Can pets get COVID-19? What we know

Two dogs and one cat have been infected with COVID-19, but according to the CDC, WHO and AMVA, there is no evidence at this point that pets can spread COVID-19 to other animals or people.

• A 17-year-old Pomeranian in Hong Kong had several “weak positive” tests from nasal and oral swabs following its owner’s positive test. Unfortunately, the dog was already dealing with ongoing health issues and has passed away. A second dog was under quarantine and had consistently negative results for the virus. Neither dog had any respiratory symptoms.
• A 2-year-old German Shepherd, also in Hong Kong, has tested positive for COVID-19, as did the dog’s owner. Another mixed-breed dog in the household has tested negative. Both dogs are currently in quarantine, and neither dog has experienced any respiratory symptoms.
• A cat in Belgium has tested positive for COVID-19 after her owner’s positive test. The cat had digestive and respiratory issues but recovered nine days after her symptoms manifested.

As a precaution, if you are ill with COVID-19, the CDC recommends that you limit contact with animals until more is known about the virus. They recommend, if possible, that you have someone else care for your pet while you are sick. If you must care for your pet while sick, wash your hands before and after interacting with them.

What can we do?

1. Have at least 2 weeks’ worth of pet food on hand

Pet food companies and suppliers are working hard to make sure food will be available in-store and online. Refill any medications and keep a supply of supplements on hand to limit interactions at the pet store or vet clinic.

2. Pet stores and vet clinics are considered essential business

They are adapting to keep you safe with curbside pickup and delivery options. Pet food and supplies will be available thanks to those businesses — let them know they are appreciated.

3. Have a plan

Identify an emergency caregiver and create a list that includes your veterinarian’s contact information and your pets’ allergies, medications, favorite treats and daily habits.

4. Maintain your daily exercise routine

Exercise and fresh air may help relieve some stress for both you and your pet. Wash your hands before and after playing with your pet or cleaning up their feces. Keep their food and water bowls, bedding and toys clean.

5. Remember pets in need at shelters

Consider donating food, bedding or cleaning supplies. If you can do so safely, walk, foster or adopt a pet. Some shelters are temporarily closing to limit interactions, so bringing home a foster pet could be a great addition to your family during this time.

As we adjust to the new normal, check in — from a safe distance, of course — on your neighbors both with and without pets. Social distancing may keep us apart physically, but connection with the beings we love — whether they have four legs or two — will keep us all healthier and happier. We’re all in this together.

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Esca, one of the biggest threats to global grape production, is a complex fungal disease. It involves various fungal pathogens that combine to attack the plant’s main trunk and can destroy it within a few days. There is no questioning the unstoppable pace at which esca progresses.

While a previous article explored the history and economic impact of esca, in this article, we will delve into what we know about its biology.

Esca sensu stricto was the name given to white rot in the trunks of mature plants. The accompanying symptoms that manifest on leaves, on the other hand, are the result of extensive colonization of the trunk by pathogenic fungi, not the white rotting fungi.

According to recent studies, the three primary fungal pathogens that are associated with esca include:

• Phaeoacremonium aleophilum, which is considered a pioneer of the esca complex system of infecting the plant through pruning wounds (but not through infected pruning tools). The inoculum is a perithecium — a hollow fruiting structure of some fungi — located in the crevices of vines that spreads after rain, most often in the summer.
• Phaeomoniella chlamydospora, another pioneer of esca, infects the plant in the winter after rainy events through pruning wounds. The contaminating spores come from older pruning wounds and crevices or from underneath the bark in areas previously exposed by wounds.
• Fomitiporia mediterranea, which is responsible for the white rot in vines affected by esca. Its spores come from the dead parts of the vine. This fungus is not present in wood that is less than one year old, meaning it cannot be transmitted from one plant to another during pruning.

In every case, the wood of the vines is infected after pruning, with fungi developing and progressively colonizing the tissues of the grapevine. Slowly, the fungi impact the flow of sap in the wood, clogging its vascular system; subsequently, the parts of the vine without sap flow begin to die. The symptoms of esca only appear five to eight years after the first contamination — but when esca is present in its apoplectic form, these symptoms are so intense and spread so quickly that the vine can die in a matter of days.

The most favorable conditions for esca are temperatures between 70–90° F with a humidity level of 60% or more. The especially high temperatures of summer are favorable to the apoplectic form of esca. The environmental factors favored by esca are still not well understood, however, and the different fungal pathogens associated with the disease can react differently to these parameters.

When it comes to their sensitivity to esca and other wood diseases, not all grape varieties are equal. Although more than 50% of grape varieties are usually attacked by esca at rates of 5% or more, some, like pinot noir 51 or Syrah, have very low levels of esca, while Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling are affected more often.

Esca can impact quality

A 2015 study run by M. Jourdes at the University of Bordeaux and the Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA) investigated how esca could affect the quality of both the grapes and the wine made from the affected grapes. The study concluded that grapes affected by esca exhibited an important delay in maturity, which included less sugar (-10%) and more acidity (+20%), in addition to reduced yield. When grapes from the affected vines were incorporated, even at levels as low as 5%, the sensory properties of the wine were significantly altered, including decreased fruity aromas and an elevated earthy/vegetal/herbaceous character.

Since the ban of sodium arsenite, no efficient treatment for esca has entered the market. Some recent studies have considered the effects of incorporating solutions that could activate the natural defense reactions of the plant in conjunction with molecules that exhibit antimicrobial properties.

Alltech Crop Science explores organic solutions

Alltech Crop Science, a global leader in innovative organic solutions, is studying alternative ways for farmers to protect their vines. The Alltech nutrigenomics research team has been studying nutritional programs that could activate the plant’s defense genes, allowing it to better defend itself against diseases like esca. Our global research partners — particularly in Spain — are also leading the charge to solve this problem, with promising initial results.

