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Veterinary Sciences
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Advancing Ruminant Health and Production: Alternatives to Antibiotics
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Advancing Ruminant Health and Production: Alternatives to Antibiotics

A special issue of Veterinary Sciences (ISSN 2306-7381).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 August 2025 | Viewed by 4780

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Sílvia Cristina de Aguiar

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Food Analysis and Animal Nutrition Laboratory, Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Pontes e Lacerda 78250000, MT, Brazil
Interests: antimicrobials; microbiology; plant extracts; ruminant nutrition
Prof. Dr. Solange Maria Cottica

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Chemical Process Technology, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná (UTFPR), Toledo 85902490, PR, Brazil
Interests: agro-industrial waste; antioxidants; bioactive compounds; feed

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Ruminants play a crucial role in human nutrition by producing meat and milk. However, the increasing concern over antibiotic resistance has led to significant changes in livestock production practices. The reduction in antibiotic use in animal husbandry has necessitated the development of specific nutritional and health programs aimed at enhancing productive performance, improving animal health, and minimizing environmental impact while meeting nutritional requirements.

Modern challenges in ruminant production include identifying viable alternatives to conventional antibiotic growth promoters, feed additives, and medications to ensure greater food safety and quality. Consequently, numerous studies have been conducted to develop these alternatives.

This Special Issue aims to compile research that focuses on innovative strategies to enhance ruminant health and production. We seek contributions related to the following:

- Housing improvements: innovative designs and management practices to promote animal welfare and productivity.

- Management systems: effective management practices that reduce disease incidence and enhance overall herd health.

- Feed utilization and production: development and optimization of feed additives, including probiotics, prebiotics, and other dietary supplements, to improve digestive health and productivity.

- Therapeutic and prophylactic alternatives: novel therapeutic approaches and prophylactic measures, including plant-based treatments, vaccines, and immunomodulators, that can replace antibiotics.

We eagerly invite researchers, industry experts, and practitioners to contribute their findings to this Special Issue. Through collaborative efforts and cutting-edge research, we aim to provide comprehensive insights and practical solutions to advance ruminant health and production without relying on antibiotics.

Prof. Dr. Sílvia Cristina de Aguiar
Prof. Dr. Solange Maria Cottica
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Veterinary Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2100 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • antimicrobial resistance
  • food safety
  • natural products
  • livestock
  • production enhancers

