Optimal feed ration#

Regular feeding is essential for normal functioning of cattle. An optimal diet ensures maximum weight gain and production. Insufficient feed slows growth, reduces productivity, and reduces reproduction. A complete lack of feed causes animals to lose weight and cease production.

With very little or no food, weight loss is reduced to a third of potential growth. The exception is animals aged 421–480 days—they do not lose weight. If weight drops to 0 kg, the animal dies.

Feeding from 1 to 60 days#

Animals aged 1–60 days are considered young animals. Feed intake gradually increases from 0.1 kg of each feed on the first day to the maximum level on the 60th day. With an optimal diet, a heifer gains weight from 0.5 kg to 13 kg, and a bull, from 0.5 kg to 16 kg.

Table. Maximum feed consumption on the last (60th) day with an optimal diet

Table: Animal weight gain from 1 to 60 days with an optimal diet

Feeding from 61 to 240 days#

Animals 61–240 days old are considered mature. Feed intake remains constant daily. With an optimal diet, a cow gains 1.083 kg per day, and a bull 1.583 kg. If the main feed is insufficient, supplemental feed can be used.

Table: Feed consumption from 61 to 240 days with an optimal diet

Feeding from 241 to 420 days#

Animals 241–420 days old are adults. With an optimal diet, a cow gains 0.275 kg per day, and a bull 0.4 kg. Superfeed can be used to compensate for feed shortages.

Table: Feed consumption 241–420 days with optimal diet

Feeding from 421 to 480 days#

Animals 421–480 days old are considered aged. Feed intake gradually decreases from a maximum level to 0.1 kg of each feed by day 480. Aged cattle do not gain weight, do not produce milk, and do not mate. However, animals do not lose weight and can survive on pasture, but manure production decreases and the gestation period increases.

Table: Maximum feed intake on day 421 with an optimal diet