Protein and Energy Requirements of Replacement and Feedlot Cattle

Abstract

Feed and water are still the most important ingredients in a successful recovery and feeding program for replacement feedlot cattle. Oftentimes due to the feeding of unfamiliar feeds or feeding in unfamiliar places (e.g. feed bunks), cattle do not readily consume feed after they are shipped to feedlots and· therefore are slow to recover weight loss during shipment and to readily start on feed. Without feed consumption, refinements in protein and energy levels are futile. We have been attempting research in this area but this is a difficult area and therefore only limited research data can be brought to bear on this important phase of feedlot production. Once cattle are on feed, more is known about their nutritional requirements and refinements are easier to make.