Among all the feeds available to cattle, feeding straight corn is the least expensive option. However, feeding cattle straight corn is not always a good idea. It can disturb the pH balance of the rumen, which can lead to a condition known as acidosis. Cattle farmers try to avoid this condition as much as possible by adding forage to the diet. This is why it is essential to monitor the diet transition and avoid abrupt changes in feed. In general, cattle feed consists of a mixture of various feeds in the right proportions.
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Less expensive
Feeding cattle straight corn is less expensive than using corn-based feed. Corn is a low-cost alternative, as it takes up very little space relative to its value. This means that you can feed 50,000 animals in a small space. However, you can’t feed a hundred thousand animals with hay, because shipping costs would overwhelm the entire space. In fact, some producers choose to feed straight corn to cattle, even though it is less expensive in the long run.
Cattle are ruminants, which means that they have four parts of their stomach and chew their cud. Because of their digestive systems, corn contains more than half of its protein as escape protein. This escape protein is not fermented by the microorganisms in the cow’s rumen. The remaining half of corn’s protein is degraded by the small intestine.
Better for energy
Providing energy for cattle is crucial. Although you may have heard that haylage is a better source of energy for your cattle, it is important to remember that haylage is not a high-quality source of energy. It can also contain a significant amount of protein, which detracts from the energy content of the feed. In addition, you should aim for a 40% roughage to 60% corn ratio, with both cracked and whole kernals.
Corn is a cheaper source of energy than oats. It costs approximately $4.00 per bu. When compared to oats, corn is about half the price. Oats cost $1.85 per bushel, making corn the better option for livestock producers. In addition to corn, other small grains like barley are better sources of energy. Cattle can benefit from both. They need to be given a balanced diet to thrive.
Better for welfare
There is a question that has been asking itself for a long time: is straight corn better for cattle welfare? The answer lies in understanding the digestive processes of cattle and the implications of feeding them high-corn diets. There are several reasons for this, and the best way to answer this question is to examine the economics of feedlot production and the impact of feeding corn on animal welfare. This article will highlight some of these reasons and discuss how to improve cattle welfare.
Cattle are raised on grain diets because they are cheap and easy to feed to large numbers of animals. This has resulted in a rise in meat production and the average American household’s ability to afford it. However, this practice is not good for cattle, which are adapted to live on grass. Grain-based diets put them in cramped conditions and cause digestive problems. It also robs them of the natural grazing instinct.
Better buy
Compared to small grains, corn contains less protein. In addition, beef cattle tend to be energy starved, so feeding a high-quality source of energy is more beneficial for their well-being. If you’re wondering whether it’s better to feed straight corn or small grains, you should remember that small grains are much cheaper than corn. But how much should you feed cattle? There are many ways to feed more energy to your cattle than corn.
