To date, there are no published data in which performance comparisons have been made between open feedlots and the various types of bedded facilities. However, comparison of open-lot and total confinement, slatted units have been made, and, in general, there is very little difference in daily gain between these units, but feed efficiency is improved 1 to 3% for cattle fed in total confinement. Semi- or partial confinement units have been shown to improve gains and feed efficiencies up to 5% over open-lot facilities. However, the costs of the semi-confinement units are approximately double the costs of building open-lot units, while the bedded units cost two to three times that of open-lot units to build. From a performance standpoint, cattle fed in the bedded units would need to have nearly a 10% better gain and feed efficiency on a year-round basis for it to be cost effective. However, in situations where the cost of building satisfactory animal waste collection units is prohibitive or pen space and/or slope is limited for effective open-lot design, then the partial confinement or bedded facility may be cost effective.

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