Using a mineral supplement is one of cattle management’s most important yet overlooked parts. Sure, we all are concerned with the amount of protein or energy we are getting, but what about meeting their mineral needs?
Though cattle need minimal mineral supplements, this can significantly affect their overall production and well-being. Selecting the correct mineral supplement is necessary for optimal growth and reproduction health.
When mineral requirements are not being met, cattle do not perform as efficiently as possible. One problem here is that the signs of a deficiency may only be visible once it becomes a severe problem. When that happens, getting them back to where they need to be will cost a lot.
When a deficiency is present, you will see things like decreased weaning weights, reduced milk production, and lack of cows being bred, to name a few. Many signs of deficiency are the same with different minerals, so it may take time to pinpoint which ones they need.
But what type of mineral supplement should I provide? I may not be able to tell you exactly which one will work because I do not know your operation. However, I can give you some tips to consider when deciding which one will work best for you.
A soil test can be a very effective tool in a producer’s toolbox. It can tell you the kind of nutrients that are available and the amounts that are present. Really, it is the foundation of any plan to improve the output of your pastures.
When it comes to mineral supplements, people tend to focus only on either spring or fall. During these times of the year, cattle go through their highest demands. But even though that is the case, you should still pay attention to your cows’ mineral needs during the rest of the year.
Using a mineral supplement is one of cattle management’s most important yet overlooked parts. Sure, we all are concerned with the amount of protein or energy we are getting, but what about meeting their mineral needs?
Doing a soil test can be a very effective tool in a producer’s toolbox. It can tell you the kind of nutrients available as well as the amounts that are present. Really it is the foundation of any plan to improve the output of your pastures.
Using a mineral supplement is one of the most important yet overlooked parts of cattle management. Sure, we all are concerned with the amount of protein or energy they are getting but what about meeting their mineral needs?
