Effects of nutrient restriction on liver and small intestine energy use in pregnant beef cows

摘要

The extensive use of grazing systems for beef cattle and the high variation in forage quality throughout the year has an important impact on production. Changes in forage quality and availability alter the nutritional and physiological status of cowsduring gestation. Nutrient restriction during this crucial time plays a large role on cow weight change and on fetal growth and development. The objectives were to determine how nutrient restriction and realimentation during gestation influences energy utilization and oxygen consumption of intestinal and liver tissues of the cow and the developing fetus.