Molasses, Urea, Copra and More.
Protein is an essential for weaners during the dry season and beyond. There are lots of options for getting protein supplementation for your cattle but there are a couple key ingredients. Urea and Molasses are an essential addition to protein intake for weaners.
Urea is a non-protein nitrogen compound that can significantly enhance protein intake in weaner cattle when used appropriately. In the rumen, urea is converted by microbes into ammonia, which is then utilized by these microbes to synthesize microbial protein. This microbial protein can be digested and absorbed in the intestines, effectively increasing the overall protein available to the animal. For weaner cattle, whose protein requirements are high due to rapid growth, urea supplementation can be a cost-effective way to improve protein intake, supporting optimal growth rates and overall health. However, it must be carefully managed to avoid toxicity and ensure it is balanced with adequate energy sources in the diet.
There are many options for licks and blocks that include Urea. If not using one of these urea must be thoroughly dissolved into molasses supplements to avoid toxicity. Mechanical mixers should be used to thoroughly mix the urea prior to feeding. It is important to do your research and know how much urea to use for your cattle and pay particular care when using granulated urea.
Molasses provides attractive and rich in easily digestible sugars, which provide the rumen microbes with the necessary energy to efficiently utilize nitrogen sources like urea and other non-protein nitrogen compounds. This enhanced microbial activity results in increased production of microbial protein, which can then be digested and absorbed in the intestines. Additionally, molasses improves the palatability of feed, encouraging higher intake and better overall nutrition. By supporting both energy and protein requirements, molasses can help optimize growth and development in weaner cattle.
Other good sources of protein for your weaners include soybean and copra meal. Copra meal, a byproduct of coconut oil extraction is also an option for protein. When included in the diet, it complements other feed components by filling protein gaps, particularly in dry seasons. It has a high protein content, along with its palatability and ease of mixing into various feed formulations, it is also a higher fat option.
We have a variety of options from Copra to Urea and Molasses in licks and blocks as well as stand alone products. Ask our Agronomist or staff about the best options for your cattle.
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