Introductory/Pre-conditioning Feeding Guide for Ruminants

When feeding grain based products such as our FeedPro to all ruminants introductory feeding is necessary.

Introduction/Pre-conditioning is essential to avoid acidosis

Many factors can govern or limit performance of Aus Organic Feeds Rations, some examples are: weather, trough length per animal and availability of shade. Any limitations on feed intake will affect performance.

A slow introduction to ensure continued animal health is important. Increased feeding is discouraged as this can cause serious health issues or even death of the animal. Constant monitoring during the first 2 weeks will ensure any possible problems are noticed and identified.

IF THE ANIMALS HAVE NEVER BEEN GRAIN FED IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT A 6 WEEK INTRODUCTORY PERIOD IS USED.

Definitions

Self Feeders: a device for providing feed to livestock that is equipped with a feed hopper that automatically supplies a trough below.

Line Feeding: a simple feeding method where feed is spread evenly across a greater distance to stop shy feeding and bullying amongst animals. Most commonly described as feeding along the ground.

Fiber in the diet to be low to medium quality – forage – high quality not essential – to help settle the rumen to the new starch included into the diet.