If one wants to ensure maximum health and productivity from cattle, one has to make the proper choices in the feed given to these livestock. But, with so many different options available, it makes this decision all the more challenging.
Know how much your cattle need. There are various stages in the life cycle of cattle—calves, heifers, lactating cows, and finishing cattle. For instance, growing calves require their protein level to be on the higher side for healthy growth, whereas lactating cows should be provided with a nutrient-dense diet with energy and minerals to help produce milk. A livestock nutritionist would be an excellent person to work with if you are trying to determine what sort of dietary requirements the cattle need.
Cattle feed can take many forms: hay, silage, grains, and commercial feed mixes. Each has its own pluses and minuses. Hay is a good source of roughage, but grains can provide concentrated energy. Commercial feed mixes typically include a variety of ingredients, designed to meet specific nutritional requirements. Learn about the available options and their nutrient composition so you can make informed decisions.
Quality in cattle feed is very crucial. Quality feed will result in healthier cattle and increase their productivity. Avoid feeds containing contaminants, mold, or spoilage. Many producers offer analysis reports of their products, which indicate their nutritional content and source of the ingredients. Ask for more information, as it can help you understand the quality of your feed.
Feeding is one of the biggest expenses on your farm. Even though you will be tempted to cut costs, remember that proper feed leads to better gains in weight, more milk yields, and a healthier herd. Compare not per ton cost but per unit of nutrient. Sometimes better-quality feed will cost more, but it results in lower veterinary costs and improved overall performance.
Once you have fixed on a feed, you should closely follow up on the performance of your cattle. Look out for healthy weight gain, improved milk yield, and overall vitality. Record feeding intake, growth rates, and changes in health in detail. If a problem is noted, visit a veterinarian or livestock nutritionist for an adjustment to the feeding program.
The cattle feed industry evolves with new research and innovations occurring daily. Always be looking out for trends: increased by-product usage, alternative protein sources, and advancements in feed technology. Associations or agriculture conferences can keep you up-to-date on the newest developments as well as the best practices in the business.
Never undermine the community. Talk to other cattle producers, vets, and nutritionists about insights and recommendations that may have stemmed from personal experience. Networking can bring a supplier for feed or help one understand successful feeding strategies.
The choice of cattle feed is an important decision that will depend on your herd's nutritional needs, budget, and the quality of available products. Oman Flour Mills stands out as one of the top cattle feed manufacturers in the country, producing quality cattle and poultry feed. To support sustainable practices, the company undertakes the production of an array of nutritious cattle feed products that suit the various dietary requirements of the various livestock. Using state-of-the-art technology, Oman Flour Mills helps local farmers while ensuring better productivity in livestock across the region. Through research and development, they ensure that the products are effective as well as the best practices in animal nutrition.