The best grain mix for beef cattle is built around forage first, with grain added to meet energy needs. A common mix uses corn or barley for energy, a protein source such as soybean meal, and a mineral supplement, balanced to the animal’s weight and stage. There is no one recipe, so have a nutritionist or extension agent check any mix before you feed it.
Forage First
Cattle are ruminants. Pasture, hay or silage should be the backbone of the diet, and grain is an add-on for growing, finishing or lactating animals. Feeding too much grain can upset the rumen, so use it carefully.
Common Grains for Beef Cattle
- Corn: the most energy-dense common grain. Cracked or rolled corn digests better than whole.
- Barley: a good energy source that ferments faster in the rumen, so introduce it slowly. See soaking barley for cattle.
- Oats: lower in energy and higher in fiber, so they are safer for young or sensitive animals.
- Wheat: use sparingly. It ferments quickly and can cause acidosis in large amounts.
- Sorghum (milo): works when processed (rolled or steam-flaked).
Protein and Minerals
Grain alone is low in protein and unbalanced in minerals. Add:
- A protein supplement such as soybean meal or cottonseed meal when forage or grain is low in protein.
- Calcium and phosphorus in the right ratio. Grain is high in phosphorus and low in calcium, so limestone is often added. See the calcium to phosphorus ratio in cattle.
- Salt and trace minerals formulated for cattle. Never use a mineral meant for sheep or other species without checking copper levels.
Example of a Simple Growing Mix
This is an illustration only, not a ration for your herd:
- About 70-80% cracked corn or barley
- About 10-20% protein supplement
- About 2-5% mineral and salt mix
The right balance depends on the forage quality, so test your hay and ask an expert to balance the ration.
Feeding Rules That Prevent Problems
- Increase grain slowly over two to three weeks so the rumen adapts.
- Split grain into two or more feedings if you feed larger amounts.
- Always provide plenty of roughage and fresh water.
- Watch for bloat, acidosis, diarrhea or going off feed. Call your vet right away if cattle seem unwell.
Cost
Corn, barley and soy prices change, so compare the cost per pound of energy and protein. Mixed feeds from a local mill can also save time.
Bottom Line
A good beef cattle grain mix combines an energy grain, a protein source and the right minerals on top of quality forage. Introduce changes gradually and have the ration checked. See also the best cattle finisher feed and which grains for cows are the best.
