Advantages of Creep Feeding Weaning weights are increased. Producers can expect 30 to 60 pounds of added gain with creep feeding. It usually takes 8 to 12 pounds of grain to produce one pound of added gain. Calves which have been creep fed usually suffer less setback at weaning and tend to adapt to feedlot rations quicker than calves which have not been creep fed. Herds with low milk production or high numbers of first calf heifers or aged cows may benefit the most from creep feeding.
Milk is an important source of nutrients for the nursing calf.
Calves with above average growth potential will respond more to creep feeding. Likewise, bull calves will respond more than steer or heifer calves. Disadvantages of Creep Feeding If calves will be wintered or backgrounded on low energy diets before going to summer grass as yearlings, creep feeding generally will not pay. The calf price to feed price ratio does not always favor creep feeding. Calves which do not receive creep feed will catch up or compensate after weaning if given access to a good quality backgrounding or feedlot ration.