Why Feed Protein to Cattle on Pasture?
Providing sufficient protein to cattle on pasture improves forage digestion. Protein is usually the first limiting nutrient for cattle fed low-quality forages. Protein is necessary for rumen microbes to digest fiber. Plus, protein is necessary for cattle growth and to replace the daily breakdown of body tissues, including muscle, blood, hair, and hooves. Insufficient dietary protein can cause body condition scores to decline, which can lead to: • Reduced conception rates • Lighter calves • Poor health • Reduced milking ability When Should Cattle Receive Supplemental Protein? Supplemental protein should be fed to grazing cattle when forages fail to provide enough protein to meet their nutrient needs. Protein requirements of cattle vary based on cow weight, stage of reproduction, and weather conditions. Forage protein levels also fluctuate greatly during the grazing season as evidenced in Figure 3. When forage protein is inadequate in meeting cow and rumen microbial requirements, body co
