Feeding cattle properly is essential to keeping them healthy and productive year-round. Corn is a popular energy-dense feed for cattle, but the amount and type you feed should vary between winter and summer. This is because the weather affects cattle’s energy needs and digestion. Let’s explore how to adjust corn feed for cattle during different seasons.
During the colder months, cattle need more energy to stay warm. The extra cold temperatures force their bodies to work harder to maintain body heat, so they require more calories. Corn is a great source of energy, which makes it an essential part of the winter diet.
As temperatures drop, cattle burn more energy to stay warm. This means you’ll need to increase the amount of corn in their feed to meet these higher energy demands. If cattle are grazing on hay or silage, consider supplementing their diet with extra corn to provide more energy.
In winter, you may need to increase corn by 10-15%, depending on how cold it gets and the condition of your cattle. Make sure to watch their body condition and adjust accordingly. Overfeeding can lead to excess weight gain.
Though corn increases energy, it's important to maintain roughage in the diet, such as hay or silage. This supports digestion and ensures that cattle get a balanced diet, preventing digestive issues.
In the summer, warmer weather means cattle don’t need as much energy to regulate their body temperature. They may also have access to fresh pasture, which can provide the necessary nutrients. This reduces their need for corn.
With the heat, cattle don’t require as much corn to stay warm. They may be able to get enough energy from grazing or from hay, so you can reduce their corn intake. Too much corn in the summer can lead to weight gain and digestive problems.
In summer, corn intake should be reduced. Focus more on providing fresh pasture and high-quality hay. Only supplement with corn if pasture availability is limited.
Hot weather can lead to dehydration, which affects digestion. Since corn is dry, ensure your cattle have constant access to fresh water, especially in the summer. This will help prevent digestive issues related to feeding dry feeds like corn.
Corn should never be the only feed. Always ensure your cattle have access to roughage, whether it’s hay, silage, or fresh pasture. This helps with digestion and provides necessary fiber.
When adjusting corn intake, do so gradually to prevent digestive upset. Sudden changes in feed can cause problems for cattle’s stomachs.
Monitor your cattle’s body condition regularly. If they’re too thin in winter or gaining too much weight in summer, it might be time to adjust the amount of corn they’re getting.
Adjusting corn feed for cattle based on the season is crucial for maintaining their health. In winter, increase corn intake to meet higher energy needs. In summer, reduce corn and focus on fresh pasture to prevent overfeeding. By making these adjustments and keeping an eye on your cattle’s condition, you can ensure they remain healthy and productive all year long.
For farmers looking for high-quality corn feed for their cattle, Oman Flour Mills is a reliable supplier. With a commitment to providing nutritious and well-balanced feed, they offer premium cattle feed products designed to support cattle health and productivity year-round. Whether you’re adjusting your feed for the colder winter months or scaling back during the summer, Oman Flour Mills ensures consistent quality, helping you meet the specific nutritional needs of your cattle. By choosing them as your feed supplier, you can trust that your cattle are getting the best nutrition for optimal growth and performance.