By early May, grass is usually growing well and this will often be a welcome sight for many sheep and beef farmers. Making the most of low-cost summer grass should be an absolute priority and good gains in lambs and cattle is often easily achieved. At this time, well tillered grass is very nutritious, containing up to 24% crude protein (in DM), around 80 D-value and an ME of around 12.8 MJ/kg DM.
However, mineral, vitamin and trace element levels in spring/ summer grazing can be considerably variable which can affect animal health, performance and fertility. This may be more apparent this year as the heavy rainfall we have seen earlier in the season will have leached essential minerals and trace elements from soils and pastures.
Owens Nutrition Triple Attack is a high specification mineral, vitamin and trace element molassed bucket ideal for cattle and sheep during the grazing season. Triple Attack contains an optimal balance of minerals, vitamins and trace elements to complement deficiencies often found in grass. High levels of trace elements such as selenium, cobalt and zinc, including a protected source of zinc will support animal health and performance. In addition, vitamin B1 is included for where this is a risk of CCN (cerebrocorticol necrosis) and B12 helps support good growth rates on cobalt deficient pastures.
With summer fast approaching, it is also important to watch out for nuisance biting insects which disturb grazing and cause irritation to cattle and sheep. Garlic can be added to the above bucket to help naturally discourage pesky flies whilst providing an optimal range of minerals, vitamins and trace elements.
Offering a free-access mineral supplement this summer will help prevent any potential mineral deficiencies that may cause reduced animal performance and health issues and ensure animal can reach their full potential at grass.
