Infrared technology may be able to help detect which animals are giving off more heat in the rumen, an indicator of poor feed efficiency
by DON STONEMAN
A link has been established between feed efficiency and the heat emitted by cattle after they eat, says University of Guelph animal scientist and geneticist Steve Miller.
Cattle that produce more heat – and methane – require more feed to get to market finish.
Now a study by University of Guelph animal science graduate student Yuri Montanholi shows a correlation between feed efficiency and the heat that is dissipated from cattle’s cheeks and feet after they eat.