Range cubes (also called cattle cubes or cake) are protein supplements that most Tractor Supply stores sell under brands such as Purina, Nutrena and store labels. Pick the cube by protein percentage (commonly 20 percent), whether it contains additives, and the price per pound of protein. Stock varies by store, so check availability with your nearest Tractor Supply.
What range cubes are for
Cubes supplement protein and energy when pasture or hay is low in nutrition, especially in winter, in late pregnancy and for cows with calves. They help cattle digest dry roughage. They are not a replacement for forage and clean water.
How to choose a cube
- Protein level: 20 percent is common for range cattle; ask your vet or extension agent whether your herd needs more or less.
- Medicated or not: some cubes include additives such as ionophores or insect growth regulators. These can be toxic to horses, goats and sheep, so keep other animals away.
- Size and type: cubes of about three-quarter to one-inch size work for feeding on the ground; pellets suit feeders and troughs.
- Price per pound of protein: divide the bag price by the pounds of crude protein it contains.
- Label: read feeding directions, guaranteed analysis and warnings.
Can you feed cubes on the ground?
Yes, many ranchers scatter cubes on the ground or call cattle with a horn. It is quick, but some feed gets trampled or lost in mud, and dominant animals may eat more. A trough or cake feeder reduces waste.
How much to feed
Follow the bag’s directions. Typical amounts for beef cows are a few pounds a day, but the right amount depends on your forage and the cattle’s condition. Start low and increase over several days to avoid digestive upset. Provide plenty of fresh water.
Recall and safety notes
Feed recalls and safety notices happen occasionally in the livestock feed industry. Check the manufacturer’s site or your state agriculture department for current notices on any product you buy, and save the bag tag with the lot number.
Other supplements
If cubes are not the right fit, see cattle mineral blocks, brome hay for cattle and whether cows can eat only hay.
Bottom Line
Buy range cubes by protein percentage and label, keep medicated cubes away from other animals, introduce them gradually, and use a feeder to cut waste.