For more information, visit go.alltech.com/your-crop-science-partner.

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Calving is coming to an end, giving producers the ability to breathe and recover from, arguably, their most stressful time of year. However, for the calves they are raising, the most stressful period is yet to come. The weaning process is widely recognized to be one of the most stressful stages within the beef system.

As an industry, we are beginning to understand that prolonged periods of stress can negatively affect:

• Overall health
• Average daily gains
• Feed efficiency in beef cattle

These losses in growth efficiency in stocker cattle also lead to losses in overall profitability.

With the knowledge that stress negatively impacts animal health and performance, producers should start focusing on producing resilient calves that can handle the stress of weaning. Developing management practices that focus more on disease prevention is the key to building a healthy, resilient calf crop.

Effective preventative health management programs require producers to evaluate their individual production systems to determine what type of health challenges they need to manage and when these challenges will occur. The best place to start implementing preventative health measures is at the cow-calf operation. When it comes to having the most impact on lifetime animal health, cow-calf producers hold all the power.

As an industry, we must give great attention to preparing calves for dealing with upcoming stress. We work to minimize the duration and the degree of stress that animals experience during weaning, but these stressors are never going to fully disappear. The question then becomes: How can we manage herds so that they we are producing resilient calves that can handle the stress of weaning?

Challenges

Managing animal health and production losses in beef calves that are stressed after weaning is a major concern for producers. The stress animals experience during these periods of transition does have consequences, like suppression of immune functions and decreased growth, both of which lead to overall losses in production. One major component of a preventive health management program should be developing a healthy gut prior to weaning.

Backgrounding cattle for about 30 days following weaning is an ideal way to minimize stress and straighten out heifer and steer calves before transitioning them to the feedlot. Backgrounding periods are usually forage-based systems that aim to increase body weight through frame growth and muscle development rather than establishing fat.

Backgrounding and stocker enterprises present an excellent opportunity to establish a healthy gut before feedlot receiving.

Overall gut health is predicated on several factors:

• Establishing a stable gut bacterial population
• Maintaining intestinal integrity
• Promoting healthy immune function

A heathy gut is essential for efficient nutrient absorption and immune function. Scours is one gut health issue that is normally seen during the weaning period. Scours is the result of an unhealthy, inflamed gut. The key to a healthy gut is establishing and maintaining a healthy gut microbial population so that the pathogenic bacteria don’t have the chance to overpopulate and cause inflammation.

Solutions

Preventative health programs should include vaccination protocols developed with your veterinarian and the implementation of low-stress management practices. However, the use of nutritional technologies designed to support and promote gut health are often overlooked when developing health protocols.

Bio-Mos 2 is the second generation of Bio-Mos, an industry leader in calf health. Bio-Mos 2 is a mannan rich fraction (MRF) derived from the cell wall of a select strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast. This MRF is a complex branched-manna fraction that has been shown to promote a healthy gut microbial population and optimize growth through research conducted at Alltech’s nutrigenomics lab.  

How to feed Bio-Mos 2

Bio-Mos 2 was designed to promote a healthy gut, especially during high-stress periods like weaning and feedlot transition. Bio-Mos 2 supplementation can easily meet the needs of a variety of management styles and can be incorporated into multiple feed types. Bio-Mos 2 can be used in pre-weaning creep feed formulations. Ideally, that creep feed would be fed prior to and through weaning to help reduce stress by familiarizing calves to a feed that will be available throughout weaning and minimizing their time off feed.

Bio-Mos 2 has also been added to low-moisture tub formulations and preconditioning supplements to help alleviate stress during backgrounding and in stocker operations. Feedlot receiving diets can also benefit from the addition of Bio-Mos 2.

Backed by science

A study done by the University of Florida looked at how Bio-Mos 2 supplementation affects animal performance during a 52-day precondition period following being weaned. Bio-Mos 2 supplementation was shown to improve average daily gain for cattle from 0.72 pounds per day for the control group to 1.05 pounds per day for the Bio-Mos 2-supplemented group. This improvement in ADG translated to a lower cost of gain with Bio-Mos 2 at $0.73 per pound compared to $1.29 per pound for the control calves.

I want to learn more about nutrition for my beef cattle. 

Daily nursery pig care should focus on four areas: feed, water, environment and animal care. Providing for the basic needs of young pigs can go a long way in promoting health, efficient growth and a successful nursery program.

Feed: Getting young pigs started right

Feed intake is crucial for a newly weaned pig. Weaning is a stressful time for the young pig due to a myriad of factors, including maternal separation, changes to their environment, transportation stress, establishment of a social hierarchy, abrupt diet changes, vaccinations and exposure to pathogens. Health is a huge factor at this stage of life, so providing weaned piglets with the proper nutrition to help them transition from milk to dry feed is critical. Below are some feeding strategies that can help improve the post-wean transition, increasing the likelihood that the pig will thrive.

Feed quality

Providing pigs with high-quality feeds requires taking many steps along the production chain. It starts with ingredients that have a high nutrient value and are free of contaminants. The processing, delivery and storage of the diet can also affect the quality and final composition of the feed. Understanding the factors that affect feed quality and implementing a quality-assurance program will help ensure that the best possible nutrition is delivered to the pigs.

Feeder adjustment

The proper adjustment of feeders is a labor- and time-intensive task. It is, however, essential in that it not only helps maximize feed intake but also helps reduce feed wastage, especially during the nursery period, when diets are expensive.

