Protein tubs have been gaining popularity here lately with producers of all sizes. People that use them like the convenience of having a supplement that is designed to be self-fed in the pasture. They can deliver supplemented nutrients that does not require extra labor.
In an ideal world cattle would get all of their nutrition from the forages and/or the concentrated feeds that they are given. But unfortunately as you are aware we do not live in an ideal world. The quality of the forages can vary in large degree from year to year. Another factor is that each animal will have different nutritional needs throughout the year.
With the difference between nutritional needs and forage quality there is a need to “fill in the gaps”. As you have guessed this is where protein tubs come in.
Seems every year Mother Nature wants to wreak havoc on some regions with drought. Drier than desirable conditions cause problems for livestock producers who depend on forages for grazing during the summer months. But on a positive note using proper planning both your cattle and your bank account can survive the drought.
Sulfur for cattle tends to be a bit of a dividing subject for most producers. When it comes to this subject it generates a love/hate relationship with cattlemen. There are ones who love them as well as swear by them, then there are others who feel they are a waste of money.
Salt as you may know is one of the important building blocks for cattle. This, along with other minerals, are necessary for cattle to perform at their best.
When it comes to minerals people tend to focus only on either spring or fall. It is during these times of the year that cattle go through their highest demands. But just because that is the case it doesn’t mean that you should neglect your cows mineral needs during the rest of the year.
Salt, along with other minerals, are necessary to sustain life in cows. Much like humans they are the essential building blocks for a living being to perform at best.
Creep feeding can be a very useful tool for producers with young calves. This will improve both your bottom line and your overall profitability.
A protein tub is a very good way to provide extra nutrition when needed. One benefit is that once you have placed it in the pasture you don’t need to check it every day. This is helpful for those that may have a job back in town.
Will your cattle meet their mineral requirements this summer?
Creep feeding can be an excellent tool for improving the overall weaning weights of your calves. It can be a good management and economic option for improving your bottom line.
