ration

[angusboy1]

what is a ration

 

[BIGTEX]

Feed. Heifer Ration, Finishing Ration, etc...

 

[angusboy1]

ok well what is a feed heifier and finishing ration

 

[kanshow]

Feed is what you feed the calf.  A ration is usually a specially formulated mix of feedstuffs designed for a specific feeding goal.  There are hundreds of different rations - they vary with regional feed types, animal needs, etc.    Heifers and younger steers are often fed  a growing or developing ration that has the nutrients needed to maximize her growth potential.  Those rations aren't always formulated to allow for enough finish/fat/cover.  That's when you switch over to a finishing ration.  That is just what it says.. it finishes the animal - provides the nutrients to for them to put on enough fat, muscle, & cover to be considered a finished ready for market animal.    There is far more to it than that... 

 

[red]

a finishing ration usually will provide the nutrients, protein & fat so the steer gains weight to be finshed out for market value. a heifer ration is balanced so that the heifer reaches optimum growth to be bred & produce a calf. You don't want a ration for a heifer that is going to add too much fat cover.
A ration is a balance of grain, byproducts, minerals & vitamins that are nutritionally balanced for the animal's stage in life.

There are some rations & explanations on the front page of www.steerplanet.com

Red

 

[angusboy1]

ok