As the crisp autumn air rolls in, beef farmers across Australia are faced with the challenge of keeping their cattle in top condition, especially as they near slaughter weights. With the quality of grass starting to decline and reports of reduced live weight gains, the question of whether to supplement with meal becomes crucial.
Feeding concentrates, or meal, to cattle at grass comes with its logistical challenges. Heavy cattle rushing to feed troughs can pose safety risks for farmers, especially on heavy land types. However, if ground conditions are drier, meal feeding at grass may be more feasible.
Recent research from Teagasc, a leading agricultural authority, highlights the benefits of feeding cattle at grass, particularly during the autumn season. Martina Harrington, manager of the future beef program at Teagasc, emphasises the importance of maximising the proportion of autumn grazed grass in the animals’ diet, while also considering the strategic use of concentrate supplementation to boost energy density, especially if winter silage stocks are low.
When it comes to deciding on feeding strategies, farmers need to weigh various factors. The economic response to concentrates depends on pasture quality and supply. If pasture quality is good and supply is not limited, the benefit of supplements may be questionable. However, in cases where pasture supply is low or of poorer quality, a growth response to concentrates can be expected.
Teagasc’s research provides valuable insights into the impact of feeding strategies on finishing performance. Two scenarios are outlined – one for animals reaching finishing weight/fat cover and nearing slaughter, and the other for beef x dairy cattle.
For suckler steers, feeding 5kg of concentrate daily over a 95-day period resulted in a significant increase in daily live weight gain and carcass weight. Concentrate feeding improved kill-out percentage, conformation, and fat score, translating to additional carcass weight for a modest cost. The economic benefits of concentrate feeding are evident in increased carcass weight and quality, making it a worthwhile investment for farmers.
In the case of beef x dairy steers, the response to incremental concentrate feeding differed. While the initial 1.5kg of concentrates showed a small increase in carcass weight, further supplementation did not yield significant results. Pasture quality and quantity played a crucial role in meeting the animals’ needs, with adequate DMD and pre-grazing herbage mass ensuring optimal growth.
For forward store cattle that won’t finish until the following February, the decision to supplement should be carefully considered. Comparisons between supplemented and unsupplemented animals show that any advantage gained by supplemented animals is lost when both groups are finished indoors. This insight underscores the importance of making strategic feeding decisions based on the specific needs of the cattle and the seasonal conditions.
As beef farmers navigate the complexities of feeding practices during the autumn season, staying informed and leveraging research-backed insights from experts like Teagasc can make a significant difference in optimising cattle performance and maximising profitability. By carefully evaluating pasture quality, animal requirements, and economic considerations, farmers can make informed decisions that benefit both their cattle and their bottom line.
In conclusion, feeding meal to cattle at grass this autumn presents both challenges and opportunities for Australian beef farmers. By carefully considering factors such as pasture quality, cattle requirements, and economic implications, farmers can make informed decisions that enhance the performance and profitability of their herds. Collaboration with agricultural experts and leveraging research-backed insights can further support farmers in navigating the complexities of feeding practices during the autumn season.
