Finisher Pellets are an ideal feed for finishing young cattle in a feedlot situation, supplementing pasture to increase output and product quality, or feeding during conditions of pasture shortage and drought.

CopRice Beef Finisher Pellets are a highly digestible finishing supplement formulated with the optimum balance of energy and protein sources. The ingredients in the steam pelleted feed have been selected to avoid digestive upsets and supply ample nutrients for rapid growth in a variety of production situations. CopRice Beef Finisher Pellets contain essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements as well as approved buffers and licensed performance enhancers to maximise growth rates and improve feed conversion efficiency when fed according to recommended guidelines.

Young cattle should eat between eight and nine kilograms of ration per day and grow between 1.5 to 2 kg/day, converting their feed at about 6:1. CopRice Beef

Feedlot recommendations

Feeding management is critical when lot feeding beef cattle. Attention to detail and access to a continuous supply of good quality feed and cool, clean water is essential for maximising feed intake, minimising digestive upsets and optimising production efficiency.

CopRice Beef Finisher Pellets have been designed for feeding to beef cattle over nine months of age and weighing more than 250 kg. It is imperative to feed at least 25% roughage in the ration to minimise digestive upsets. New feedstuffs should always be introduced gradually over a period of at least 14 days to allow the rumen to adapt. Weather conditions and site will play a significant part in the performance of cattle. Feedlots should be positioned in relatively sheltered and well-drained locations. If weather is particularly wet with cold, squally wind, increasing the hay allowance will help keep animals feeding and aid in the prevention of digestive upsets.

All cattle should be vaccinated prior to entering the feedlot to prevent clostridial diseases such as Pulpy Kidney and drenched to eliminate worms. An adaptation program for intensive feedlot situations has been developed, which utilises an extended period for ration changes in which animals can adapt in five stages over 21 days.

During the adaptation period, and throughout the finishing period, it is essential to closely monitor all stock to prevent any health problems. Diarrhoea can indicate acidosis and affected animals must be withdrawn and treated then re-introduced to pellets at Stage 1. Some cattle, referred to as ‘shy feeders’, may never adapt to a feedlot situation and should be withdrawn.