Texas FFA Livestock Judging PracticeTest

What is the term for the practice of feeding a special ration shortly before breeding?

1. Flushing

2. Grazing

3. Fattening

4. Supplementation

The correct answer is: Flushing

Flushing refers to the practice of feeding livestock a special ration just prior to breeding to enhance reproductive performance. This technique typically involves increasing the nutritional intake of female animals, such as ewes or cows, to stimulate estrus, improve ovulation rates, and encourage healthier offspring. The primary focus is on providing a diet that is higher in energy and nutrients, which can lead to better fertility outcomes. Grazing involves allowing animals to feed on pasture or forage, which is generally a more natural feeding practice but does not specifically target reproductive improvements. Fattening, on the other hand, often refers to the practice of increasing body weight and fat reserves, generally for market purposes rather than for breeding efficiency. Supplementation implies adding nutrients to a basic diet, but flushing specifically indicates the emphasis on enhancing breeding through targeted feeding strategies. Thus, flushing is uniquely designed for optimizing reproductive success through managed nutrition shortly before the breeding period.