• To maximize feed intake, young pigs must be able to easily access the feeder. The feeder must be open and easy to find so that pigs have unrestricted access to it. 
• Based on practical experience, the generally recommended steps are, first, to close the feeder adjustment gate and fill the feeders with the first starter pellet, and then to adjust the gates to be the proper height while slightly shaking or tapping the feeder.
• During the first week post-weaning, allowing 2/3 of the feeder pan to be covered with feed ensures that the pigs are attracted to the feed.
• In the following weeks of the nursery period, target 1/2 of the feeder pan to be covered with feed will ensure minimal feed wastage.  

Mat feeding

The biggest opportunity to boost growth and support livability/health is by increasing intakes during the first 7 to 10 days post-weaning. What do you feed pigs after weaning? The transition from a sow’s 20–24 lactation events per day to an ad-lib environment sometimes challenges the young pig’s feed intake.  The goal of mat feeding is to stimulate the activity level of the pigs and act as a “dinner bell” signifying that it’s time to eat.

• Walking pens and mat feeding four times per day will provide the best results.
• Mat feed 1 pound of feed (0.5 kg) per 40 pigs per feeding, but no more than what they will clean up in 15 minutes. 
•  A 1-pint scoop works better than a larger scoop in terms of providing the accurate amount and reducing wastage.                       

Gruel feeding

Similar to mat feeding, gruel feeding helps to boost growth and support the livability and health of small and sick/starve-out pigs, which struggle to make the switch to dry feed post-weaning, helping nursery pigs transition from sow milk to feed.

• Gruel is a mixture of dry feed ingredients mixed with water or other liquid products, such as milk replacers, that is designed to increase intake.
• In the case of small piglets or piglets with a slow growth, it is recommended to use pre-starters, a milk replacer or rolled oats; for normal piglets, pre-starter feed may be used.
• The proportion of water to feed is slowly reduced so the piglets can adapt to the consumption of increasingly more solid feed.
• To make gruel, mix one part dry feed with two parts water/liquid. The consistency of the gruel should be similar to that of oatmeal.
• Keep in mind that, in the winter, it is better to use lukewarm water.
• Remember that gruel pans should be placed away from the sleeping area to keep pigs dry.

Water: The forgotten nutrient

The quality of water and the amount consumed are extremely important aspects of pig production, but unfortunately, they are also often overlooked. Pigs that don’t drink enough water won’t consume enough feed. Daily water usage is a good indicator of pig health. When your pig’s water consumption drops for three continuous days or drops by more than 30% in one day, this may indicate that they are potentially experiencing a health challenge.

• To encourage young pigs to drink, it is best to provide water in open cube drinkers, poultry drinkers or water bowls for the first 3 to 4 days after weaning.
• If nipple drinkers are the only source of water, it may take young pigs up to 24 hours to drink an adequate amount, and if the drinkers are not functioning correctly, some pigs may never get enough.
• The general recommendation is to limit water pressure to 20 psi in drinking supply lines.
• Adding acidifiers, such as Acid-Pak 4-Way®, to drinking water optimizes pH levels and maintains water balance, helping promote water intake, especially when intake is low or variable.

Water drinking requirements

Outlined below are guidelines for the proper drinker height, flow rate and daily water consumption for wean-to-finish pigs.

Managing barn environment

Environmental controls in pig housing are important for animal growth and health. Modern farms have computer-controlled systems that are adjusted automatically to optimize the environment depending on the stage of growth or reproduction, based on ideal temperature curves established by research and models. For example, for growing pigs, the temperature needs to decrease by set amounts as the pigs increase in body weight. However, it is important to ensure that the correct growth curve is selected in any automated system to account for the breed, age and health of the animals.

It takes several days for newly weaned pigs to adjust to their new surroundings and the new supply of water and feed, and feed intake may drop during this crucial time. Weaned pigs require a warm environment, between 85–89°F, depending on the weight or health of the pigs.

Seeing pigs laid out next to each other is a sign that they are comfortable, neither too cold nor too hot. If pigs are spread out, it could be a sign that they are too hot. If they’re piling up on each other too deeply, then it could it be a sign that they are too cold. Although computer-controlled systems are very useful, management by barn workers, who can make suitable adjustments regarding changes in temperature regulation, is still key to ensuring the growth and health of the pigs.

Ventilation

The critical components of ventilation include:

• Desired room temperatures
  • Health-challenged pigs require a 2–5-degree warmer barn.
• Humidity control
  • It is critical that the humidity remains below 65%.
• Warm and dry mats

PIC generally recommends 2 CFM/pig at placement; however, in the case of PRRS-positive pigs, it may be necessary to remove air at a higher exhaustion rate to achieve less than 65% humidity.

• Brooders should produce temperatures around 95°F directly beneath themselves. Pigs should remain warm, dry and comfortable. To accomplish this, use properly functioning brooders and ample mat space (0.4 sq. ft/pig).
  • If mats become wet or caked with feed or manure, flip the mats over to regain a dry, black surface that effectively absorbs heat.
  • Mat temperatures may need to extend beyond 95°F to keep pigs comfortable.
  • Brooders should be in place and functional for 14–21 days, depending on pig comfort and the severity of the disease.
  • Brooders should be in place within intensive-care pens throughout the grueling period.

Animal care

Pen walking

Conducting daily walk-throughs is an important task that all barn workers should make a part of their routine. Pig nursery pens should be walked daily to:

• Look in each feeder to ensure that the feeder has the proper amount of feed and is clean.
• Look in the trough of each feeder to ensure that the feeder is adjusted correctly and that there is the correct amount of pan coverage.
• Inspect the floor of the pens for excessive wetness, accumulation of manure and signs of diarrhea.
• Inspect each pen for damaged or bent rods that could injure pigs by sticking out into the pen.
• View every pig from snout to tail, head to toe; the rule of thumb is to spend 2 seconds per pig.
  • Identify and pull fall-behinds.
  • Identify, pull and treat sick pigs.
• Check water flow rates.
• Mat feed.

