UTILIZAÇÃO DE UREIA NA ALIMENTAÇÃO DE NOVILHAS DE CORTE

Abstract

Protein supplementation is essential for the optimal performance of beef heifers, particularly with regard to their muscle growth and the attainment of puberty. Urea is a non-protein nitrogen source widely used in livestock production due to its high availability and low cost. It is especially utilized during the dry season when the protein content in grass is low. Urea for livestock is provided in various supplement forms, such as urea-enriched mineral supplements, low- and high-consumption protein supplements with urea, and feed containing urea. Urea provides approximately 42% to 47% nitrogen in its composition; however, researchers work to balance the benefits and challenges of using urea in the diet of beef heifers. This study examines its effects on weight gain and digestibility. A literature review was conducted using sources such as Google Scholar and Scielo to evaluate both national and international articles related to the proposed topic.