Effect of clinoptilolite zeolite on feedlot performance and carcass characteristics in Holstein steers

In this experiment, 27 crossbred steers (average body weight 250 kg) were fed a diet with clinoptilolite (CLN), a natural zeolite, substituted at 0 be regarded as control, 2.5% as (T1) and 5% as (T2) of the diet dry matter. The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of natural zeolite on daily gain and carcass characteristics in Holstein steers. The experiment lasted for 210 days. Average daily gain of steers in T3 diets were highest (P<0.05) compare to control groups and T2 diets. Daily dry-matter intake for all the treatments diets was not significantly different. Hot carcass weight and dressing percentage in T3 was significant among others but lean cuts percentage and quality grade for all the treatments were not significant among each other.