Managing intake variation to
maximize profits
Spring feeding frenzy impacts feed efficiency
Key points
As spring arrives, the days get longer, the weather becomes warmer
and dry-matter intake (DMI) in cattle increases (Chart 1). Good bunk
management practices can help maximize feed efficiency and profits.
• Based on the analysis of Elanco’s Benchmark database over
time, feed intake variation increases during spring months
During this “feeding frenzy,” cattle have an increased appetite.
Compared to an average 12-hour day, DMI increases 1.5 to
2 percent during long-day months.1 This increased appetite and DMI
may seem beneficial to a feedyard looking to add pounds. However,
research and experience has shown that unmanaged intake alters
feed conversion throughout feed-out (Table 1).2 Increased DMI and
intake variation are also associated with a higher incidence of ruminal
acidosis, liver abscesses, digestive disorders and related death loss.
• Research shows increased intake variation has a negative
effect on feed conversion
•Elanco offers data analysis and feedyard solutions to help
you make profitable decisions
Table 1. Intake variation impact on closeout2
DMI, lbs
Constant intake
DMI, lbs
Variable intake
Daily gain, lbs
Constant intake
Daily gain, lbs
Variable intake
Percent
difference
0-84
17.2
17.2
3.23a
3.02b
-7%
Feed efficiency
Constant intake
5.33a
Feed efficiency
Variable intake
5.70b
Percent
difference
7%
Values differ by (P < 0.10).
Feeding frenzy bunk management
Feedyard operators should work with their consulting
nutritionist to prevent intake variation all year round, but
especially during the spring. Nutritionists can help confirm
proper ration formulations and develop bunk management
strategies to prevent intake variation. Rations should include
high quality and correctly proportioned forages, feed
ingredients and concentrates, as well as recommended
levels of nutrients and feed additives. Managing the bunk
to promote consistent feed intake and feed efficiency
maximizes profit potential.
Elanco, your data resource
Using the Benchmark® database, Elanco can review historical
industry and yard-specific intake information and work with you
to identify profitable opportunities for continuous improvement
on your operation. Contact your Elanco rep to discuss what we’re
learning from Benchmark and how it could apply to your operation.
Chart 1. Average dry-matter intake (lbs) summary, 2003-20133
23
Dry-matter intake, lbs
ab
Days on feed
22
21
20
19
18
17
Jan.
Feb.
March
April
May
June
July
Steer Average = 21.0
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Heifer Average = 19.6
Increased day length during the spring months affects
DMI in both steers and heifers.
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what drives our experts and the full value of a true partnership at
Elanco.us/why.
1
Galyean, M. L. & M. E. Hubbert. 1995. Effects on season, health and management on feed intake by beef
cattle. FN Owens, Ed. Symposium: Intake by Feedlot Cattle, pp. 226-234. Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment
Station P-942, Stillwater, Ok.
2
Galyean, M. L. 1992. Effects of varying the pattern of feed consumption on performance by programmed-fed
beef steers. Clayton Livestock Research Center Progress Report 78.
3
A Benchmark analysis of average dry-matter intake for steers and heifers from 2003 to 2013.
Elanco, Benchmark®, Full Value Beef and the diagonal bar
are trademarks owned or licensed by Eli Lilly and Company,
its subsidiaries or affiliates.
© 2014 Elanco Animal Health.
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