In the News - January 2008
Minerals play a vital role in the health and productivity of beef cattle herds
MOUNTAIN HOME, Ark. - A mineral deficiency can reduce both the consumption
and digestibility of feed for beef cattle, according to Mark Keaton, Baxter
County staff chair for the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.
"Two symptoms of mineral deficiency often seen in beef cow herds are reduced
milk production, which results in slower calf gains, and the failure of cows to
breed regularly, which lowers the calf crop percentage," Keaton said.
Fewer and lighter weight calves mean reduced beef production. Feeding growing
cattle a diet low in minerals reduces both the rate and efficiency of animal
gains.
Keaton said minerals are classified as macrominerals or microminerals.
Macro-nutrients are those needed in large amounts, including calcium,
phosphorus, sodium, chlorine, magnesium, potassium and sulfur.
Micronutrients are trace minerals needed in small amounts such as iron,
manganese, copper, iodine, cobalt, zinc and selenium.
"Few feeds contain all the minerals needed to meet the dietary requirements
of a beef cattle herd," he noted. "The minerals should be supplied in a feed
supplement."
Beef cattle diets almost always need to be supplemented with sodium,
chlorine, calcium and phosphorus.
Minerals can be supplied in a commercially prepared mix or a homemade
formulation. A mineral mix - the kind usually used in small operations - should
be at least 6 percent to 12 percent phosphorus.
A complete mineral mix should be fed free-choice in a single-compartment
feeder, Keaton said. Feeders should be located near water, no farther apart than
a half mile.
Check feeders at least once a week to make sure the mineral supply is fresh
and clean, he said.
For more information on supplying mineral needs to a herd, call your county
extension agent. The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the U of A
Division of Agriculture.
January 4, 2008
Media Contact: Lamar James
Extension Communications Specialist
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2187 or (501) 753-0207
ljames@uaex.edu
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