In the competitive world of cattle farming, achieving rapid, healthy growth and high-quality carcasses while maintaining profitability is a perennial goal for farmers. Feedmaster introduces Feedlot 80, a high-performance, premium fattening concentrate specifically formulated to meet the nutritional demands of feedlot cattle. This product is designed to optimise weight gain, improve carcass quality, and maximise your return on investment through advanced formulation and strategic feeding practices.
What is Feedlot 80?
Feedlot 80 is a specialised, high-protein concentrate formulated for ruminants, particularly suited for feedlot operations, but also effective in veld lotting systems. It is an essential component of balanced diets, typically incorporated at 5% of the total feed ration, ensuring cattle receive targeted nutrition for rapid growth and superior performance. Available at your local co-op, Feedlot 80 offers convenient access to a premium product backed by technical support.
Key Features of Feedlot 80
- High-Protein Formulation for Rapid Growth
Feedlot 80 contains a carefully balanced, high-quality protein package that supports maximum muscle growth and development. Proper protein levels at the finishing stage are crucial for achieving optimal carcass conformation. This leads to faster turnaround times from purchase to slaughter, increasing productivity and profitability.
- Advanced Rumen Support and Acidosis Prevention
High-grain diets can lead to acidosis, a metabolic issue that impairs digestion and animal health. Feedlot 80 addresses this issue through Acid Buff, which buffers rumen acid buildup, thereby helping to maintain a stable pH environment. The inclusion of essential oils further enhances microbial activity within the rumen, improving feed breakdown and energy extraction. These features lead to consistent feed intake, higher performance, and fewer health issues related to acidosis.
- Performance-Driven Vitamin & Mineral Technology
The micronutrient premix in Feedlot 80 enhances immunity, skeletal health, and overall growth:
- Skeletal Development: Calcium, Phosphorus, Manganese, and Copper support strong bones and structural integrity.
- Mineral Absorption: Organic zinc and selenium promote efficient absorption and utilisation, boosting immune resistance and overall performance.
- Vitamin Fortification: Elevated Levels of Vitamins A and E help cattle withstand stress, especially during the critical finishing phase, thereby reducing health setbacks.
Practical Feeding Guidelines
Farmers are encouraged to consult their local Feedmaster technical advisors, who can provide personalised advice on feed management, diet formulation, and ration balancing for their specific conditions.
Adoption Period
The transition to Feedlot 80 should take only 2 weeks, during which cattle are gradually shifted from a starter ration to a grower ration, then to a finisher ration before slaughter. This phased approach minimises digestive disturbances and allows the rumen microbes to adapt smoothly to the new diet.
Feeding Rations and Roughage Content:
Starter Ration: Contains approximately 35% roughage, with the remainder being concentrates, including Feedlot 80, to kickstart digestion and promote early growth.
Grower Ration: Includes 25-27% roughage, supporting continued muscle development while maintaining good rumen health.
Finisher Ration: Can be reduced to 18% roughage to maximise energy intake, promote fat deposition, and enhance carcass quality.
Farmers should closely monitor cattle during this transition, adjusting feed as needed based on performance and health indicators.
Ideal Animals for Feeding with Feedlot 80
The success of the feedlot operation hinges on selecting animals with the right characteristics:
- Age and Weight: Cattle aged 8-16 months, weighing between 260-380 kg at purchase, are ideal. These animals are in their growth phase, responding well to high-energy, high-protein diets.
- Health Status: Always choose animals from reputable sources with a clean health record to reduce health risks and optimise growth potential.
How to Purchase and Support by Feedmaster
Feedlot 80 is readily available at your local co-op, making it easy for farmers to access this premium concentrate. For tailored advice or to discuss specific feeding strategies and management practices, farmers can call any of the Feedmaster technical advisors in their area—experts equipped to guide them through their feedlot journey and improve their results.
Final Thoughts
Feedlot 80 is specifically designed to meet the demanding nutritional requirements of finishing cattle, ensuring rapid and efficient growth, as well as high-quality carcasses. Its advanced formulation addresses common challenges such as acidosis, mineral deficiencies, and stress, providing a good foundation for you, the farmer, to build upon.