Individual animal care

Starting weaned pigs is the most critical task in a nursery barn. Unless they are presented with significant health challenges, pigs that start well tend to experience rapid growth and improved feed conversion. Unfortunately, the opposite is true in pigs that start tough, who tend to be a challenge all the way to marketing. One of the most common challenges in hard-starting weaned pigs is identifying sick pigs vs. starve-out pigs. Medications are beneficial for sick pigs but do not provide calories to starve-out pigs. Correctly identifying the root cause will allow for proper management.

When walking through the barn, it is critical to keep an eye out for symptoms that could be signs of diseases or nutrition issues.

• Look at hair coat and/or color; a young pig’s hair coat gets coarse and dirtier when the pig is not feeling well.
• If a pig looks gaunt or redder in color, it could mean that it hasn’t been eating or drinking.
• Check for signs of respiratory diseases, which include coughing, breathing heavily (thumping), open-mouthed breathing and depression.
• Keep an eye out for pigs with red butts or diarrhea/scours, which is commonly seen in thin pigs.
• Sick and/or starve-out pigs should be placed into a fallback pen, as this is a lower-stress environment and will allow them to be treated accordingly.
• Watch for signs of lost body condition score, such as a visible spine, hip bones or ribs.
• Check for gut fill and identify pigs that have sunken-in flanks.
• Hold the pig upside down by its back legs, placing your thumb over the pig’s back and your fingers over the pig’s abdomen, squeezing your fingers toward your thumb to evaluate gut fill.
  • If your fingers easily depress the abdomen, the pig is off feed.
  • If abdomen is full, with plenty of resistance, feed intake is adequate.

A pig never gets over a good — or bad — start, so it’s on us, as animal caretakers, to provide the proper environment and nutrition for our young piglets to get off to the right start, setting the stage for their success.

I want to learn more about nutrition for my pig herd.

What is coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)?

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory condition that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that was first identified in the city of Wuhan, China.

How is COVID-19 spread?

It is likely that the virus that causes COVID-19 emerged from an animal source but is now spreading from person to person. It is believed that the virus spreads mainly among people who are in close contact with each other (within 6 feet) through respiratory droplets that are disseminated when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

It may also be possible for a person to contract COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that is hosting the virus and then touching their mouth, nose or possibly their eyes, although this is not believed to be the main way the virus spreads. Learn what is known about the spread of coronavirus here.

 What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Patients with COVID-19 experience mild to severe respiratory issues with the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

What are the serious complications caused by this virus?

Some patients contract pneumonia in both lungs and experience multiple organ failure, and some patients have died.

What can I do to help protect myself and my coworkers at my dairy?

People can protect themselves from respiratory diseases by taking the following preventive measures every day:

• Avoid close contact with sick people, both on and outside of your dairy.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth if your hands have not been washed.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Wash your hands before you eat after working in the milking parlor or other areas of the dairy.
• Ask the dairy manager or owner to keep the restrooms stocked with disinfectants and soap.
• Always wear milking gloves.
• Constantly change milking gloves.
• When you get home after working in the dairy, always take a shower and wash your work clothes.
• Keep the bathrooms and kitchen area in your workplace clean and disinfected.
• Keep tractors clean and disinfected.
• Keep social distance.

If you are sick, to prevent transmitting your respiratory illness to others, do the following:

• Stay home if you’re sick.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a disposable handkerchief when coughing or sneezing, then throw it away.
• Frequently clean and disinfect the objects and surfaces you touch.
• Form emergency plans for your dairy in the event of an illness.

Ask the dairy manager or owner to call the doctor’s office if you have severe symptoms.

Is there a vaccine for COVID-19?

There is currently no vaccine to protect against COVID-19. The best way to prevent infections is to take daily preventive measures, such as avoiding close contact with sick people and washing your hands frequently.

Is there a treatment?

There is no specific antiviral treatment for COVID-19. People with COVID-19 can seek medical attention to help relieve symptoms.

For more information on COVID-19, visit www.cdc.gov/COVID19.

Getting the right start on-farm is key to optimal fish performance throughout their lifecycle. Each species of fish or shrimp requires a nutritionally balanced aquaculture feed that is tailored for each specific stage in their development. Providing nutritional solutions for the particular needs of larvae — their most critical life stage — benefits the fish during their entire lifecycle. An ideal start begins with optimal nutrition that supports the healthy development of all organs. Not meeting these nutritional requirements can potentially lead to deficiencies and deformities, such as poor growth and increased mortality, and, ultimately, result in decreased producer profitability.

Advantages of using a high-quality, nutritionally balanced aquafeed:

• Minimal nutritional deficiencies
• Optimal development and foundation for future growth
• High digestibility for optimal performance and water quality

Creating an optimal fish ecosystem

In fish farming environments, some variables can affect production, including temperature, oxygen, ammonia levels and water quality. Modern recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) give greater control over these factors. The same can be said for aquafeed production; the quality of raw materials, nutritional formulations, transportation, performance, climate and feed mill operation can all impact the performance and productivity on-farm. Fish will perform best when an optimal environment is maintained; aquafeed and aquaculture supplements play a critical role in this.

Creating an optimal environment relies heavily on water quality. It is crucial for maximum growth, health and survival throughout the production cycle. Ingredient quality and nutrient availability aids digestion and nutrient absorption and utilization, resulting in healthier fish, but also lower feces production and less pollution in the systems and the environment. Getting the foundations right as early as possible helps fish reach their maximum potential.

