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Alfalfa
pellets and cubes can form a significant part of rations that meet the
nutrient requirements of beef cattle. Both pellets and cubes are
excellent sources of essential nutrients necessary for cow health and
productivity as well as improved growth in young animals. Processed
alfalfa products will produce rates of gain and feed conversion values
comparable or superior to other protein supplements.
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Cubes
can be used as the only source of roughage for all classes of beef
cattle. Animals obtain good growth and development on barley- or
corn-based diets which contain up to 60 percent alfalfa cubes as the
only roughage source.
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Alfalfa
hay cubes can be used to provide the total roughage requirements
for mature stock and growing cattle. Dr. Vern Racz, Feed Resource
Centre, University of Saskatchewan
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Selenium
is of high availability in Canadian alfalfa products and is important
in preventing white muscle disease.
The good balance of protein and energy in alfalfa products makes
them ideally suited to beef cattle diets, utilizing low quality forages
to improve overall forage digestibility and quality.
Young, rapidly growing beef cattle benefit from bypass protein
in their diets. Dehydrated alfalfa pellets are a good source of bypass
protein for cattle.
The balanced fibre composition in alfalfa products ensures
optimal rumen microbial activity and feed intake.
Alfalfa pellets are consumed in greater quantities than long
hay. Consequently, more total nutrients are consumed, resulting in
faster and more efficient weight gains.
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Reduced
feed wastage - cubes and pellets are not wasted even when fed on the
ground, whereas 20% or more of long hay is wasted when fed on the
ground.
Consistent nutrient quality - There is little variation in cube
texture and nutrient levels within shipments because of consistent
standards which are maintained.
Ease of handling - mechanized handling equipment can be used
easily.
Intake control - producers can monitor and regulate daily
roughage intakes easier than with long hay.
Storage requirements are reduced - because of a higher bulk
density, cubes and pellets require less storage area.
Reduced transportation cost - increased bulk density means more
tons can be hauled, thereby decreasing transportation costs.
Dust is reduced - alfalfa cubes and pellets are dust-free,
reducing risk of respiratory irritation.
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Feedlot
Finishing Rations:
up to 15 percent dehydrated or suncured alfalfa pellets may be
included as a protein and fibre source.
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Beef
Cow and Growing Calf Rations:
feed 2-3 kg daily of dehydrated alfalfa pellets to supplement
low quality forage.
use up to 5 kg daily of suncured alfalfa pellets as the major
forage source in winter rations.
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Bulls:
blending alfalfa pellets in the ration will help keep bulls in top
condition without becoming overly fat.
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Show
Cattle:
feeding 1.5-2.0 kg daily promotes health and growth, a definite
advantage in the show ring.
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