Therefore, feeding practices need to be as practical and economical as possible. Nutrition influences cow fertility and calf weaning weight, the two biggest success factors in the cow-calf operation. As a cattle producer, one should utilize pasture forage as the majority of the animal's diet with minimal supplementation and only when supplementation is needed. Body condition scoring is the best tool to assess whether or not an animal's nutritional needs are being met. One must recognize the importance of each and their relationship to each other.
Cattle are ruminants due to the four-compartment stomach.
The rumen is the major part of the stomach and functions as a fermentation vat. The cow derives energy from the volatile fatty acids produced from the microbial fermentation. Microbial protein is obtained through digestion of microorganisms. To function properly, the cow digestive system requires a balance of essential nutrients. A Review of Applied Beef Cattle Nutrition.