Why Homogeneous Ration Mixing Matters for Cattle Operations
An uneven mix lets cattle selectively feed, which can hurt herd-wide performance. Here is how to improve mix quality.
The Risks of an Uneven Mix
When a mix is not homogeneous, cattle can selectively eat certain ingredients, causing some animals to get excess energy while others are undernourished — a herd-wide performance risk.
How the Mixing System Affects Homogeneity
A double-auger or horizontal mixing system moves the mix multi-directionally, improving homogeneity. The order ingredients are added (roughage first, then concentrate and additives) also affects final mix quality.
Staying True to the Formulation With a Weighing System
A weighing system ensures each ingredient is added in the targeted amount, reducing deviation from the ration formulation and forming the foundation of a homogeneous mix.
Regular Monitoring
Visually checking the mix and observing feeding behavior helps catch homogeneity issues early.
