Fat and Urea in Finishing Rations for Steers

Abstract

Relations between animal fat and urea in complete mixed rations were studied in three feedlot trials and one metabolism trial. Rate of gain was consistently depressed by simultaneous additions of fat and urea. Adding fat to the control ration reduced (P<.01) digestibility of dry matter, energy and NFE. When urea was added along with fat, digestibility of crude protein was also reduced (P<.01). The addition of calcium, lysine or corn distillers dried grains with solubles to rations containing both animal fat and urea did not improve feedlot performance.