Creep Feeding Tips

Host: Joanna Coles, Warren County Extension Agent for Agriculture & Natural Resources

Guest: Dr. Jeff Lehmkuhler, UK Extension Beef Specialist

Topic: Creep Feeding Tips

The Farm and Home Show features Joanna Coles interviewing Dr. Jeff Leimkuhler, a University of Kentucky extension beef specialist, about creep feeding and calf nutrition. With recordhigh calf prices and relatively affordable feed costs, producers are looking for ways to add weight before selling calves. As cows reach peak milk production about eight weeks after calving, milk supply declines while calves’ nutritional needs continue to increase. During midsummer, forage quality often drops, making supplementation necessary to support optimal calf growth. Creep feeding helps bridge the nutritional gap and allows calves to reach their genetic potential before weaning. Producers must evaluate the economics carefully, as excessively fleshy calves can be discounted at sale time. Creep feeding can be done through hand feeding or by investing in a creep feeder, but intake must be managed. Proper creep feed rations focus on adequate protein and controlled energy to support lean growth while minimizing digestive problems. Dr. Leimkuhler recommends limiting starch sources like corn, avoiding wheat, and using digestible fiber sources such as soybean hulls to reduce risks of acidosis and bloat. Commercial creep feeds often use pelleted blends with fiber to prevent overconditioning, and calves should always have freechoice mineral available.

Видео Creep Feeding Tips канала Warren County Agriculture