Maintaining water quality

Maintaining water quality is largely connected with the quality of aquafeed. Any uneaten or undigested feed that is excreted into their environment is not only wasted but also causes unnecessary pollution and additional, unnecessary stress. For this reason, the feed must be highly palatable and suitable for the correct species and their developmental stage. Not meeting these needs from the start can have adverse effects on fish health.

Recent research completed at the Alltech Coppens Aqua Centre displayed the improvements in growth and performance when feeding two of Alltech Coppens’ starter feeds to rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) during the hatchery phase. The results of this benchmark trial are shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Results of a starter feed benchmark trial performed in the Alltech Coppens Aqua Centre.

Supporting internal defense systems

A fish’s skin, gut and gills are the primary points of interaction with the external environmental factors that can impact on their health. Both internally and externally, these organs must be protected. Included in all Alltech Coppens feed is a premix known as Aquate®. Aquate has been specially formulated to meet the specific requirements of each aquatic species and life stage. It encourages healthier and more robust populations and boosts natural defense systems, aiding gut function. The best farm results are seen when feeds containing the Aquate package are fed throughout the entire life of the fish, as this feeding strategy creates continuity in the supply of their nutritional requirements.

Advantages of sustainable aquaculture

We live in a rapidly changing environment, with pressure on nature, wild fish stocks and food security. This should not be underestimated; we have an obligation to produce sustainable, well-balanced animal protein responsibly. This is a commitment that we take very seriously in Alltech.

A key element in producing sustainable fish and seafood is the reduction of fishmeal and fish oil in feed production. When reducing these key ingredients, close attention must be paid to the nutritional balance of the feed to ensure it meets the essential nutrient and energy requirements of farmed species. The cost of aquafeed in aquaculture is the single highest operational cost for a producer in the industry. Any small change can have a significant impact on profit yield. It is necessary to look at the nutritional profile and quality of raw materials to find a balanced feed for each farm.

Innovative research in the Alltech Coppens Aqua Centre has led to lowering our carbon footprint, lowering phosphorus and nitrogen emissions and a low inclusion of fishmeal and fish oil in feed formulations with no impact on the growth and performance on-farm.

I want to learn more about aquaculture nutrition.

Research shows that, in order to increase hot carcass weight in beef cattle, farmers need to work toward producing healthier animals by increasing feed efficiency.

Feedlot cattle use high-energy feed ingredients to reach their potential for meat production. With high production costs, animals must be as efficient as possible at utilizing the nutrients released from feeds in order to increase profitability at the feedlot. 

Cattle rely on the rumen to break down fiber; however, some undigested ingredients can bypass the rumen and cause:

1. Hindgut fermentation
2. Indigestion
3. Less effective use of nutrients

Identify the problem

Scientists at the Alltech Center for Animal Nutrigenomics and Applied Animal Nutrition continuously analyze how specific food and diet formulations can change gene expression and alter performance. Research into the finishing stage has focused on aspects such as hot carcass weight and feed efficiency in beef cattle. Scientists have even discovered a way to predict responses to certain feed ingredients. Among the top 10 breakthroughs at the research center is a product whose name says it all: Amaize®.

Amaize, an extract of Aspergillus oryzae fermentation, contains alpha-amylase enzymes that modify starch digestion, maximizing feed efficiency and increasing production. Amaize fractions starch to change the volatile fatty acid profile in the rumen, which leads to physiological changes in the animal, breaking down feed ingredients to enhance cattle metabolism. Using traditional techniques, researchers were successful in demonstrating that adding Amaize to the diet resulted in carcass weight gain for beef cattle.

Conduct research in the lab

Examining rumen fermentation patterns and tissue samples using gene expression, however, showed that the mode of action for Amaize was much more complex than it originally appeared. The enzyme’s impact on the animal’s metabolic system showed that Amaize optimizes animal growth not by increasing digestion; rather, Amaize promotes specific rumen microbial populations that would typically be associated with fiber digestion. Modification in microbial populations resulted in changes in rumen fermentation patterns and end products, including increased butyrate concentrations and other metabolites.

The downstream effects of this shift include changes to the blood metabolites and genes related to energy utilization for growth. Gene expression evaluations have shown that genes related to the expression of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), insulin receptors and growth hormone receptors were affected positively in muscle tissue. Changes in gene expression suggest a correlation to improved energy balance, increased metabolic activity and, therefore, muscle growth.

Nutrigenomics has allowed scientists to more precisely understand the mechanism of action of Amaize, making it possible to issue specific recommendations to farmers regarding when and how to incorporate Amaize into their cattle’s diets, increasing growth efficiency in beef cattle.

Get out of the lab and into the field

While nutrigenomic studies have proven that an increase in hot carcass weight and dressing percentage were possible, field research confirmed the phenomenon of higher carcass weight in finished beef cattle, correlating to an increase in ROI. Since the discovery of the Amaize enzyme, numerous studies have been conducted in both university and commercial settings. These studies confirmed that the ideal dose rate for Amaize is 5 grams per head per day for feedlot cattle; there are no additional benefits associated with providing it at higher levels. 

While, individually, each of these studies showed the positive effects of feeding Amaize, it was when they were examined as a whole that the real value for the producer was uncovered. These studies included a variety of breeds, diets (including steam-flaked, rolled and high-moisture corn-based diets), locations and weather conditions — proving the consistency of Amaize in diverse conditions. The studies showed that, on average, the product has the ability to increase dressing percentage by 0.5% units and hot carcass weight by 15.5 pounds. In today’s cattle market, that extra 15.5 pounds of hot carcass weight means that Amaize achieved a 10:1 return on investment.

