A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE ON BEEF COW FEED FORMULATION
Introduction
Formulating an effective feed for beef cows involves a deep understanding of their nutritional needs, the types of feed available, and how to balance these to promote optimal health and productivity. This guide covers the essential aspects of feed formulation, including nutritional requirements, types of feed, balancing the diet,
formulation strategies, monitoring, and practical considerations.
Understanding Nutritional Requirements
Energy
Energy is the cornerstone of a beef cows diet. It fuels vital processes like growth, reproduction, and lactation. Energy needs are measured in megacalories (Mcal) of net energy (NE). The energy requirements vary based on the cows age, weight, and production stage. For instance, lactating cows have higher energy needs compared to dry cows.
Protein
Protein is crucial for muscle development, milk production, and maintenance. It is measured in crude protein (CP) percentage. The protein requirement also varies with the cows physiological state. Growing calves and lactating cows require more protein than mature, non-lactating cows.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals are essential for numerous bodily functions. Key minerals include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and trace minerals like zinc, copper, and selenium. Vitamins A, D, and E are also vital. These nutrients support bone health, immune function, and overall vitality.
Fiber
Fiber is essential for rumen function and digestion. It is measured as neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF). Adequate fiber intake is necessary to maintain a healthy rumen environment and prevent issues like acidosis.
Types of Feed
Forages
Forages, such as pasture, hay, and silage, are the foundation of a beef cows diet. They are high in fiber and essential for maintaining rumen health. The quality of forage can vary significantly, so it is important to test forage to determine its nutritional content.
Concentrates
Concentrates include grains like corn, barley, and oats, which are high in energy and protein. They are typically used to supplement forage, especially when energy and protein requirements are high.
By-products
By-products from the food and biofuel industries, such as soybean meal, cottonseed meal, and distillers grains, can be cost-effective protein sources. They are often used to supplement the diet when high-protein forages are not available.
Supplements
Vitamins, minerals, and other additives are used to meet specific nutritional needs that are not fully covered by forages and concentrates. Supplements ensure that all micronutrient requirements are met.
Balancing the Diet
Determine Nutrient Requirements
The first step in feed formulation is to determine the cows nutrient requirements. This depends on factors such as age, weight, production stage (growth, lactation, maintenance, or pregnancy), and environmental conditions. Nutrient requirements
can be found in resources like the National Research Council (NRC) guidelines.
Analyze Feedstuff Nutrient Content
The next step is to analyze the nutrient content of available feedstuffs. This can be done through laboratory testing or using published average values. Knowing the nutrient composition of feeds helps in formulating a balanced diet.
Formulate Rations
Using the nutrient requirements and feedstuff analysis, you can formulate rations. This can be done manually or using specialized software. The goal is to create a diet that meets the cows energy, protein, vitamin, and mineral needs.
Adjust for Dry Matter Intake (DMI)
Cows consume feed on a dry matter basis, so it is important to ensure that the diets total nutrient content is based on the expected dry matter intake. DMI varies with the cows size, production stage, and feed quality.
Common Feed Formulation Strategies
Total Mixed Ration (TMR)
TMR is a method where all feed ingredients are mixed together to provide a consistent and balanced diet in every bite. It ensures that cows receive the correct balance of nutrients and reduces the risk of digestive problems.
Pasture-Based Systems
In pasture-based systems, cows primarily rely on grazing. Supplemental feeding is provided during periods of low forage availability or to meet specific nutritional needs. This system promotes natural grazing behavior and can reduce feed costs.
Grain Feeding
Grain feeding, often used in feedlot operations, increases energy intake for faster growth and weight gain. It is typically combined with some forage to maintain rumen health.
Monitoring and Adjusting
Body Condition Scoring (BCS)
Regularly assessing body condition helps ensure cows are in optimal condition. BCS is a visual assessment of fat cover and can indicate whether cows are receiving adequate nutrition. Adjustments to the diet are made based on BCS results.
Performance Monitoring
Tracking growth rates, milk production, and reproductive performance provides insights into the effectiveness of the diet. Consistent performance monitoring allows for timely adjustments to the feed formulation.
Health Monitoring
Observing cows for signs of nutritional deficiencies or excesses is crucial. Poor coat condition, lameness, and digestive issues can indicate problems with the diet. Regular health checks help maintain overall herd health.
Practical Considerations
Feed Availability and Cost
The availability and cost of feedstuffs can influence feed formulation decisions. Using locally available and cost-effective feed ingredients can improve economic efficiency without compromising nutritional quality.
Storage and Handling
Proper storage and handling of feedstuffs prevent spoilage and maintain feed quality. This includes protecting feed from moisture, pests, and contamination.
Water Availability
Cows need constant access to clean, fresh water. Adequate water intake is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health.
Sample Feed Formulation
Here’s an example of a basic feed formulation for a lactating beef cow weighing
1,300 lbs (590 kg) with a daily milk production of 20 lbs (9 kg):
Forage:
o Alfalfa hay (18% CP, 1.24 Mcal/lb NEL) – 20 lbs (9 kg)
Concentrate:
o Corn grain (9% CP, 1.54 Mcal/lb NEL) – 10 lbs (4.5 kg)
o Soybean meal (44% CP, 1.02 Mcal/lb NEL) – 3 lbs (1.4 kg)
Minerals and Vitamins:
o Mineral mix (specific to the region and needs) – as per manufacturer’s recommendation
o Vitamin mix (A, D, E) – as per manufacturer’s recommendation
