Nutrition:
Some important nutrient requirements that are essential in cattle production include water, energy, protein, vitamins (A, D, E, K), and minerals.
- Water is required for daily bodily function in cattle because it allows for the movement of the digestive system.
- Energy is important for growth, reproduction, and maintance.
- Proteins are important for lactation, tissue repairs, and growth while also providing amino acids in cattle.
- Vitamins required in cattle are viable for a large variety of functions including vision, immune function, metabolism, and bone health.
Minerals are essential in cows because it allows for the support of all bodily functions to proper flow and develop. Cattle need two types of mineral supplements including macrominerals and microminerals. (Macro-minerals: calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and sulfur) (Micro-minerals: copper, cobalt, iron, iodine, manganese, selenium, and zinc.
Feed:
The importance of feed for cattle is considered a essential nutrients along with minerals since it allows for proper nutrition to support muscles and bone growth, helps boost immune systems, improves the reproductive system, and it also allows to help produce better meat or milk.
Some examples of feed for cattle include:
- Forage (pasture grass, hay, silage)
- Grain/ Concentrates (corn, oats, etc.)
- Supplements/ Other feeds (soybean meal, mixed rations, crop residues, minerals)