Nutrition is crucial in shaping the rate and composition of growth in animals, especially cattle. The energy from food is first used for maintenance, then for protein growth, and lastly for fat deposition, following this order of priority. Maintenance needs are essential for the animal's survival, with remaining energy directed towards protein synthesis. Any excess energy is stored as fat.
The growth composition of an animal mirrors the substrates available relative to maintenance needs and the capacity for protein growth. When energy surpasses maintenance requirements, it is used for protein synthesis, and any leftover energy is stored as fat. Typically, as growth progresses, protein deposition rates increase at a decreasing rate, while fat deposition rates increase at an increasing rate.
This pattern results in a decreasing percentage of protein and an increasing percentage of fat in the body composition of growing cattle. High nutrition levels promote rapid growth, leading to fatter cattle at later growth stages and slaughter. This occurs because once protein growth needs are met, the body prioritizes fat storage.
The extent of these nutrition-regulated changes in body composition at any given weight depends on several factors: the animal's growth priorities, its growth rate, and the duration of growth at specific rates. Extended periods of slow growth generally produce leaner carcasses at any given weight, as the animal prioritizes protein growth over fat deposition. However, even with slow growth rates, cattle deposit some fat, guided by genetic instructions that balance protein and fat deposition.
Physiological mechanisms enable the retrieval of stored fat to provide energy for protein growth if necessary. This mechanism is vital for sustaining growth when dietary energy is lacking. Growth stage, nutritional schedule, and the type and amount of feed (forage versus grain) are critical factors influencing this balance and overall growth process.
In summary, understanding the complex relationship between nutrition and growth can optimize cattle development, leading to desired body compositions and enhancing meat production efficiency. By effectively managing nutrition, producers can influence the rate and composition of growth to meet specific production goals.
Optimizing Cattle Growth Through Nutritional Management
