When feed quality is unknown, it is significantly more difficult to maintain animal health and welfare, says the Beef Cattle Research Council.
Visual assessment of feedstuffs is not accurate and may cause cows to be underfed and lose body condition. It may also lead to unnecessary spending on expensive supplements. It is important to determine whether the nutritional needs of cattle will be met by the quality of feed that is available.
Doing so can help avoid sneaky production problems, such as poor gains or reduced conception caused by mineral or nutrient deficiencies or excesses. It can also prevent or identify toxicity problems from mycotoxins and other contaminants.
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