The price of lean cattle in the market is typically low, but with proper care and management, they can reach their full growth potential. Selling these animals as fattened beef cattle can bring significant economic returns and offer a practical path for farmers to escape poverty. However, to maximize profits, it's essential to follow several key practices during the fattening process.
First, selecting the right cattle is crucial. Look for lean cows that have the potential to gain weight quickly. These might be animals that were previously underfed or poorly managed. Avoid buying old, sick, or weak cattle, especially those suffering from digestive or infectious diseases.
Second, provide a comfortable living environment. A clean, quiet, and well-ventilated barn helps reduce stress and supports better growth.
Third, group the cattle properly. Sort them by age, sex, and condition to make feeding and management more efficient and allow for tailored feed adjustments.
Fourth, ensure good health. Before starting the fattening process, thoroughly examine the cattle, treat any parasites, and use digestive aids to improve appetite and digestion.
Fifth, feed them properly. The diet should be balanced, nutritious, and easy to digest. Cook corn, bran, and soybean meal for better absorption. Treat straw with ammonia or silage to increase its value. Use fresh, clean green feeds and chop root vegetables like sweet potatoes. In dry seasons, supplement with green fodder or silage.
Sixth, provide clean and warm water. Ensure the water is not too cold or contaminated, and add a small amount of salt to encourage drinking. Avoid allowing the cattle to drink large amounts at once after being thirsty.
Seventh, limit physical activity. Reduce exercise to conserve energy, but keep the animals clean by brushing them regularly.
Eighth, prevent diseases. Lean cattle are more susceptible to illness due to weakened immunity. Monitor their behavior and adjust feed accordingly. Keep the environment clean and manage waste effectively to prevent disease outbreaks.
Ninth, use feed additives wisely. Additives can enhance feed efficiency and speed up weight gain, but should be used based on the specific needs of the herd.
Tenth, know when to slaughter. Monitor the cattle’s growth and weight regularly. When they look healthy and their growth slows down, it may be time to sell. If market conditions are favorable, don’t hesitate to proceed with slaughter promptly.