Starting newly arrived feeder cattle on the right foot is key to achieving profitable performance in the feedlot. At Better Farm Crops, we’re proud to provide solutions that give your cattle the best chance to thrive. A recent research study conducted at a Colorado commercial feedlot evaluated the benefits of supplementing Fastrack® Microbial Pack and Fastrack® Ruminant Microbial Gel for newly arrived steers. Here’s what the study found:
Study Details
The trial involved 128 crossbred feeder steers, averaging 605 pounds, who were recently weaned and transported 150 miles to the feedlot. They were divided into two groups:
- Control Group – Standard management practices
- Fastrack Group – Standard practices PLUS 10cc of Fastrack® Ruminant Microbial Gel at the start of the trial and 1.1 oz of Fastrack® Microbial Pack daily.
The cattle were observed over a 28-day period, during which their feed intake, weight gain, and overall performance were closely monitored.
Key Findings
- Fastrack steers gained more weight, with an impressive 9.9% increase in average daily gain compared to the control group.
- Feed efficiency improved by 7%, meaning these steers made better use of the feed provided, leading to more weight gain per pound of feed consumed.
- The Fastrack group also showed improved nutrient absorption, reflected in a 6.6% increase in net energy for maintenance (NEm) and 3.5% increase in net energy for gain (NEg).
The Role of Direct-Fed Microbials
Fastrack’s direct-fed microbials help stabilize rumen fermentation, allowing cattle to digest feed more efficiently and absorb nutrients better. Despite a slightly higher incidence of respiratory illness in the Fastrack group, these cattle recovered quickly and outperformed the control group in overall weight gain and efficiency.
The Bottom Line
Supplementing your feedlot cattle with Fastrack® Microbial Pack and Ruminant Gel can lead to significant improvements in weight gain, feed efficiency, and overall health. These benefits contribute directly to higher profitability for your operation.
Are you ready to enhance your herd’s performance? Contact us today to learn more about Fastrack products and how they can benefit your feedlot.
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