is it possible to feed feeder cattle all silage? explain why or why not.?

Question

just need a general answer. (idea, whatever you want to call it)

it would be CORN silage. just to let your know. thanks.

Answer 1

Yes, it's very possible, and it's done all the time. Silage can be an efficient way to feed cattle if you have the equipment and conditions aren't right for harvesting hay or corn by other means (or storing/feeding it).

It's an age-old question of whether fed cattle will gain more, dress at a higher percentage, or gain more efficiently (less cost $$$), when fed silage only or if supplemented with corn or molasses, either of which it seems would help put on more weight.

Some feeding tests show slightly greater gain when fed corn in the last several days (40 or so) of the feeding program, others show it's not enough difference to justify the additional cost of adding corn.

Can you feed it? Sure. And it's actually a great feed.

Answer 2

Depends on the situation. If you plan on showing then a good rich diet is a must. I don't think 100% silage would be the best though, too much sugar content. You need to maintain a balanced diet throughout the cow-calf, stocker, and finishing phases to get a good result in the end. A good feedlot provides about a 50:50 concentrate-to-roughage ratio.

Answer 3

i wouldnt think it would be g

ood.i know on hogs corn puts a thicker layer of fat on them.i would mix the diet more.

Answer 4

I'm not exactly sure, but I can't imagine it would be good for them to be fed that exclusively..I'll be curious to see what others have to say..good question.