Encourages ruminal digestion	Maximizes performance	*Based on an average comparison of 14 trials

Using enzymes like Amaize to alter rumen fermentation and metabolism proves that it is a key component for optimizing finishing diets, driving carcass weight gain and maximizing return on investment. Find out how Amaize can help you increase your ROI.

​

I want to learn more about nutrition for my beef cattle.

For nine years now, Alltech has analyzed the animal feed industry through its annual Global Feed Survey, a yearly collection of data representing information from over 140 countries about feed manufactured for animal protein production. Those in the industry find this information useful; it’s an indicator of growth and progress and serves as a good resource for policy-makers, financiers and industry groups and associations. But why should the rest of us be interested in this data? What can the feed industry tell us about food trends, consumer demands and people’s tastes? As it turns out, quite a bit!

Alltech’s 2020 Global Feed Survey not only established the trends in feed production — it also gathered information through a qualitative survey to home in on these hot topics and see what their effect might be on animal agriculture and the feed industry as a whole. This year, the feed survey was presented by Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech, who moderated a panel discussion featuring industry experts in food and agriculture, including:

• Jack Bobo, CEO, Futurity
• Bianca Martins, general manager, Alltech Mexico
• Matthew Smith, vice president, Alltech U.K.
• Brian Lawless, North American species manager, Alltech

More than 1,200 people tuned in to watch these specialists dissect the data and analyze how feed production numbers reflect global trends.

How does animal feed production echo consumer trends?

The feed industry is at the very beginning of the food chain. The amount of compound feed (the grains fed to animals) grown in each country indicates what people there consume. The hype around current food trends might indicate that people are losing interest in animal protein, citing concerns over climate change or animal agriculture production practices. Whether consumers are truly seeking animal protein alternatives or not, however, is revealed by determining the number of animals being consumed and, therefore, how much feed is grown to produce those animals.

The feed survey actually indicated that the global consumption of meat is on the rise.* “Consumers are making more and more demands on [agriculture], one of them being alternative proteins,” Lyons said. “However, the impact may not be as strong as we once believed.”

Not everyone is eating soybeans and seaweed

As the results of Alltech’s annual animal feed survey revealed, if people are seeking alternative sources of protein, it’s not to the extent that the media hype might indicate. If anything, feed production for chicken, beef, milk and eggs is increasing, which means that people are still consuming those foods — and at a higher rate. Demand is on the rise, and countries that are developing and increasing in wealth are seeking more animal-based foods, including meat, milk and eggs. In countries where there is already a strong demand for meat and animal products, the idea that the population is making a major shift continues to circulate — but so far, that isn’t actually the case.

There are challenges associated with plant-based diets, such as ensuring that the body gets all the essential amino acids it needs. Some grains and legumes can serve as supplements, but they do not have the same level of bioavailability as meat. Consuming meat, milk and eggs is one way to guarantee that the body gets complete proteins. Despite claiming interest in alternative diets, nutrition is still a concern for many. As Martins explained, “Income is increasing in emerging markets, but people still aren’t eating well. It’s not enough to (just) feed people; the nutritional value must be there.”

Many meat substitutes also contain an array of mixed ingredients in order to appeal to the senses the way meat does: through taste, smell, texture, sight and sound. These additives, however, don’t appeal to the clean-label requests of many shoppers, who much prefer the one-ingredient label of traditional meats. Additionally, consider high-protein diets, such as keto and paleo, many of which rely heavily on animal protein for sustenance.

According to the 2020 Alltech Global Feed Survey, the need for animal protein as a food source is growing and will continue to grow, particularly in the poultry sector. In reference to African swine fever (ASF), which has decimated the pig populations of Asia-Pacific and Europe, Smith said, “The events of the past 18 months are moving us closer to the crossover point, where the world will consume more poultry (than pork).”

Eating plants won’t save the planet

Consumers often cite environmental concerns as one of the main reasons they prefer a plant-based diet. Unfortunately, two-thirds of agricultural land, also known as marginal land, is unusable for crop production; it is either too dry or the soil quality is poor. This land is, however, perfect for ruminant livestock animals, who can digest roughage and convert it into something humans are able to digest: meat and milk.

Conventional agriculture has gotten a bad reputation for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, but what is often overlooked is the opportunity agriculture has to help alleviate not only its own emissions but, potentially, emissions from other industries as well. That’s right — farmers could effectively have a positive impact on GHG emissions. (If you want to learn more about this, check out our blogs on methane digesters and silvopasture, a natural approach to raising cattle in forested pastureland.)

If all 7.5 billion people on this planet decided to only consume plants, it would be very difficult to farm enough crops to provide everyone with a nutritionally balanced diet. Animals provide a way to turn the nutrients from our earth into something our bodies can use very effectively.

Technology to the rescue!

Advanced technology in agriculture (known as ag-tech) is also improving efficiencies in production by allowing farmers to use real-time data to maximize production, improve animal welfare, reduce waste and more. Precision agriculture allows farmers — including growers and producers of feed ingredients, such as corn and soybeans — to produce more with less.

We are currently producing 60% more milk with less than half as many cows as we once did, and this evolution has taken place over the span of just one generation. In the last 70 years, we have significantly improved feed efficiencies by gaining a better understanding of how the animal operates biologically, what type of nutrients it needs and how those nutrients are best absorbed by the body.

The Alltech Global Feed Survey shows us that the animal agriculture industry is strong and growing. Improved agricultural practices and technological advancements put agriculture and food production in a positive light. It’s not all doom and gloom — but “the messaging to consumers is very important,” as Lawless said.

