By Scout Nelson
Urea is a unique element in beef cattle nutrition, serving as a non-protein nitrogen (NPN) source. Unlike true proteins, urea lacks amino acids but still plays a crucial role in cattle growth, maintenance, and production. It becomes particularly beneficial when used in high-energy, grain-rich diets, providing an inexpensive source of crude protein.
The rumen microbes in cattle stomachs can utilize urea effectively, especially when there's ample energy in the diet. This inclusion enhances the rumen degradable protein percentage, offering a cost-effective alternative to natural protein sources like soybean meal. The slower digestion of forage diets can lead to less efficient use of urea.
Using urea does come with risks, notably urea poisoning or toxicity. This occurs when urea is converted too rapidly into ammonia in the rumen, especially in low energy diets or when urea is overconsumed. Symptoms like uneasiness, tremors, and rapid breathing indicate this condition.
Prevention is key, focusing on proper mixing, correct dosage, and avoiding certain combinations like raw soybeans, which contain urease that rapidly breaks down urea.
For safe urea feeding, it's recommended not to use it in diets for calves under 400 pounds or 120 days old, due to their still-developing rumen. Feeder cattle should start with minimal supplemental urea, gradually adapting to urea-containing rations.
It's also crucial to balance urea with ruminally undegradable protein sources, ensuring no more than one-third of the diet's crude protein comes from urea.
Photo Credit: istock-123ducu
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle