Experts at the Noble Research Institute, an Oklahoma-based organization of authorities in science, farming, and agriculture who help solve challenges faced by farmers and ranchers, offer these three ways that mineral supplements can help increase the performance of your beef cattle.
Growth Performance
Sodium (Na), potassium (K), and chlorine (Cl) are essential nutrients for muscle contraction, enzymatic reactions, and nerve signal transmission in your cattle, and your herds should have an ample consumption of these minerals, the experts say. Your animals may experience a decrease in intake and gains if they are deficient in these nutrients.
Make sure, though, that you know how much mineral supplementation your cow-calf operation needs. You should monitor your herd’s mineral consumption on a regular basis to make sure they’re receiving the correct amounts. Directions for each mineral product you administer will specify how much your animals should receive in a given time period.
Efficiency of Reproduction
When it comes to reproductive efficiency the ratio of calcium to phosphorous in the diet of your herd plays a key role. Deficiencies in either mineral, or an imbalance in the ratio, can lead to a decrease in fertility and milk production. Although cattle can tolerate ratios between 1:1 and 7:1 (calcium to phosphorous), too much calcium can lessen the absorption of other minerals. So experts recommend that you maintain a ratio of calcium to phosphorous between 1.5:1 and 3:1.
Immune System Functionality
Beef cattle won’t perform well if their immune systems aren’t in optimal condition. Magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), and phosphorous (P) play critical roles in immunity in regards to membrane structure, hormone secretion, bone development, growth, energy utilization, and muscle contraction. There are also several trace minerals that are vital to the function of the immune system, including copper, cobalt, iron, manganese, iodine, zinc, and selenium.
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