Feeding to requirements can have immediate and long-term implications.
Maternal and offspring survival can be compromised if nutrition is insufficient during late pregnancy and lactation. There are also long-term implications for their future growth, maturity and fertility.
Other considerations that might help determine which supplements and the quantity you provide include:
Lactating and young growing stock (especially those early weaned) will have the highest protein demands of any livestock on the farm.
Lactating or young growing sheep require more than 12 per cent protein (and as high as 18 per cent), whereas lactating or growing cattle require more than 10 per cent.
Therefore, feeds like maize, oats and hays may not be sufficient for some stock if fed on their own.
If feeding on the ground, wastage can become an even bigger factor once the ground gets wet.
Larger grains, such as maize and beans, may be better than small grains like barley. Pellets break down and become less palatable quickly when wet.
Therefore, when costing feeds, you may need to build in a wastage factor.
Cold conditions and muddy ground may also increase requirements by at least 20 per cent.
As paddock feed declines over winter, it is important to consider fibre intake, especially for growing livestock or those making milk.
However, this must be balanced as if fibre is too high, they may not be able to eat enough to meet their energy needs.
Some grains require processing when feeding to cattle to achieve the full energy value (like wheat, triticale and barley).
If fed unprocessed, you may need to assume a lower energy value.
Processing grains for sheep is not required and will just increase the chance of acidosis.
The ability to store and handle feedstuffs needs to be considered.
Adding a source of calcium (for example, limestone) when feeding cereal grains will help meet the higher demand of lactating and growing stock.
As the demand for hay and feeds is high, you may be sourcing from suppliers other than your usual provider.
Be aware of introducing new weeds and think about inspecting the product before purchase.
Where to find resources for value and costing of feeds
Common values of feeds and animal requirements for energy and protein (sheep): https://www.feedinglivestock.vic.gov.au/sheep-resources/useful-tables-sheep/
Common values of feeds and animal requirements for energy and protein (cattle): https://www.feedinglivestock.vic.gov.au/beef-resources/useful-tables-beef
