Feeding Whole Corn Vs Cracked Corn To Cattle
Feeding cattle is a critical aspect of raising healthy and profitable livestock. One of the common feeding practices is providing corn. Corn is a popular feed grain for cattle that is available in both whole and cracked forms. However, there is a debate on whether feeding whole corn or cracked corn to cattle is better. In this article, we will explore the differences between feeding whole corn vs. cracked corn to cattle and their effects on the animals' health and production.
Whole Corn Feeding
Whole corn is natural corn kernels with the shell intact. Farmers who choose whole corn to feed their cattle believe that it is the most natural way of feeding their livestock because it provides the cattle with an excellent source of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. Also, whole corn has a lower risk of spoilage than other grains because of its protective outer shell.
Feeding whole corn to cattle has a few downsides. The biggest disadvantage is that cattle cannot digest the whole kernel, so they will pass it out in their manure. Also, cattle tend to sort through their food and tend to eat the other grains in their feed first, leaving the whole corn behind, which can cause waste and result in an inadequate diet. Whole corn is also more challenging to grind, and it requires specialized equipment for processing. Farmers need to ensure that their cattle have access to plenty of water when feeding them whole corn because it can cause dehydration, especially in the hot summer months.
Cracked Corn Feeding
Cracked corn is whole corn kernels that have been cracked into smaller pieces. Farmers who choose cracked corn believe it is easier to feed to their cattle because it is more digestible and easier for the cattle to consume than whole corn. The smaller size of the corn also prevents cattle from sorting through their food and helps ensure that they eat a complete diet.
Feeding cracked corn to cattle also has a few downsides. One of the disadvantages is that cracked corn has a higher risk of spoilage than whole corn because the protective shell has been removed. Also, the smaller size of the corn particles can lead to dustiness, which can cause respiratory problems in some cattle. Lastly, cracked corn is more expensive than whole corn because of the processing required to create it.
Which is Better: Whole Corn or Cracked Corn?
Both whole corn and cracked corn have their advantages and disadvantages when feeding cattle. Ultimately, the decision of which to feed depends on the farmer's preference, the cattle's health and dietary needs, and the availability and cost of the feed grain. Whole corn may be suitable for farmers who want to provide their cattle with the most natural form of food, while cracked corn may be ideal for those who want to prevent waste and ensure that their cattle consume a complete diet.
It is important to note that feeding cows corn as a primary feed source can lead to health issues like acidosis, which can damage the cow's digestive system. Farmers should ensure that they balance their cattle's diet with other feed sources like hay, silage, and protein supplements to provide a balanced diet and prevent health problems.
Conclusion
Feeding whole corn or cracked corn to cattle can provide a valuable source of nutrition for the animals. However, farmers must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each type of feed grain and determine which option is best suited for their cattle. To ensure the health and well-being of the animals, farmers must provide a balanced diet and monitor their cattle for any dietary and health issues.