Is Your Mineral Worthy of Your Investment?

Dec 06, 2021

Mineral can cost from $0.10 up to more than $0.25 per cow per day, but it is a worthwhile investment for the benefits in reproductive and overall cattle health. To make sure you are getting the best return on your investment, there are a few things you can do.

The first thing you can do is to read the tag. Dig into it and see what you are really getting in the bag. The price tag might look attractive, but the ingredients might be lacking, this can lead to cow health and reproductive issues. Phosphorous is a critical mineral for both cow and calf performance. But many minerals are short on Phosphorous because it is a very expensive ingredient. Every 1% increase in Phosphorous level will add $1.50-2.00 per bag. However, the return on investment is worth it. Studies have shown an increase in calf crop weaned and an additional 50 pounds of weight per calf. These increases are due to cows calving early in the season. At a sale price of $1.50 per pound that’s an extra $75.00 of gross income.

The second thing is monitoring their intake. Intake is essential, if they eat to much you are wasting money; if they don’t eat enough, they run the risk of becoming deficient. Intake is even more important if you are using fly control or medication in your mineral. For those products to work properly, they depend on consistent intake. Read the tag and see what your intake should be, most minerals ask for 3-4 ounce per head per day. Move the feeders around to control intakes, closer to water and shade to increase, move them away to decrease consumption. Another thing to avoid is weather issues. Rain-soaked mineral can turn to a brick, causing cows not to eat it. Weatherized mineral will help with this problem, it helps protect against weather and helps you avoid wasted product and money.

The third thing is to remember the long-term return on investment. By meeting the mineral needs of your cattle now, you will be proactive in herd health and reproductive issues. This will lead to optimal performance and reduced costs such as veterinary services and additional labor. Contact SFG and let’s make sure your mineral program is worthy of your investment.