Winter Feeding: Experts weigh in on cold-weather nutrition considerations

As temperatures dip and winter weather begins to move in, cattle producers should turn their attention to forming a winter-feeding strategy which best fits the needs of their herd. 

Winter feeding strategies look different from operation to operation and can vary based on a multitude of conditions. 

However, across the board, primary emphasis should be placed on understanding and meeting nutritional needs to ensure a successful winter season.

Meeting nutritional needs

In a Nov. 15 BEEF Magazine article titled “Nutrition is the fuel to drive animal performance,” Director of Research and Nutrition New Generation Supplements Dr. Paul Davis emphasizes energy, protein, vitamins, minerals and water are the nutritional fuel behind animal performance. 

These factors are important year-round, but especially in winter, since cattle regulate their body temperature by consuming feed. Plentiful forage with adequate nutrients is key to keeping herds healthy throughout cold winter months.

Protein is particularly essential for cattle growth and should be prioritized in winter feeding.

The critical nutrient affects everything from rumen microbial activity and digestion to growth and reproductive health, according to a Dec. 4, 2024 Vitaferm article titled “A Guide to Feeding Cattle in Winter: The Importance of Protein Supplementation.”

Vitaferm notes popular winter forage options like crop residues and native pastures are often high in fiber but lacking in protein and energy, leading to lower digestibility and, consequently, lower consumption. 

In these cases, producers should consider supplementing lower-quality forages with protein-rich supplements like alfalfa hay, soybean meal or commercial supplements for an additional source of energy and protein. 

When possible, BEEF Magazine encourages producers to prioritize animal performance over cutting input costs, stating although supplements may come with a steep price tag initially, they will pay off in the end by keeping cattle healthy and well fed.

“It’s cheaper to keep an animal in good condition than at lowered production or no production,” emphasizes Davis. 

Strategies for supplements

Protein requirements for cattle fluctuate based on environmental conditions and gestation stage and may need to be adjusted as winter progresses.

In a Nov. 7 High Plains Journal article by Lacey Vilhauer, Oklahoma State University Extension Livestock Specialist Dana Zook recommends consulting with a nutritionist or Extension specialist before introducing a new supplement to any program.

Zook further highlights alfalfa as an effective supplement, but cautions producers to be diligent when feeding, noting the richness of alfalfa can cause upset stomachs if introduced improperly.

To combat this, Zook recommends producers stick with alfalfa as a supplement only, feeding it every third day or as recommended by a nutritionist. 

Zook also stresses the importance of storing hay and other supplements properly to avoid damage and checking supplements for signs of spoilage before feeding. 

If feeding hay as a supplement, testing bales can help producers get a better understanding of their crop and whether it is enough to meet nutritional needs. 

Samples are collected through hay probes which can be checked out from local University of Wyoming Extension offices and mailed to labs for testing. 

After being tested for protein, energy and mineral levels, producers can make a plan for incorporating hay into their feed programs.

Additionally, Zook notes alfalfa cubes pack a nutritional punch in a convenient package, although they can be slightly more expensive than bales. 

Overall, she recommends tailoring the supplement option to the operation, reemphasizing the importance of working with a nutritionist or other professional before incorporating any form of supplement.

Additional considerations

Even in cold weather, water intake continues to be a crucial aspect of animal health. Making sure water is easily accessible and free from ice is another important part of winter feeding regimens. 

Also, shelterbelts and windbreaks can help provide essential cover from the cold, biting winds which tend to mark Wyoming in the wintertime. 

Overall, a balanced feeding ration complimented by tailored supplements can help producers maintain healthy, happy herds all season long. 

Grace Skavdahl is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.