Events such as weaning, transportation, feedlot arrival, and castration can cause significant stress in beef cattle, negatively affecting feed intake, immune function, weight gain, and overall performance. A growing body of research demonstrates that FerAppease® Bovine, a synthetic analogue of the natural Maternal Bovine Appeasing Substance (mBAS), can help cattle better cope with these challenges and maintain productivity during critical periods.

FerAppease Bovine works by mimicking a naturally occurring substance produced by cows after calving that promotes a sense of security in calves. It actively suppresses the production of cortisol and adrenaline in the brain. The effect is an immediate reduction in the animal’s perception of stress, allowing more energy to be directed toward health, adaptation, and growth.

At SSMC, we place a strong emphasis on science-based research and proven product performance. Our commitment is to provide customers with technology solutions supported by scientific evidence and measurable results under practical field conditions. Below, we highlight key findings from some published research demonstrating the benefits of FerAppease Bovine across different production and management situations.

Improved Performance Following Weaning
In a recent study evaluating beef heifers at weaning, animals treated with FerAppease Bovine adapted more effectively to the feedlot environment. After just 28 days, treated heifers were 27.1 lb heavier, achieved 27.8% greater average daily gain, and demonstrated improved feed efficiency compared with untreated controls, despite consuming similar amounts of feed. Treated animals also spent more time ruminating, a positive indicator of digestive health and successful adaptation to the new environment.

Reduced Stress and Improved Health Outcomes
The benefits of FerAppease extend beyond growth performance. Research conducted in high-risk receiving cattle demonstrated that the product reduced physiological indicators of stress and improved health outcomes during the receiving period. Treated cattle exhibited lower cortisol concentrations, greater total live weight gain, and reduced mortality among animals affected by bovine respiratory disease (BRD).

In that study, BRD-related mortality was reduced from 17.6% to 2.94%, while total pen liveweight gain increased from 682 lb to 1,098 lb. These results highlight the potential value in supporting both animal health and productivity during one of the most challenging phases of the production cycle.

Benefits During Stressful Management Procedures
Research has also evaluated the use of FerAppease Bovine during common management procedures such as castration. In a study involving feedlot bulls, treated animals exhibited lower stress levels, fewer pain-related behaviors, reduced incidence of respiratory disease, and improved behavioral recovery following castration.

These findings reinforce the role of FerAppease Bovine as a practical management tool that can support animal welfare while helping maintain performance during stressful procedures.

A Science-Based Solution for Modern Beef Production
With positive results reported in more than 16 scientific publications and multiple independent studies, FerAppease Bovine continues to build confidence among producers seeking effective stress-management solutions. While responses may vary according to the specific situation, management practices, and production system, both scientific research and field experience consistently support its value in helping cattle better cope with stress and maintain performance.

To learn more about FerAppease Bovine click here.

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Ana Carolina Rodrigues is the SSMC Animal Products Manager. Ana Carolina earned a bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine and a master’s degree in management and innovation in animal science from São Paulo State University and University of São Paulo in Brazil, respectively. She has extensive experience in the nutrition, animal health, and genetics sectors. Her knowledge bridges the highly technical aspects of the science behind our products with the common-sense application necessary on today’s progressive operations.

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References

Gellatly, D., Lei, Y., Neale, A., Smith, L., Edgar, E., Bloomfield, B., Elliot, B., Wenger, I., & Thompson, S. (2025).
Impacts of maternal bovine appeasing substance administered at weaning on behavioral and physiological adaptation of beef heifers to the feedlot. Animals, 15(19), 2788. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15192788

Pickett, A. T., Cooke, R. F., de Souza, I. S., & Mackey, S. J. (2024).
Administering the maternal bovine appeasing substance improves overall productivity and health in high-risk cattle during a 60-d feedlot receiving period. Journal of Animal Science, 102, skae221. https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skae221

Zinicola, M., Cooke, R. F., Bollatti, J. M., & Andreola, R. (2026).
Maternal bovine appeasing substance administration at castration reduces stress, pain-related behavior, and respiratory disease in feedlot bulls. Translational Animal Science, 10, txag062. https://doi.org/10.1093/tas/txag062