Grain feed for cattle is a concentrated source of energy for the animals. However, it may cause digestive disturbances and reduce the starch fermentation in the animals’ bodies. Here are some tips on grain feeding for cattle:
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Cereal grains are a concentrated source of energy for cattle
Cereal grains provide a concentrated source of energy for cattle and are widely used in livestock rations. A major source of energy for cattle, corn has the lowest crude protein content, yet the highest energy content of any cereal grain. It has twice the total dietary nitrogen (TDN) content of any other cereal grain under favourable growth conditions. This high production is a major economic factor, and explains why corn is important in favourable climates.
Cereal grains are highly digestible, but their content of neutral detergent fiber and total digestible nutrients varies considerably. Compared to hay forages, cereal grains contain more nonstructural carbohydrates, such as starch and amylopectin. Cereal grains also have low levels of structural carbohydrates, including cellulose and lignin, which form the cell walls of the kernel. In addition, the cost of feeding corn is approximately half that of soybeans, making it an economic choice as a primary energy source for cattle.
They reduce starch fermentation
To reduce starch fermentation in grain feed for cattle, grind barley before adding it to the diet. Grinding barley may not pose any health risks, but high levels can challenge the rumen and the cow’s immunity. To minimize starch fermentation in grain feed for cattle, consider blending two or three grains. These mixtures may help improve milk yield and feed efficiency. However, further research is needed to recommend the best mix for each animal.
While dairy cows do not require much starch, it is possible to reduce dietary levels when inventory or economic conditions warrant. One common strategy is to replace starch with highly digestible forages, non-forage fiber, or sugars. When formulating diets for dairy cows, consider the stage of lactation to reduce the risk of ruminal acidosis and reduce the risk of limited intake due to physical gut fill.
They can meet nutritional needs
The use of grain feed for cattle can meet nutritional needs while helping producers control the cost of feeding. Because grains are high in carbohydrates and energy, they can be fed to cattle as a concentrate source of nutrients. However, their low protein content may not meet the animals’ needs, especially if forage quality is poor. Because of this, grain-based rations need to be supplemented with high-quality protein and vitamin supplements.
To meet the nutritional needs of cattle, the grain-based ration should contain approximately 15% protein. The proportion of grain and roughage should be determined by determining the availability of forage. The goal is to provide the necessary nutrients for the animals while minimizing the amount of energy that is required for their growth and health. In addition to being nutritious, high-quality grain feed may also contain other nutrient additives to improve the health and productivity of the animal.
They can cause digestive disturbances
The nutritional and environmental factors that contribute to these disorders are highly complex and likely to involve genetic, environmental and management components. High-grain diets may cause acidosis and ruminal abscesses in cattle. In addition, these diets can promote the overproduction of VFA and mucopolysaccharide slime, which are associated with feedlot bloat and sudden death.
Some of the symptoms of bloat in cattle include distension of the left side, frequent urination, and even sudden collapse. The likelihood of bloating is dependent on the type of forage and mineral content of feed, as well as the animal’s genetic makeup. However, there are several common causes of bloat. For example, certain clovers can cause bloat, while others are not.
In addition to these digestive effects, high-grain diets can also lead to an increased productivity in cattle. A recent study in Science confirms these findings. High-grain rations are highly digestible, which can help cattle grow faster. However, some animals are allergic to fresh grain, which may cause a number of health problems in these animals. So, it is always important to move your cattle to pasture as soon as their stomachs are full.
