Final answer:
When cattle are fed a finishing diet in a feedlot, side effects on their health can include acidosis and liver abscesses. These symptoms can be managed by ensuring a balanced diet, monitoring the cattle closely, and making necessary adjustments.
Step-by-step explanation:
When cattle are fed a finishing diet in a feedlot, there can be several side effects on their health. One common side effect is a condition called acidosis, which occurs when the pH in the rumen of the cattle becomes too acidic due to the high concentration of grains in the diet. This can lead to reduced feed intake, weight loss, and diarrhea. Another side effect is liver abscesses, which can be caused by the high-energy diet and can result in reduced productivity and increased mortality.
To manage these symptoms, it is important to ensure a balanced finishing diet to prevent acidosis. This can be done by gradually introducing the high-energy diet and providing adequate roughage to maintain a healthy rumen pH. Additionally, regular health checks and proper vaccination protocols can help prevent liver abscesses. It is crucial to monitor the cattle closely and make any necessary adjustments to the diet and management practices to minimize the side effects and maintain the health of the cattle.