On top of the balanced mineral and vitamin nutrition provided by a quality mineral product, feed additives can help support cattle performance and health. From immune support to fly control, there are a variety of potential benefits when considering feed additives for a mineral product. 

Different types of additives to consider using in your mineral program include:  

Probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics

These alternatives to antibiotics have been shown to positively influence animal health and performance. Prebiotics feed the bugs (rumen microbes), and probiotics alter the microbial population by supporting the growth of beneficial bugs. Postbiotics are microbial byproducts that have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects and can enhance the animal’s immunity. Fungal, yeast, bacterial and enzyme additives are all examples of ingredients or compounds that can be added to a mineral mix.       

Feed-through fly control

An insect growth regulator (IGR) can be incorporated into mineral products to help manage horn fly infestations. When cattle consume mineral containing feed-through fly control, like Altosid^® (IGR), it passes through their system and into fresh manure, where horn flies lay their eggs.   Altosid^® (IGR) disrupts the horn fly life cycle by preventing pupae from developing into biting adult flies. An effective program keeps horn fly levels to fewer than 200 flies per animal. 

Antibiotics

Chlortetracycline (CTC) is an antibiotic additive frequently fed in loose mineral to control active infection of anaplasmosis and requires a veterinary feed directive (VFD). Cattle grazing pastures during the summer and fall are at risk of contracting anaplasmosis through insect vectors, like biting ticks and flies. If you use Altosid^® (IGR) to control flies, it can be fed in combination with chlortetracycline. Consult with your veterinarian before deciding to use antibiotics or medicated feed additives. 

Ionophores

These additives are used for improved feed efficiency and control of coccidiosis. Ionophore options approved for use in cattle and available in loose mineral include monensin (Rumensin^®) and lasalocid (Bovatec^®). The subclass of animal (lactating cow vs. growing beef steer) will determine the amount of ionophore provided. Feeding an ionophore in a beef cattle mineral is a safe and effective method of delivery, but it is critical to follow label instructions carefully to ensure adequate intake.

Additional supplementation of trace minerals

Cattle may require additional supplementation to address trace mineral deficiencies or to counteract antagonists that limit mineral absorption. Adding complexed trace minerals such as copper, zinc, manganese and cobalt with Zinpro^® Availa^® 4 can improve bioavailability and absorption.  Additionally, organic selenium can be included in the mineral mix when soil and forages are deficient in this essential trace element.  

Consumption is key

Consistent mineral intake is critical to ensure the animal realizes the full benefits of mineral additives. For mineral to be consumed consistently, it needs the three following abilities:

1. Palatability: Consistent mineral intake is critical to supply cattle with the daily nutrition of essential minerals and vitamins, so cattle eat what they need.
2. Bioavailability: It is important to consider the ability of mineral ingredients to be absorbed or used by cattle. Organic or complexed minerals are more bioavailable and support enhanced gut absorption.
3. Weatherability: Mineral with a large particle size and weather-resistant formula reduce mineral waste from wind and water.

Pairing additives with a quality mineral can provide multiple benefits for cattle performance to help your overall bottom line.

Does your cattle nutrition program stack up? Find out with a Purina^® Proof Pays^® feeding trial.