Supplements also serve as convenient carriers for additives that can stimulate growth and improve health of cattle. The wrong protein supplement will limit animal performance and reduce profits. Making a choice can be complicated and potentially confusing because many factors must be considered. This fact sheet will discuss factors that should be considered when choosing a protein supplement and present a method for making cost comparisons. Nutritional Considerations First, consider why protein is a nutrient to be concerned about.
Cattle require protein for normal growth, pregnancy, lactation and maintenance.
The amount required is dependent on the animal's size and stage or rate of production. The amount to be supplemented is determined from the requirement and the amount supplied from the remainder of the ration. It is better to choose a supplement that slightly over supplies rather than under supplies needs. Small excesses add little to total costs, but small deficiencies result in decreased feed intake, gain and reduced feed efficiency. Both sources ultimately yield free ammonia in varying amounts.