How do I calculate the grain requirement for cattle?

Calculating grain requirements for cattle involves several factors, including the animal’s weight, stage of production (growth, maintenance, lactation), and the quality of available forage. A general guideline is that fattening cattle are usually fed 2.2 to 3.0 percent of their live weight daily. This amount varies depending on the concentrates in the ration and the desired fattening rate. For beef cows, the protein supplement and some grain are typically fed only to first-calf heifers or heavy milking cows.

How to Calculate Grain Requirements for Cattle?

To calculate the grain requirements, consider these steps:

1. Assess the Cattle’s Needs: Determine the animal’s weight and production stage.
2. Estimate Daily Intake: Calculate the daily feed intake as a percentage of body weight.
3. Balance the Ration: Ensure the diet includes adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals.

What Factors Influence Grain Requirements?

Several factors affect the amount of grain needed for cattle:

• Weight and Age: Larger and younger cattle need more feed.
• Production Stage: Lactating cows or growing cattle require more nutrients.
• Forage Quality: High-quality pasture may reduce the need for supplemental grain.
• Climate: Cold weather increases energy requirements.

What are Examples of Feed Rations for Cattle?

Different classes of cattle require different feed rations to meet their nutritional needs. Examples include:

• Fattening Cattle: A high-energy diet of grains and legumes, such as corn and soy, to maximize growth and weight gain.
• Beef Cows: Maintained on pasture and roughages with protein supplements and some grain for first-calf heifers or heavy milking cows.
• All Cattle: Require salt (sodium chloride) and a palatable source of both calcium and phosphorus, such as limestone and steamed bone meal.

What are the Best Types of Grain for Cattle?

The best grains for cattle include corn, sorghum, milo, wheat, barley, and oats. These grains are often mixed with high-protein oil meals, minerals, and vitamins to form a complete feed. Corn silage is also an excellent roughage for beef-cattle finishing because it produces heavy yields per acre at a low cost.

How Does the Use of Feedlots Impact Grain Requirements?

In feedlots, cattle are intensively managed in a relatively small area and fed primarily grains to maximize growth. This high-energy diet helps them reach slaughter weight more quickly. The conditions in feedlots, such as reduced foraging activity, also help lower stress and energy expenditure, maximizing profits.

Want to discover more about specific feeding strategies or nutritional requirements for different types of cattle?