Abstract

ROMO-VALDEZ, Ana et al. Importance of living space in the productive response and welfare of beef cattle in feedlot. Abanico vet [online]. 2021, vol.11, e502.  Epub Apr 04, 2022. ISSN 2448-6132.  https://doi.org/10.21929/abavet2021.42.

In the intensive beef production system, the living space allocated in the feedlot is fundamental for cattle to show their natural behavior, establish a hierarchical order and express their productive potential. If living space in the feedlot is reduced, the available area for shade and feeders is also reduced, compromising productive indicators and modifying cattle behavior by increasing agonistic behavior to define hierarchies within the pen. For the allocation of living space, it is necessary to consider climatic conditions of each region, especially in areas with high rainfall, or high environmental temperature and relative humidity; on the one hand, the excess of mud generates problems in the extremities, hinders the displacement of cattle inside the corral and decreases the feed conversion, as it requires more energy expenditure to facilitate the displacement. Increasing the living space in the pen improves cattle welfare, decreases morbidity and increases weight gain. It is therefore important to consider the environmental setting and the physical characteristics of the pens to provide optimal housing conditions.

Keywords : living space; bovines; intensive production.