Sci. 51:952 (1968).

⁴ Present address: Hill City Animal Medical Center, Hill City, Kansas 67642.

⁵ Present address: University of Nebraska Veterinary Science Laboratory, North Platte Station, North Platte.