There is clearly a disconnect between the potential of agriculture and the understanding of consumers, who are increasingly less knowledgeable about where their food comes from or how it is produced. “Consumers have never cared more, or known less, about where their food comes from,” said Bobo. Consumers are certainly keen to learn more about food production, and it is up to agriculture to tell the story.

*There was a decrease in overall feed production in 2019, but this was largely a result of African swine fever, a viral disease that is decimating the pig population, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Europe. All other indications for animal feed production show increases in production.

References

Butler, D. June 25, 2019. “Frank Mitloehner: Cattle, climate change and the methane myth.” AgFuture podcast. https://www.alltech.com/features-podcast-blog/frank-mitloehner-cattle-climate-change-and-methane-myth

Herrero, M., Henderson, B., Havlík, P. et al. Greenhouse gas mitigation potentials in the livestock sector. Nature Clim Change 6, 452–461 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1038/nclimate2925

Like us, our dogs are now living longer than ever, thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, nutrition and overall care. However, this longevity comes at a price, as it only increases the chances for your canine companion to develop a common form of arthritis known as degenerative joint disease (DJD) or osteoarthritis.

What is DJD and why do dogs get it?

Again, much like we humans, our pets’ joint tissues often begin to deteriorate with age. This process is commonly gradual and affects the smooth layer of cartilage known as articular cartilage that is found at the ends of bones in one or more joints. Articular cartilage plays a key role in reducing friction within joints and allowing them to move smoothly. The breakdown of this protective cushion often leads to pain, inflammation and a decreased range of motion. While any joint can be affected, DJD often compromises a dog’s lower back and limbs.

Of course, some dogs are at an increased risk for developing this ailment, including large or giant breeds, due to their general size and weight placing more mechanical stress on their joints, as well as those who compete in high-impact sports, such as agility, dock diving or flyball. Poor nutrition, conformation and genetics are other potential factors. DJD can also develop as the result of a bone or joint injury or in connection to the stress of extra weight on joints in overweight or obese dogs. This is just one more reason why it is vitally important to keep your dog at a healthy body weight at all stages of life.

What are some signs of canine osteoarthritis?

A lasting vestige of their wild origins, dogs often instinctively hide their pain until it becomes severe, as showing signs of weakness would have made their ancestors vulnerable to potential predation. An obviously lame dog may be in potentially serious pain, which could be a sign that the DJD has reached an advanced stage. It is, therefore, especially important to monitor aging canines and those with a possible predisposition for subtle early warning signs, such as:

• Stiffness — often noticeable as your dog moves from a lying to standing position
• Lethargy — you may suddenly realize that your dog is sleeping a lot more than usual
• Irritability, especially in response to being touched in certain areas
• Inability or reluctance to jump into the car or onto furniture
• Hesitance or refusal to take stairs
• Decreased interest in activities such as walks or playtime

If you suspect that your dog might be suffering from arthritic pain, schedule an exam with your vet in order to obtain a definitive diagnosis and to formulate a plan for treatment.

What are the treatment and management recommendations?

Unfortunately, DJD is a progressive condition with no known cure. Treatment goals should include providing pain relief, fostering an improved quality of life and being as proactive as possible in delaying any further progression of this ailment. If you have a dog with arthritis, your vet may prescribe or recommend anti-inflammatory drugs, pain-relieving medications and/or joint supplements, which often contain glucosamine, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), hyaluronic acid (HA) or chondroitin sulfate. For more advanced cases of this disease, an injectable, disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug (such as Adequan^®) that has been designed to inhibit cartilage loss in a dog’s joints may be recommended. Alternative therapies — including acupuncture, laser therapy, aqua therapy, chiropractic adjustment and massage for dogs with arthritis — are also an option and may be used in conjunction with medication. In more severe cases, surgery to remove damaged joint tissue or to replace the joint entirely may be required.

Weight control is by far the most critical aspect of managing DJD. At an ideal body weight, you should be able to feel your dog’s ribs easily but not see them, and you should be able to see a visible waist when looking at your dog from above and a tucked-up belly when viewing your dog from the side. If you suspect that your dog needs to lose some weight, consult with your veterinarian about putting together a diet plan.

You may also find it best to modify your dog’s activity levels, perhaps retiring from high-impact events like agility or flyball and replacing them with more controlled activities, such as regular on-leash walks. It is important to keep your dog moving, even if it’s at a slower pace than what you both might be used to, as consistent low-impact exercise serves to maintain the tone of muscles that promote joint stability and helps to combat overall stiffness.

You may want to place an orthopedic dog bed or two around the house (away from cold or damp areas) to help alleviate joint pressure as your pet rests. You may also provide carpeted steps or a ramp to help your pet get up onto or down from higher resting spots, such as the bed or couch. Many owners might also wish to place additional non-skid runner rugs throughout the home to help their arthritic dogs navigate slippery footing more easily.

Fortunately, dogs often live comfortably for years following a DJD diagnosis, so long as proactive steps are taken to manage this condition.

I want to learn more about pet health and nutrition.

Spring is often accompanied by warmer temperatures, excess moisture and the reemergence of biting insects. While the more moderate weather can often feel like a welcome relief — especially after a long, cold winter — this aptly monikered “mud season” can wreak havoc on a horse’s skin and coat. Conditions like rain rot, scratches, sweet itch and hives are more than just unsightly and uncomfortable — they can also have a significant impact on your riding and training time.

Of course, we all know that horses are naturally sensitive beings and that skin problems are never 100% avoidable. Attention to proper grooming, nutrition, supplements and veterinary care can make a big difference, but we should all be prepared to recognize and treat these issues when they manifest. Let’s explore four of the most common ailments, as well as some recommended treatments and steps you can take to help keep them at bay.

