What substances are commonly added to a feed ration to help prevent or control diseases?

Antibiotics are commonly added to feed rations to help prevent or control diseases in livestock. They work by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria and reducing the incidence of infections in animals, which can lead to improved health and productivity. By incorporating antibiotics into the feed, farmers can help maintain a healthy microbial balance in the gastrointestinal tracts of animals, thus mitigating the risk of disease outbreaks.

While vitamins, minerals, and probiotics also play important roles in overall animal health and nutrition, they serve different purposes. Vitamins are essential for metabolic processes, minerals support various physiological functions, and probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that promote gut health. However, none of these directly target bacterial infections in the same manner as antibiotics do, making antibiotics a specific choice for disease prevention and control in feed rations.