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Can antibiotics be used in free-choice mineral mixtures for grazing cattle?

Last Updated: March 06, 2008

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Yes. Antibiotics can be fed in mineral mixtures for grazing cattle to improve performance and reduce health problems. Stockers fed antibiotics typically gain 0.15 pounds/day faster, with a marked reduction in foot rot and pinkeye problems.

Research also shows that antibiotics in mineral mixtures for cows are effective in preventing certain diseases, such as anaplasmosis, and improving weaning weights by 15 to 20 pounds. The commonly recommended antibiotic level for grazing cattle is 350 mg/head/day. For anaplasmosis control, the recommended antibiotic level is 350 mg/head daily for cattle up to 700 pounds, and 0.5 mg/pound for cattle over 700 pounds.

Before formulating a medicated mineral mixture, read the antibiotic label and add the proper dosage in accordance with intended use.

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