5 Main Feeds to Increase Cattle Weight

1. High-Energy Concentrates

When it comes to promoting weight gain in cattle, high-energy feeds play a critical role. These feeds, such as corn and barley, are abundant in carbohydrates that are easily offered for energy production. This power is necessary for efficient weight gain, as it supports various metabolic processes and exercises that add to muscle mass growth and fat deposition.

Corn contains high starch material, usually considered the gold criterion amongst high-energy feeds. It is conveniently absorbable and provides a considerable energy increase, making it a preferred selection among cattle feeders. Barley, on the other hand, uses a balanced account of energy and healthy protein, making it an exceptional option or supplement to corn.

Besides, sorghum can be a good alternative when used in areas where corn grows poorly, sorghum. It can be easier to digest when properly processed.

2. Healthy Protein

Protein plays an important role in supporting muscle development and general weight gain in cattle. These proteins provide the vital amino acids required for building and repairing muscle mass cells, which is particularly essential during durations of quick growth or recovery from health problems. The protein can be gained from:

Soybean Meal: A high-protein supplement that aids in muscle development and overall growth. It’s essential for balancing high-energy diets.

Cottonseed Meal: While slightly lower in protein than soybean meal, it’s another effective protein source for cattle feed.

Canola Meal: Known for its high protein content, it’s a useful ingredient in cattle diets, particularly in regions where it’s more economically viable than soybean meal.

3. High-quality Forage 

Providing access to high-quality forage, such as pasture, hay, or silage, is essential for promoting weight gain in cattle. Forage serves as a primary source of fiber, energy, and essential nutrients, supporting healthy rumen function and overall digestion. Grazing on lush, nutritious pasture can contribute to significant weight gain in cattle, especially during the growing season.

Alfalfa: High in protein and energy, alfalfa is a preferred forage for cattle. It supports weight gain while providing necessary fiber.

Silage: Corn silage offers both energy and roughage, making it an excellent feed for fattening cattle. It helps in maintaining gut health and aids in digestion.

Grass Hay: While not as rich in nutrients as alfalfa or silage, grass hay is important for digestive health and can be used effectively in a balanced diet.

4. High-energy Additives

Grain By-products: Such as distiller’s grains or wheat bran, these can be used to boost energy levels and support weight gain.

Fat Additives: Adding fat sources like vegetable oils can increase the caloric intake without increasing the bulk of the feed.

5. Supplements & Additives

Mineral & Vitamin Supplements: Providing access to mineral and vitamin supplements is essential for maintaining overall health and supporting optimal growth and weight gain in cattle. Ensure that cattle have access to a balanced mineral mix containing essential nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and trace minerals.

Feed Additives: Options like yeast supplements, enzymes, and probiotics can enhance feed efficiency and nutrient absorption, promoting faster growth. An additive like “Quick Fattener for Cattle and Sheep” can improve feed conversion efficiency, increase average daily gain, and optimize feed utilization, leading to improved growth performance.

Useful Tips for Effective Weight Gain in Cattle

Balanced Diet: Ensure that the feed provides a balanced diet with the right proportions of protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals.

Consistent Feeding: Maintain a consistent feeding schedule and monitor the cattle’s response to adjust the diet as needed.

Health Monitoring: Regularly check the health of the cattle, as illness or parasites can affect weight gain. If deworming is necessary, you can consider Ivermectin injection. After successful deworming, the cattle’s appetite will not only be restored, but the nutrients obtained from the feed will not be lost.

In a word, by combining these feed options and strategies, you can effectively promote weight gain in cattle and achieve your desired results.

Author : Gnee Bio TechnologyEstablished in 2011, TIANJIN GNEE BIO TECHNIQUE CO., LTD. has more than ten years of continuous research and development of a variety of Veterinary drugs, focusing on the health of your livestock, poultry, and pets.