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

14 pages, 418 KiB  
Article
Evaluating a Proprietary Tannin-Blend Product as an Alternative to Monensin and Tylosin Phosphate in Feedlot Cattle Diets
by Luana D. Felizari, Luke K. Fuerniss, Jonathan L. Beckett, David S. Secrist, Guy D. Hufstedler and Bradley J. Johnson
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 446; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050446 - 6 May 2025
Abstract
This study evaluates the effects of a proprietary tannin blend (BX), supplemented with or without sodium monensin (MON), on beef cattle performance, carcass traits, and health. Steers (n = 2986; initial shrunk body weight (SBW) 254 ± 9.2 kg) were allocated into [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the effects of a proprietary tannin blend (BX), supplemented with or without sodium monensin (MON), on beef cattle performance, carcass traits, and health. Steers (n = 2986; initial shrunk body weight (SBW) 254 ± 9.2 kg) were allocated into 48 pens (61–62 steers/pen; 12 pens/treatment) fed for 230 d. Treatments included: (1) no feed additives (CTL); (2) BX (7.95 g/animal daily); (3) MON + Tylosin phosphate (TYL; 437.52 mg MON/animal daily + 80 mg TYL/animal daily); or (4) MON + BX (437.52 mg MON/animal daily + 7.95 g BX/animal daily). Data were analyzed in R 4.2.1 using a randomized block design with pen as the experimental unit. Dry matter intake was lower (p < 0.001) in MON + TYL and MON + BX than in CTL. Steers fed MON + BX had greater carcass-adjusted final SBW (p = 0.002), average daily gain (p = 0.002), fat thickness (p = 0.035), and marbling score (p = 0.046) than BX. Feed conversion improved in MON + TYL and MON + BX (p < 0.001). CLT and BX had higher (p < 0.001) liver abscess prevalence compared to MON + BX and MON + TYL. The addition of BX did not improve the parameters measured. Steers fed MON + BX showed reduced liver abscesses and similar feed efficiency compared to MON + TYL. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Ruminant Health and Production: Alternatives to Antibiotics)
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20 pages, 979 KiB  
Article
Role of Microencapsulated Essential Oil and Pepper Resin in the Diet of Cows in the Third Lactation Phase on Immunological Pathways
by Karoline Wagner Leal, Marta Lizandra do Rego Leal, Gabriel S. Klein, Andrei Lucas R. Brunetto, Guilherme Luiz Deolindo, Camila Eduarda Justen, Matheus Dellaméa Baldissera, Tainara L. Santos, Daniela Zanini, Rafael C. de Araujo and Aleksandro Schafer da Silva
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(4), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12040344 - 8 Apr 2025
Viewed by 426
Abstract
The objective was to determine whether dairy cows may activate traditional and alternative inflammatory pathways by consuming a combination of a phytogenic diet (essential oil and pepper resin). Twenty pregnant Jersey cows in the final (third) lactation phase (260 days in milk) were [...] Read more.
The objective was to determine whether dairy cows may activate traditional and alternative inflammatory pathways by consuming a combination of a phytogenic diet (essential oil and pepper resin). Twenty pregnant Jersey cows in the final (third) lactation phase (260 days in milk) were divided into two groups: control, with no additive consumption, and test, with the addition of the phytogenic to the concentrate portion of the diet (150 mg/day/kg dry matter). Blood samples were collected on experimental days 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42 by coccygeal vein puncture to assess the complete blood count, serum biochemistry of levels of total protein, albumin, and globulin, as well as carbohydrate metabolism (glucose), lipid metabolism (cholesterol and triglycerides), protein metabolism (urea), activities of hepatic enzymes (gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)), cytokine levels (interleukins IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10), antioxidant response [thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), reactive oxygen species (ROS), total thiol (PSH), and non-protein thiol (NPSH), and glutathione S(GST)], cholinergic system [total cholinesterase (ChE) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE)], purinergic signaling [NTPDase, 5′ectonucleotidase and adenosine deaminase (ADA)], and energetic metabolism enzymes [creatine kinase (CK), pyruvate kinase (PK), and adenylate kinase (AK)]. Productive performance was assessed through feed intake and milk production. The results revealed that the use of phytogenic compounds significantly influenced the cholinergic system and purinergic signaling associated with immunology. The reduction in cholinesterase (ChE) activity and the increase in acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in lymphocytes suggest the modulation of the cholinergic system, enhancing the immune response. Furthermore, the elevated activity of adenosine deaminase (ADA) in lymphocytes and platelets, together with increased ATP and ADP hydrolysis in platelets, indicates the beneficial regulation of purinergic signaling, potentially contributing to inflammatory modulation. These effects were accompanied by a lower production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6) and a higher production of IL-10, reinforcing an anti-inflammatory profile. The reduced leukocyte and lymphocyte counts may reflect a lower inflammatory demand, while the increased levels of NPSH and GST antioxidants suggest cellular protection. Despite these physiological changes, productive performance and milk quality remained unaffected. In summary and practical terms, including this additive in the cows’ diet benefits the cow’s health in the final third of gestation when the animal already has a reduced immune response due to advanced gestation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Ruminant Health and Production: Alternatives to Antibiotics)
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13 pages, 458 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant Activity, Phenolic Acid, and Flavonoid Composition of an Antiseptic Ointment Based on Aloe and Green Propolis and Its Potential for Preventing Mastitis in Dairy Cows
by Sílvia Cristina de Aguiar, Solange Maria Cottica, Silvério Teixeira dos Santos, Juliana Maxiano da Fonseca, Luiza da Silva Leite and Mylena Leite da Silva
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(3), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12030248 - 5 Mar 2025
Viewed by 718
Abstract
Mastitis is a major challenge in dairy production, leading to decreased milk yield and quality due to increased somatic cell counts (SCCs). The overuse of antibiotics to treat this condition has raised concerns about antimicrobial resistance, prompting the search for alternative treatments. This [...] Read more.
