While the best feed for finishing beef cattle may differ in different production systems, there are certain ingredients that are common in many types of rations. Some of these ingredients include corn or barley, Deccox 80, and other byproduct feeds. These feeds can help improve the marbling of beef cattle.
Rations for finishing beef cattle
Rations for finishing beef cattle are high-concentrate diets for beef cattle. The amount of feed to be fed depends on the age and weight gain of the calves. Calves typically gain from 2.5 to four pounds per day during the finishing phase of their lives. The feed will be supplemented with roughage such as pasture, hay, or cottonseed hulls. Ration amounts should not exceed 50% of the calves’ body weight.
Fats are also important components of feed. Some rations contain as much as 10% fat. The amount of fat added in the feed depends on the energy needs of the cattle. However, excess dietary fat will compromise the efficiency of digestion. The typical ration for lactating cattle contains about 7-8% dietary fat.
Feeding higher-forage rations is not recommended for all cattle. Higher-forage rations may be best used at the start of the feeding program when cattle are more efficient at using forage. However, they may be appropriate for conservation plans. It is important to start transitioning cattle onto finishing rations before they get too large. If cattle are too large, it might be more profitable to sell them before finishing.
Rations containing corn or barley
In general, rations that contain corn or barley provide the highest level of energy and protein in a diet. This grain has an ancient history and is the fourth most important cereal grain in the world. Its nutrient profile is good for beef cattle. Barley can be harvested for grain, as well as for forage and other uses. It can grow in a wide range of climates, including temperate and saline environments.
Cereal grains are concentrated sources of dietary energy and are often used in cattle feed. In finishing rations, cereal grains can constitute up to 90% of the dry matter. They are also cheaper than other sources of feed and contribute to the growing cattle’s protein requirements. These grains are also used in silages, but the grain must be properly rolled. Once rolled, it increases energy and protein content and decreases effluent loss.
Corn or barley is one of the most popular feeds for finishing beef cattle. Studies have shown that these grains are more easily digestible than other grains. A study by Jacobs et al., in Aust. J. Exp. Agriculture, published in 2003, found that the combination of corn and barley improved cattle growth. The researchers studied the effects of grain processing degree on digestibility in cattle feed.
Rations containing other byproduct feeds
Many cattle producers have looked into feed alternatives as a cost-saving strategy. These alternatives often contain byproducts or residues from processing crops and other agricultural products. These feeds can be used as primary roughage or as a supplement to a regular ration. These feeds can also serve as an alternative to pasture.
In addition to corn, other byproduct feeds such as cotton have been used for cattle diets. Cotton byproducts are a valuable source of protein, fat, and fiber. Several studies have assessed the effects of using cotton byproducts as a finishing diet for beef cattle.
The ingredients of these feeds can vary widely. These ingredients must be processed in a manner to ensure proper safety, as byproducts are highly perishable. They should be mixed with other feedstuffs that meet the nutritional needs of the intended animal. Moreover, their composition must be consistent from load to load.
