Formulating a ration for cattle is critical to any successful beef operation. There are times when forages alone will not supply what the cows need for their stage. When it comes that time, you will need to provide a supplement that will fill in the gaps to keep them producing.
Supplements are typically the most significant on-farm expense producers will have all year. Most estimates have it at around 70% of the yearly costs. Some may think the lowest price is the way to go, but that is not usually the best answer. With that high of an expense, it is in your best interest to have your feed be as efficient as possible. Going with the lowest cost could cost you more in the long run.
In order to make it as efficient as possible, you will need to balance both costs and performance. Getting the feed ration right is a delicate balance of providing the best quality and the lowest price possible. You set your cattle up for success when you get the ration right. Here are some things to consider when building your next cattle ration.
Roughages, often overlooked but crucial, are an essential part of a cow’s diet. While the focus is usually on crude protein, energy, and mineral content, understanding the role of roughages is equally essential. A certain amount of roughage is necessary to keep the rumen functioning and aid in the digestion of protein, energy, and minerals, contributing significantly to cattle’s overall health and production. This knowledge empowers you, the reader, to make informed decisions about your cattle’s nutrition.
Deciding which cows to cull is a challenging task for most producers. Sometimes, their personal feelings about that particular animal get in the way. Sometimes, they don’t even know which ones are under-performing and which ones need to be kept.
Heifer development, while challenging, is a rewarding task that shapes the future of your herd. The transformation of young heifers into productive mothers is a process that, with careful planning and management, can lead to long-term success. Every decision, from nutrition to breeding, has a lasting impact on the productivity of your herd, instilling a sense of optimism and motivation for the future.
Winter grazing management can 
It may not seem like it now, but winter is coming. The change in seasons also brings new problems to deal with to keep your cattle performing at their best. Keeping your cattle healthy during the stress of colder winter temperatures can be a pain in the neck. It is also doable.
Protein supplements are often needed during the fall and winter months. This need is because, during this time, most of your tame pasture forages go into dormancy. When this happens, things like their protein content will go down.
What is the proper strategy for heifer development for my cowherd?
Understanding shrinkage is a 
Prickly pear, along with other cactus species, is a pressing issue in pastures. The proliferation of these cacti can impede livestock movement and pose serious health risks.
