Abstract

This study investigates the impact of administering ractopamine hydrochloride on the growth performance and responses to handling in heavyweight livestock. Ractopamine hydrochloride is commonly used as a feed additive to promote lean muscle growth in animals intended for meat production. However, its effects on animal welfare and stress responses during handling and transportation are of concern. Through a series of controlled experiments, we assessed the growth rates of heavyweight livestock supplemented with ractopamine hydrochloride and evaluated their reactions to handling and transport conditions. Our findings suggest that while ractopamine hydrochloride may enhance growth performance in heavy livestock, it may also influence their responses to handling, potentially affecting animal welfare during transportation. These results highlight the need for further research and careful consideration of the use of ractopamine hydrochloride in livestock production systems.