Providing a feed supplement to grazing cattle is essential because sometimes the natural forage just isn’t enough to meet their nutritional needs. When pasture grasses fall short, supplements help fill in the gaps so your animals can stay healthy and productive. With so many options available, it’s essential to choose the right supplement for your herd and avoid wasting resources on one that doesn’t work.
Food costs are one of the most significant expenses for any producer—up to 40% of total operating costs, according to Oklahoma State. This percentage can climb even higher during drought conditions when forage quality and quantity decline. Every dollar counts, so it’s wise to view these supplements as investments that boost performance rather than just another cost to cut.
The key is to focus on efficiency rather than just the lowest price. A well-chosen supplement can improve animal performance and ultimately lead to a higher return on your investment. Using the right products ensures that your cattle get the nutrition they need without overspending, giving you the most “bang for your buck.“
Every cow/calf producer aspires for calves to gain weight efficiently. Some producers have discovered that a creep system, particularly creep grazing, is a promising way to achieve this goal. Creep grazing, in particular, has the potential to significantly increase calf weight gain, offering a ray of hope for producers. It’s important to note that both methods, creep grazing and creep feeding a concentrate supplement, have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Hence, it’s crucial for the producer to research and choose the method that best suits their needs.
