BEEF HERD HEALTH

BY W. MARK HILTON, DVM

 When we think about keeping our beef cows healthy and productive, we often focus on the “big-ticket” items – good forage, plenty of clean water, and smart breeding strategies. But there’s one simple practice that’s often overlooked and yet absolutely critical: making sure your cows have access to a quality salt-mineral mixture 365 days a year.

Why it matters

Minerals are involved in nearly every function of a cow’s body. From reproduction and immune response to muscle function and milk production, the right minerals in the right amounts keep everything working smoothly.

When cows are short on key minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, copper, selenium, or zinc, you may not see a problem immediately, but make no mistake, problems are brewing. Poor conception rates, weak calves, retained placentas, and lowered immunity are just a few of the hidden costs of a mineral-deficient herd.

Cattle like children, do not “crave” the nutrients where they are deficient. If you ask your kids, “Would you like ice cream or Brussel sprouts with your hamburger? I am pretty sure they will choose ice cream. Cattle only know when they are deficient in Sodium, and that is why we always mix salt (Sodium chloride) with the minerals. Including salt in your mineral mix encourages consistent intake. Without salt, cows may under-consume mineral – even if it’s available.

If you have a three-compartment mineral feeder, the exact same salt-mineral mix should be placed in compartments 1, 2 and 3. Do not put different mixes in each section and expect the cows to consume what they need.

Seasonal needs vary, but access shouldn’t

Some producers think mineral is only important during certain times – breeding season or winter, for example. But that’s like saying a balanced diet only matters on Mondays. Cows need minerals all the time, even when grass is green and growing. Why?

- Spring and summer pastures can be low in magnesium, risking grass tetany in lactating cows.

- Fall and winter forages often lack phosphorus and vitamin A.

- High-moisture forages, like lush spring grass or silage, can throw off mineral balance, especially potassium levels, which impact magnesium absorption.

By offering a salt- mineral mix year-round, you protect your herd from seasonal imbalances and reduce the risk of costly health setbacks.

Choose the right mix

A one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it. Work with your veterinarian or nutritionist to pick a salt-mineral mix suited to your region’s forage and your herd’s needs. You will likely need a different product for different times of the year. Example: If you feed DDGS during the winter, they are very high in phosphorus, so you will need a low or no-phosphorus-added mineral during this time. Consider:

- Added vitamins A, D, and E during the winter.

- Chelated or organic trace minerals for improved absorption.

- Options with or without ionophores (like Rumensin®) depending on feeding strategies.

I read a research article on the cost-effectiveness of using chelated minerals, and the bottom line was that the more you expect of your cows, the more a chelated mineral mix pays for itself. Again, talk to your veterinarian or nutritionist for recommendations. Most livestock nutrition companies produce excellent products.   Let your advisers know your goals so they can suggest a product that fits your needs.

Ask for the research on their products to see if they fit your needs. I called a newer player in the market over a year ago and have also emailed them twice to ask for their research. Their lack of a response tells me something. Go with a proven company that has relevant research on its products.

A white salt block, a red trace mineral block, or even loose trace mineral salt is not adequate for our cattle. These products severely limit the productivity of your beef business. Midwest soils are generally deficient in selenium, copper, zinc and manganese. The above-mentioned products are all severely deficient in these critical nutrients.

I had a former DVM student call me and tell me about an ‘outbreak’ of dwarf calves in one of her herds. The owner was feeding trace mineral salt as his only “mineral” source, and liver biopsies of the cows showed they were severely deficient in manganese. Manganese is critical for the formation of bone from cartilage, and these calves lacked the manganese for proper bone development. 

Tips for success

- Keep it fresh: Clean and refill feeders regularly. Weekly is ideal.

- Protect it from the weather: Use covered feeders.

- Monitor intake: Most cows should consume about 2–4 ounces per head per day. Too much or too little might mean it’s time to tweak the formulation. Each time you put out mineral, note the amount and predict when it will be gone. If cows are overconsuming, adding plain salt will decrease intake. If they’re under-consuming, look first at the location of the feeders.

- Place feeders where cows naturally gather: Near water or loafing areas.

- If you are feeding something in the bunk, add the salt-mineral mix to the ration. Once winter comes around, and you are feeding hay and a grain mix in a bunk, top dress the salt-mineral mix on the ration. This way all the cows will consume the recommended amount. Also, be sure to have Rumensin in the ration to save about 10 percent of your hay.

The bottom line

Providing a balanced salt-mineral mix isn’t just a good idea – it’s a cornerstone of herd health and profitability. It’s low-cost insurance that pays off in more calves born on time, better weight gains, and fewer surprises come calving season.

Don’t let something as simple as mineral nutrition be the weak link in your beef business. Select a product that fits your goals and reap the benefits.