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In the limit-fed rations based on corn: Can the protein supplement be whole soybeans? With the soybeans, do we need the additional vitamin A? Should we have a protein lick tub for the cows? Is the limestone a must?

Last Updated: March 06, 2008

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We would recommend to feed the corn whole. This will slow down rumen digestion, which is good. You can feed whole soybeans as the protein source and, because the beans are not processed, they still contain fat, which is high in energy. For cows, we would recommend not feeding more than 3.5 lb per head per day, but it really depends on what other ingredients you have in the ration. If you feed whole beans, you do not need another protein source. For forage, if you are feeding alfalfa, the soybeans don't fit in the ration because you would be overfeeding protein. If a free-choice mineral is being fed, it should contain vitamin A, so there should be plenty of vitamin A, but check the tag to be sure. The need for extra calcium depends on the amount of grain in the ration. You may not need calcium if you are going to feed 3 to 4 lb of corn per head per day. If higher amounts of grain are to be included, a "free-choice" mineral that is higher in calcium than phosphorus would be an option. You might start out feeding the corn/bean ration twice a day, half in the morning and half in the evening. Make sure there is plenty of bunk space so that all cows have access to the ration.

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