Mastitis is a major challenge in dairy production, leading to decreased milk yield and quality due to increased somatic cell counts (SCCs). The overuse of antibiotics to treat this condition has raised concerns about antimicrobial resistance, prompting the search for alternative treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity, phenolic acid, and flavonoid content of a natural antiseptic ointment based on green propolis and aloe vera. The phenolic and flavonoid composition was determined using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography, revealing high concentrations of bioactive compounds, particularly in the green propolis extract. The antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH method, and the ointment was applied as a post-dipping treatment in dairy cows. Over a 56-day period, the SCC in cows treated with the ointment showed a significant reduction (p = 0.021) compared to the control group (1.94 and 2.21 log10 SCC/mL, respectively). These findings indicate that the combination of green propolis and aloe vera possesses promising antimicrobial and healing properties, making it an effective alternative for mastitis prevention in dairy cows. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Ruminant Health and Production: Alternatives to Antibiotics)
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17 pages, 472 KiB  
Article
Replacement of Monensin with a Proprietary Tannin-Blend Additive in Calf-Fed Holstein Steer Diets
by Sydney M. Bowman-Schnug, Luke K. Fuerniss, Joe D. Cameron, Jonathon L. Beckett, Muhammad Ahsin, Stephan van Vliet, Guy D. Hufstedler and Bradley J. Johnson
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(2), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12020166 - 13 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1109
Abstract
The discussion of antimicrobial resistance has begun to impact consumer preference and influence the implementation of certain growth-promoting technologies in the cattle feeding industry [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Ruminant Health and Production: Alternatives to Antibiotics)
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16 pages, 1200 KiB  
Article
Effect of Isolation Ruminal Yeast from Ruminants on In Vitro Ruminal Fermentation
by Krung Wilachai, Pramote Paengkoum, Nittaya Taethaisong, Pirat Thitisak, Kriengsak Poonsuk, Juan J. Loor and Siwaporn Paengkoum
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(2), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12020155 - 11 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 802
Abstract
In order to obtain high-performing yeast strains from ruminants, it is necessary to select them from species such as beef cattle, dairy cows, goats, and buffalo. A total of 91 isolated yeasts were collected using the standard methods of microbial culture on agar [...] Read more.
In order to obtain high-performing yeast strains from ruminants, it is necessary to select them from species such as beef cattle, dairy cows, goats, and buffalo. A total of 91 isolated yeasts were collected using the standard methods of microbial culture on agar medium followed by streaking on a plate at least three times until pure yeast colonies were formed. The API 20C AUX Kit and sequencing of the D1/D2 domain of the 26S rRNA gene were used to identify the genera Candida spp., namely, C. glabrata (99% identification), C. tropicallis (99%), C. rugosa (98%), and Issatchenkia orientalis (99%). A total of 12 yeast strains (Dc4, 14, 18; Be1, 2, 7; Bu3, 4, 7; and Go10, 16, 19) were chosen for further analyses. The performance criteria included the ability to tolerate pH values between 3.5 and 7.5, total volatile fatty acids (TVFAs, 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, and 4% of broth medium), anaerobic growth rate, and in vitro gas production efficiency. First, when all strains were grown at pH values between 3.5 and 7.5, Bu3 and Dc18 performed better than the other strains. Second, at a ruminal pH of 6.5 and a TVFA concentration of between 2 and 4% of the broth medium, strain Bu3 was more resistant than the other strains. Under anaerobic conditions, all strains experienced a decline in viable cell counts when compared with those under aerobic conditions. However, compared to strains Dc14, Be1, Be2, Be7, and Bu3, strain Dc18 exhibited more viable cells under anaerobic conditions in broth medium. The response of strain Dc18 did not differ from those of strains Dc4, Bu4, Bu7, or G16. Strains Be7, Bu3, and Dc18 were used for an in vitro fermentation experiment involving incubation for 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h. Three ruminal cannulated dairy cows were used as donors of ruminal fluid. The treatments were run in triplicate. The addition of yeast culture had no effect on gas kinetics, gas accumulation, or the ratio of acetic acid and propionic acid, but led to significantly greater butyric acid concentrations at 24 h of incubation. In conclusion, strain Dc18 isolated from dairy cows is suitable for future studies of probiotic yeast development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Ruminant Health and Production: Alternatives to Antibiotics)
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14 pages, 1516 KiB  
Article
Effect of an Ultra-Diluted Complex on Health, Growth Performance, and Blood Parameters of Pre-Weaned Dairy Calves
by Mellory M. Martins, Thiago H. da Silva, Andre S. V. Palma, Bruna L. de Noronha, Emanuel R. Lemos, Iuli C. S. B. Guimarães, Nara. R. B. Cônsolo and Arlindo S. Netto
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(2), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12020128 - 5 Feb 2025
Viewed by 837
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an ultra-diluted complex on the health status, growth performance, and blood parameters of dairy calves during the preweaning phase in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. During a 75-period trial, thirty-four Holstein newborn calves at the second [...] Read more.
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an ultra-diluted complex on the health status, growth performance, and blood parameters of dairy calves during the preweaning phase in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. During a 75-period trial, thirty-four Holstein newborn calves at the second day of life were completely randomized individually into two treatments: (1) control (CON), oral saline supplementation (5 mL/d); and (2) oral supplementation with 5 mL/d of a ultra-diluted complex (UD): Sulfur: 1060 + Viola tricolor: 1014 + Caladium seguinum: 1030 + Zincum oxydatum: 1030 + Phosphorus: 1060 + Cardus marianus: 1060 + Colibacillinum: 1030 + Podophyllum: 1030 + Vehicle: alcohol. Free access to water and a starter was ensured during the trial period. Feed intake and fecal and health scores were monitored daily. Calves were weighed and measured weekly. Blood samples were collected at enrollment on the first day and every 21 days until the 75th day, 2 h after morning milk feeding, and tested for hematology, blood urea nitrogen, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, total protein albumin, globulin, and creatinine. At 70 days of age, calves were disbudded following the standard management practices of the farm. The inflammatory profile, including Immunoglobulin A, Immunoglobulin G, ceruloplasmin, transferrin, albumin, and haptoglobin, was quantified in serum samples. The ultra-diluted complex was ineffective in reducing the incidence of diseases, starter feed intake, daily weight gain, and body measurements and inflammatory profile. Blood parameters were also not affected. Thus, the ultra-diluted complex was inefficient in reducing the incidence of diseases and did not affect the performance and metabolites of pre-weaned Holstein calves. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Ruminant Health and Production: Alternatives to Antibiotics)
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