Previous research at Kansas State University has shown that providing supplemental
energy when protein is deficient will cause a decrease in digestion of low-quality
forage. Our project examined the effects of supplemental glucose on low-quality forage
intake and digestion. Urea recycling is a mechanism by which cattle preserve nitrogen
when faced with a deficiency. Young, growing cattle receiving sufficient protein recycle
large amounts of nitrogen to the rumen. Our goal was to explore the effects of providing
supplemental energy and protein to cattle that are on the downward side of their
growth curve. Specifically, we measured intake, digestion, and urea kinetics in
these animals.
