Different Supplements for Steers Consuming Low-Quality Forage1

Abstract Feed intake, digestion, and live weight gain in growing cattle consuming low-quality forage with or without different types of energy supplements were determined. Six Holstein steers (161 ± 4.4 kg and 118 ± 4.1 kg initial BW) consumed orchardgrass hay without an energy supplement (control) or with (DM basis) ground corn (.75% BW) plus monensin (1 mg/kg BW; CM) or soybean hulls (1.05% BW; H). All steers received a basal protein supplement. Intakes of DM and digestible organic matter were increased ( P P P P P P