Cattle in feedlots play a major role in ensuring a steady supply of beef for the Australian market. However, ensuring the welfare and performance of these animals is crucial to maintain a sustainable and efficient industry. Recent research conducted by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has shed light on the benefits of providing shade and bedding for feedlot cattle, ultimately improving their comfort, welfare, and performance.
## A Closer Look at Feedlot Cattle Welfare
As the MLA-funded project “Evaluation of partial pen coverage with shelter in a commercial feedlot” discovered, feedlot cattle that have access to sheds with bedding tend to perform better than those without shade. The study, conducted in collaboration with Bovine Dynamics and Rangers Valley Feedlot in New South Wales, aimed to evaluate the impact of climate on cattle and explore solutions to mitigate adverse effects.
Dr. Melissa George from Bovine Dynamics highlighted the importance of considering environmental factors such as solar radiation and heat during summer, as well as wet and cold conditions during winter. By providing cattle with choices that positively influence their environment, the project aimed to improve animal welfare and overall performance.
## Unveiling the Project’s Design and Findings
The project involved the observation of 5,280 long-fed Angus cattle over the final 110 days of their feeding period. Three treatments were compared:
1. Unshaded with woodchip bedding (control)
2. Partial shelter cover with woodchip bedding
3. Partial shelter cover without woodchip bedding
While woodchip bedding may not be a common practice in Australian feedlots, Rangers Valley Feedlot has been utilizing it for the past 10 years with remarkable results. According to Alex Smith, the Feedlot Manager, bedding significantly enhances animal comfort, welfare, and performance. The shed’s design, allowing for effective air circulation and cooling, further contributed to the positive outcomes observed in the study.
Dr. Matt George, Managing Director of Bovine Dynamics, noted that cattle under the shed with bedding exhibited improved feed intake, conversion rate, average daily gain, and exit weight. The animals not only consumed more food but also converted it more efficiently due to the comfortable environment. Additionally, the use of woodchip bedding contributed to better musculoskeletal health in the cattle.
## Observations and Implications for the Industry
As the project progressed, Alex Smith observed interesting behavioural patterns in the cattle, noting their preference for the covered area of the shed. While initially startled by rain, the cattle acclimated to the shelter and actively chose between the covered and uncovered sections. This self-regulation allowed them to maintain their comfort levels across varying weather conditions.
Dr. Matt George highlighted the potential benefits of partial pen coverage in challenging environments, such as regions with high rainfall or altitude. Providing shade not only improves animal welfare but also enhances a feedlot’s resilience to climate variability. By adhering to best practice guidelines and offering choices for cattle, operators can ensure optimal conditions for the animals under their care.
In conclusion, the MLA-funded project on partial pen coverage and shelter for feedlot cattle has revealed significant advantages in terms of animal welfare and performance. By incorporating sheds with bedding, feedlots can create a comfortable and adaptable environment for their cattle, leading to improved outcomes across various evaluation categories. As the industry continues to evolve, prioritising the well-being of feedlot cattle remains paramount for sustainable and efficient beef production in Australia.
If you’re interested in learning more about the project and its findings, keep an eye out for the final report on the MLA feedlot management research and development page. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to hear Dr. Melissa George discuss the project further at the upcoming BeefEx Conference from 15–17 October. Subscribe to Cattle Weekly’s newsletter to stay informed about the latest developments in the Australian cattle industry and continue supporting sustainable practices for the welfare of feedlot cattle.
