Instructions

• Step 1: Determine nutritional needs Determine the specific nutritional needs of your cattle.
• TIP: Test the forage The U.S. National Research Council tabulates nutritional requirements for beef cattle. Steers, heifers, and calves all have different requirements.
• Step 2: Test the forage Have a forage test performed to determine the nutritional value of the available feedstuffs. Your county agricultural office can help with this.
• Step 3: Compare the results Compare the results of the forage test with the nutritional requirements of your cattle.
• Step 4: Evaluate supplement needs Determine which supplements are needed to make up for any nutrient deficit.
• TIP: Purchase supplements Consult a nutritionist for guidance if you are not used to doing this.
• Step 5: Purchase supplements Purchase the feed supplements required to balance the cattle's rations. Look forward to a healthy herd.
• FACT: Cattle may consume up to 2.5 percent of their body weight in food on a daily basis.

You Will Need

• Water
• Grass hay
• Nutritional requirements
• Forage test
• Nutritional supplements
• Tabulated nutritional requirements (optional)
• Nutritionist (optional)