| Growth promoting
implants are compressed pellets or slow release
devices that are placed under the skin of the ear.
They have been used throughout the U.S. for more than
a quarter of a century to improve rate of gain and
feed efficiency in commercial beef cattle.
Research trials have shown that proper use of implants
returns at least $10 for each $1 invested.
To a great extent, animal growth is regulated by
the pituritary gland and its secretions of growth or
somatotrophic hormone. Implants increase (via
the pituitary gland) growth hormone and insulin at teh
cellular level, resulting in increased synthesis of
muscle tissue, and frequently, reduced deposition of
body fat. The result is usually increased growth
rate and improved feed efficiency.
Implant
Use
Only
Synovex-C, Component E-C, and Ralgro are approved for
use in heifer calves that may be retained for breeding
purposes. Implants should not be used in bulls
because they can severely reduce reproductive
performance.
Implants improve both rate and efficiency of weight
gain (Table 1). The response is greater in
animals which have genetic potential and proper
management to gain weight rapidly. Therefore,
implants will complement sound breeding, feeding, and
management programs, but the use of implants will not
compensate for poor management.
Table1.
Estimated Response to Implants
| |
Expected |
Improvement |
| Class of Cattle |
Gain |
Feed Efficiency |
| Suckling calves |
4-8% |
|
| Growing cattle |
10-20% |
6-8% |
| Finishing cattle |
6-12% |
8-10% |
Calves should be implanted two or more times during
the growth period. Maximum benefit is obtained
by having an approved, viable growth implant in cattle
for most (or all) of their life from birth to
harvest.
Growth implants currently approved for use in beef
cattle are shown in Table 2. They are readily
available, safe and designed to release growth
stimulant slowly over a designated period of time.
Precautions
Although
the implanting technique is simple, it must be done
properly to obtain the greatest response and avoid
undesirable side effects.
Changes
in FDA regulations governing the use of implants have
frequently occurred. Therefore, always read the
instructions and follow manufacturer's recommendations
on the use of the product. Be especially careful
to follow recommendations on correct implant usage,
implant replacement, and implanting technique.
Table
2. Approved Implants and Their Usefulness for
Various Classes of Beef Cattle
| 