When feeding low-quality forage, which vitamin should be supplemented in cattle diets?

In situations where cattle are being fed low-quality forage, supplementing Vitamin A is crucial. Low-quality forages often lack the necessary levels of carotenoids, which are the precursors to Vitamin A. This deficiency can lead to various health issues in cattle, including eye problems, poor reproductive performance, and overall reduced immune function.

Vitamin A plays a pivotal role in maintaining good vision, supporting the immune system, and ensuring the proper functioning of several bodily processes. It is particularly important for cattle because they rely on it for maintaining health and achieving optimal growth or milk production. Inadequate intake of Vitamin A due to poor forage quality can compromise these essential functions, leading to long-term health issues in the herd.

Thus, when dealing with low-quality forage, ensuring adequate Vitamin A in the diet of cattle is an effective management practice to prevent deficiencies and promote overall animal health.