If a steer is fed too much roughage relative to grain, how may its visual appearance change?

When a steer is fed an excessive amount of roughage compared to grain, it tends to accumulate fat in the abdominal area, leading to a heavy middled or paunchy appearance. Roughage is high in fiber and can cause the animal to fill up more on volume, but it is generally less energy-dense than grains. This imbalance restricts the steer’s energy intake, which can lead to a condition known as "rumen fill," where the stomach becomes distended. Visually, this results in a steer that appears thicker and carries more condition in its middle due to the excess fiber fermentation and gas production in the rumen, promoting this bloated look.

In contrast, the other outcomes suggested involve conditions that would not typically arise from an imbalance of roughage and grain. For instance, becoming thin usually results from malnutrition or inadequate feed intake rather than overfeeding roughage. Lethargy might occur, but it often involves other health issues or inadequate nutrition balance. A glossy coat is more indicative of a well-balanced diet that includes sufficient nutrients, particularly fats and proteins, which may be lacking if the diet is too high in roughage. Hence, the visual change towards a heavy middle or paunchiness is the most accurate