Fill in the Forage Gaps for your Livestock this Winter: Winter can be a challenging time for livestock owners! As the colder temperatures and shorter days can make it difficult for animals to find enough food to sustain themselves. This is especially true for grazing animals, as the grass and other plants they rely on for nourishment become scarce during the winter months. In order to ensure the health and well-being of your livestock, it is crucial to provide them with adequate forage during this time.
So, what exactly is forage? Forage is any plant material that is consumed by grazing animals. It can include grasses, legumes, hay, and even silage. Forage is an essential part of a livestock’s diet, providing them with the necessary nutrients, energy, and fiber they need to maintain their health.
Hay:
During the winter, when pasture grasses are not available, it is important to have alternative sources of forage for your livestock. We have hay available! If you just need a few bales delivered with your grain or if you need a tractor-trailer load of hay, give us a call and we will deliver! It is important to provide enough hay for your animals, as they will need to consume more during the winter to meet their energy requirements.
Supplements:
Sometimes the natural forage available may not be enough to meet your livestocks’ nutritional requirements. This is where supplements come in.
Supplements are an important tool in filling in the gaps of forage nutrition for our livestock. They provide essential nutrients that may be lacking in the forage, ensuring that our animals are receiving a balanced diet.
One common supplement for livestock is mineral blocks. These blocks are a convenient and easy way to provide essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and salt. These minerals are crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, proper muscle function, and overall health.
We recommend Purina Accuration Hi-Fat Block (a premium, weather-resistant, protein block with fat, vitamins and minerals added that is designed to balance nutrient deficiencies in your cattle.
Water:
Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of providing clean and fresh water for your animals. Water is essential for digestion and overall health, so make sure your livestock always have access to it.
It’s important to keep your equine friends hydrated. We recommend Purina Replenimash. You can ensure your horse is getting the proper hydration they need. Not only is it balanced and specifically formulated for horses, but one pound mixed with warm water provides a full serving of Outlast and Electrolytes.
In conclusion, read these tips from our blog for more help with preparing for winter weather!
