Cattle feeding during the wet season: phosphorus supplementation

During the wet season especially in phosphorus deficient countries such as Botswana when the energy and protein levels in the feed are high the need for phosphorus increases as it becomes the limiting nutrient.

Limiting nutrient means this nutrient limits the ability of the animal to reach the performance target.

When fed phosphorus during the wet season cattle can show a great response with improved live-weight gain, improved fertility, and increased milk production.

The major impact of phosphorus is reduction of appetite which leads to low weaning rates and increased mortality.

Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency:

1. Lameness.

2. Poor growth rate/ retarded growth rate in young cattle - wonder why your young animals are not growing check their phosphorus level.

3. Peg leg.

4. Stiff gait.

5. BOTULISM may be encountered in phosphorus deficient cattle from chewing bones.

Choosing phosphorus supplements

Assess using:

1. Cost.

2. Infrastructure requirements.

3. Practicalities of feeding.

Sources of phosphorus

1. Loose licks.

2. Liquid supplements.

3. Blocks.

4. Water medications.

Loose licks (P8 + Sulphur): This supplement contains magnesium and sulphur and is affordable as it does not even require the extra cost of buying salt.

Magnesium helps to reduce diseases such as Grass tetany and Milk fever.

Sulphur helps to eliminate chemicals such as prussic acid and is crucial for weight gain in animals.

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