Rain rot in horses

• What causes it? As the common nickname for this pesky dermatological disease implies, rain rot is brought on by a combination of moisture and the presence of a bacterium called Dermatophilus congolensis. Every horse is susceptible to this condition, which is generally associated with warm, wet weather. Broken skin, either from bug bites or cuts, allows the bacteria in. Excess moisture also plays a significant role because it strips the skin of natural oils that otherwise serve as protection from bacteria.
• How do I identify it? If your horse has rain rot, you’ll notice scab-like bumps, particularly along the top of the head, neck, back and/or croup. When pulled, the hair will easily come away from the body, leaving behind an infected, hairless spot of skin. These lesions are commonly itchy or painful.
• Is it contagious? Yes, rain rot can easily spread from one horse to another. As such, it’s important to not share brushes, blankets or tack, and to make sure these items are regularly cleaned.
• How do I treat it? While often mistaken for a fungal disease like ringworm — which is, thankfully, far less common — this bacterial condition will not be affected by antifungal medication. Bathing the horse with an antibacterial shampoo, removing the scabs once they have softened and following up with a topical antibacterial treatment can prove effective.
• How do I prevent it? Groom your animals daily and clean your brushes often. You should also take several environmental factors into consideration. Shelters are great in theory, but how many times have you witnessed a horse standing outside of a shelter during inclement weather? As horse owners know, equines are sadly not always concerned about self-preservation! If it’s raining, provide a protective waterproof sheet (which must also be regularly cleaned, especially if your horse is symptomatic) or leave your horse in a stall for the day instead.

Scratches in horses

• What causes it? Also known as mud fever or pastern dermatitis, this condition is often produced by a mixture of bacteria that commonly includes Dermatophilus congolensis, Staphylococcus spp and/or fungal organisms known as dermatophytes. It may also be caused by parasites. These organisms find their way into breaks or openings on the horse’s skin, and the prime conditions during which they are likely to appear include consistent exposure to an excessively moist or dirty environment. As with rain rot, every horse is susceptible to scratches; however, those with feathers or long fetlock hair that retains moisture seem to be particularly vulnerable. Horses with white legs may also be more at risk, since unpigmented skin is more susceptible to sun damage, chafing and abrasions.
• How do I identify it? Early symptoms often include swollen skin and small, scab-like bumps. If allowed to progress, you’ll notice scabby crusts forming on the back of the pastern, which often appear in a line that looks like — you guessed it — a scratch. Although scratches most often impact the hind legs, horses may get it on their front legs as well.
• Is it contagious? Yes, this is also an easily transmissible disorder. Do not share boots or grooming supplies, and practice good hand hygiene, especially after coming into contact with the infected area.
• How do I treat it? Carefully clip the hair away from the affected area and gently wash it with an antibacterial or antifungal shampoo. Begin by doing this once daily for the first 7–10 days and cut back to two or three times per week until the issue is remedied. Let the shampoo sit for approximately 10 minutes before rinsing. Scabs can be massaged off gently, but you should not pull or pick at them. Carefully pat the area dry with a clean towel before applying a topical antibiotic or antifungal treatment. Keep your horse housed in a clean, dry environment.
• How do I prevent it? Keep footing as dry as possible, and get into the habit of drying your horse’s legs before you put them into their stall. Don’t share boots or wraps, and, if possible, keep feathers closely trimmed.

Sweet itch in horses

• What causes it? Also known as summer itch, this seasonal recurrent dermatitis is typically caused by an allergic reaction to Culicoides, a genus of biting midges. You may commonly hear these pests referred to as “no-see-ums” or gnats. Horses may also experience insect hypersensitivity in response to biting flies. This hypersensitivity is considered the most common allergy in horses and is a typical reason for itchy skin.
• How do I identify it? Horses with sweet itch often become very itchy in the spring and may rub out their mane and tail hair. You may also notice skin irritation or lesions along the topline, jaw, axillary regions and ventral midline.
• Is it contagious? No, but other horses on the property may also be susceptible to the negative effects of these biting insects.
• How do I treat it? Antihistamines, topical creams and insect repellents may be effective options and should be tried first before resorting to more serious measures, such as corticosteroid injections, which can have serious long-term side effects with prolonged use.
• How do I prevent it? Remove manure regularly and keep standing water in check. Use stall fans and fly gear, such as masks and boots, and keep in mind that “no-see-ums” prefer to begin feeding at dusk and overnight, so keep at-risk horses inside during these times.

Hives in horses

• What causes them? Many things can cause hives, including insect bites, pollens, food allergies, medications or direct contact with a variety of materials.
• How do I identify them? Also known as urticaria, hives are fluid-filled, raised swellings on a horse’s skin. Generally round in shape, these bumps may range in size from 0.5 to 8 inches wide. They may or may not be itchy and can develop anywhere on a horse’s body, though they most commonly appear on the neck, back, flank or leg area.
• Are they contagious? No, hives are not transmissible.
• How do I treat them? Fortunately, hives rarely impact the general health of a horse and often resolve on their own within 24–48 hours. In these cases, treatment is unnecessary. However, in more severe cases, you may wish to consult with your veterinarian on treatment options, such as antihistamines, epinephrine or corticosteroids.
• How do I prevent them? It can be difficult to determine the root cause of hives, but avoidance or the elimination of triggering factors can play a key role in keeping them from reoccurring in the future. This may involve some trial and error, but suggested steps include changing paddocks and bedding and eliminating supplements one at a time to determine whether they may have been a culprit in causing this allergic reaction.

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