CopRice Lamb Feedlot Pellets have been perfected in collaborative feeding trials in commercial situations in which growth rate, lean meat and carcase yield were all measured.

The highly digestible steam pelleted ration has been formulated with the optimum balance of energy and protein sources selected to supply ample nutrients for rapid growth, maximum lean meat yield and prevent digestive upsets.

CopRice Lamb Feedlot Pellets contain approved buffers to minimise the risk of digestive upsets and contribute to improved growth rate and feed conversion efficiency when fed according to recommended guidelines.

CopRice Lamb Feedlot Pellets include added essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements such as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. Salt and ammonium chloride have also been added to minimise the risk of urinary calculi, which can be a problem with lot fed male lambs.

Successful feedlot management

Feeding management is critical when lot feeding lambs. 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 Lamb Feedlot Pellets have been designed for feeding lambs from as early as weaning, but a starting weight of at least 35 kg is preferred for lambs destined for export.

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 two weeks to allow the rumen to adapt.

For intensive feedlot situations, an adaptation program has been developed that utilises an extended period for ration changes in which animals can adapt in six stages over two weeks.

All lambs should be shorn and vaccinated to prevent clostridial diseases such as pulpy kidney prior to entering the feedlot.

Weather conditions and site will play a significant part in the performance of lambs. Feedlots should be positioned in relatively sheltered and well-drained locations.

If the weather is particularly wet with cold, squally wind, increasing the roughage allowance will help to keep animals feeding and aid in the prevention of digestive upsets.

Most feed lotting will occur over a period of about 40 – 50 days and lambs should eat about 1.2 kg total ration per day, grow at about 200-300 g/day and convert their feed at around 6:1.

During the adaptation period, and throughout the finishing period, it is essential to closely monitor all lambs 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 lambs, referred to as ‘shy feeders’, may never adapt to the feedlot situation and should be withdrawn.