Improving feedlot efficiency and minimizing costs in cattle feedlot operations is crucial for profitability and sustainability. Here’s a breakdown of strategies and considerations:
- Feed Efficiency
Goal: Maximize weight gain per unit of feed.
Strategies:
Ration Formulation: Balance energy, protein, fiber, and minerals using least-cost formulation software.
Use of Feed Additives: Include ionophores (e.g., monensin) to improve rumen efficiency and reduce feed intake per kg of gain.
Feed Testing: Regularly test feedstuffs for nutrient content to adjust rations accordingly.
Bunk Management: Ensure consistent and timely feed delivery, avoid over- or under-feeding.
Limit Sorting: Use total mixed rations (TMR) to prevent animals from selecting feed.
- Health Management
Goal: Prevent disease to maintain feed efficiency and reduce treatment costs.
Strategies:
Preconditioning Programs: Vaccinate and wean before arrival to reduce stress.
Biosecurity: Control movement of animals, people, and equipment.
Monitoring: Early detection and treatment of illness.
Stress Reduction: Minimize handling and environmental stress.
- Genetics and Selection
Goal: Choose cattle with high growth potential and feed efficiency.
Strategies:
Use of EPDs (Expected Progeny Differences): Select animals with superior traits like feed conversion ratio (FCR), average daily gain (ADG).
Crossbreeding: Exploit heterosis for growth and health traits.
- Facility and Environmental Management
Goal: Enhance comfort and reduce energy expenditure by cattle.
Strategies:
Pen Design: Adequate space, drainage, and shade.
Dust and Mud Control: Avoid performance losses due to environmental stress.
Water Access: Clean, fresh water at all times.
- Cost Control
Goal: Optimize input costs without compromising performance.
Strategies:
Feed Procurement: Bulk buying, contract pricing, use of by-products (e.g., distillers grains, beet pulp).
Labor Efficiency: Train workers, automate where feasible.
Maintenance Scheduling: Preventive care for equipment and infrastructure.
- Data and Technology Use
Goal: Make informed decisions using real-time and historical data.
Tools:
Performance Tracking Software
Feed Management Systems
Weigh Scales and RFID for Tracking
Click here to buy Cattle feedlot management book