Digestible Protein - The actual amount of protein that can be utilized by the animal. The amount which can be broken down into amino acids and used to make tissue. Ruminant - An animal having a four chambered stomach. These four chambers include the rumen, reticulum, omasum and abomasum. A ruminant is unique because it contains tiny microorganisms in the largest compartment, the rumen, which help break down feeds into smaller particles called volatile fatty acids, which can be absorbed through the rumen and utilized by the animal.
Ruminants are especially good at breaking down and utilizing forages.
Basic Feeding Thumbrules Always make sure your project has plenty of fresh clean water, especially in the hot summer months. Know the weight of your animal when you start your project. Determine your target end weight and number of days on feed. Monitor the amount your animal project is gaining per day and adjust feeding rates to keep animals gaining desired pounds per day. Forage consumption prior to grain consumption will improve rumen function.