The Effect of Thiouracil on the Growth and Fattening of Yearling Steers

Abstract

Thiouracil intakes of 2.0 to 6.0 gm. per steer per day did not depress the rate of growth of yearling steers, and the rate of gain appeared to be slightly increased in the groups receiving 2.0 and 4.0 gm. thiouracil daily. Feed consumption was not influenced by the addition of 2.0 and 6.0 gm. of thiouracil to the daily ration of the steers. Efficiency of feed utilization was not significantly affected by thiouracil but there was a tendency for the steers receiving 2.0 to 4.0 gm. thiouracil to require less feed per pound of gain. Thyroid weight was significantly increased by the ingestion of 4.0 gm. thiouracil daily. Dressing percentage and degree of finish were not significantly effected by thiouracil but there was a tendency for improvement of both of these characteristics by the drug.