P.PSH.0805-Reducing induction stress in the Australian feedlot system

Summary

Stress incurred during feedlot induction can predispose animals to immune suppression and disease. Bromide, as a known anxiolytic and pan-neuronal inhibitor, has been demonstrated to have GABAergic activity and to reduce activity in the central amygdala; both important mechanisms for mitigation of the stress response.

This project examined the effects of bromide administration at induction on residues, feedlot cattle health and production.

Objectives

The primary objectives of this project were to:

• define the regulatory landscape for bromide in animal production industries
• determine the pharmacokinetic profile, including quantitation of residues from bromide administration to cattle
• identify health and production outcomes for cattle treated with bromide at feedlot induction.

Key findings

• This project has determined the desired label claim will be critical to determine the desired regulatory approval pathway. Both human food safety and target animal safety will require various studies but no major issues are anticipated.
• This study identified that oral treatment with bromide at feedlot entry did not have a significant effect on overall feeding period animal performance or morbidity.
• A statistical trend (P =0.08) was observed for reduced mortality with bromide treatment (0.72 vs. 1.55%). Control group animals were 2.86 times more likely to die during the trial than their untreated counterparts.

Benefits to industry

This project has explored possible mitigation of feedlot induction stress through bromide administration. Whilst a trend for reduced mortality has been observed, further research is required to confirm responses in larger populations of cattle, and if reasons for mortality are related to bromide treatment.

MLA action

MLA has extended the results to industry through final report publication and will enable CSU to pursue further development activities.

Future research

Further research is required to confirm mortality responses in larger populations of cattle, and if reasons for mortality are related to bromide treatment.