For years the question has always been, how do I know if I need to supplement my cows and what’s my best option. Start by evaluating body condition on your cows and get a forage analysis on your hay. If your hay is low in TDN but adequate in protein, you need to consider providing energy to keep cows in the same body condition. If you’ve got lactating cows, the goal should be to keep them from losing body condition. Energy supplementation options include whole corn, soybean hulls and wheat midds. If your hay is low in protein and TDN, you will need to consider an energy and protein supplement. 20% cubes, distillers grains, whole cottonseed or winter pastures are good choices. If hay is low in protein but adequate in TDN, a protein supplement would be appropriate. Examples include cottonseed meal, soybean meal, 40% protein cubes, tubs and liquid feed.
Next comes the question, which product should I buy? Learn to calculate the cost of the specific nutrient to make a wise purchase decision. For example, let’s look at a 20% cube.
20% cube 67% TDN – $15/50# bag
Take 67% TDN X 50 lb = 33.5 lb of TDN in a bag of feed
The feed is $15/bag so take $15 divided by 33.5 and you get $.448 which is the cost per pound of TDN
Take 20% Protein X 50 lb = 10 lb of Protein in a bag of feed
The feed is $15/bag so take $15 divided by 10 and you get $1.50 which is the cost per pound of protein
You can use this formula to price different nutrients for different feed products. Pretty easy, right? Test your hay so you know what you’re working with and compare the price of actual nutrients to ensure the best value for your dollar.