Beef Cattle Feed Ration Calculator

Beef Cattle Feed Ration Table

Feed Component	Purpose	Typical Inclusion Rate	Nutritional Content	Notes
Forages	Fiber source, digestion aid	50-70% of total diet	High in fiber, low in protein	Good quality hay, silage, or pasture
Grain (corn, barley)	Energy source	20-40% of total diet	High in carbohydrates	Improves weight gain
Protein Meals (soybean, canola)	Protein source	5-15% of total diet	High in protein (36-48%)	Essential for growth and lactation
Minerals (salt, trace minerals)	Mineral balance	1-2% of total diet	Varies by mineral	Free choice or mixed into feed
Vitamins (A, D, E)	Vital for growth and health	0.5-1% of total diet	Varies by vitamin	Use supplements if forage is deficient
Fats (vegetable oils)	Energy dense	2-5% of total diet	High in calories	Improves energy density
Additives (probiotics, ionophores)	Performance enhancement	Varies	Varies	Can improve feed efficiency

Example Ration for Finishing Cattle (Based on 1000 lbs live weight)

Feed Component	Amount (lbs/day)	Nutritional Content	Purpose
Forages	10	10% Protein, 30% NDF	Fiber, roughage
Corn	12	8% Protein, 90% TDN	Energy source
Soybean Meal	3	44% Protein, 50% TDN	Protein source
Minerals (mix)	0.25	Varies	Mineral balance
Vitamins (mix)	0.1	Varies	Health support
Fats (optional)	0.5	100% Fat	Increased energy density

Nutritional Guidelines

1. Energy (TDN): Total Digestible Nutrients should be around 55-65% for growing cattle.
2. Protein: Growing and finishing cattle require 12-16% crude protein.
3. Minerals: Calcium and phosphorus should be balanced (1.5:1 ratio).
4. Water: Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

Tips for Creating a Ration

• Consult a Nutritionist: Always consult with a livestock nutritionist to tailor rations to specific cattle needs.
• Monitor Body Condition: Adjust rations based on the cattle's body condition and performance.
• Feed Quality: Ensure feed quality is high to prevent health issues.

This table provides a foundational overview for creating a beef cattle feed ration. Adjustments may be necessary based on specific herd needs, availability of feedstuffs, and economic considerations.