Sodium Chloride and Soybeans in Feedlot Diets

Two trials were conducted to evaluate feeding sodium chloride salt (NaCl) and soybeans to feedlot cattle in summer and winter seasons. The treatments were 1) control; 2) 1% added salt; 3) 5% added whole soybeans; and 4) the combination of 1% added salt and 5% added whole soybeans. Added salt had a tendency to decrease dry matter intake and increase water intake. Additional salt and soybeans elevated tympanic temperatures. Treatment did not have an effect on performance, carcass quality grade, or dressing percentage