A well-rounded diet for your wildlife means healthy animals on your property, with protein being an essential part of that diet. Adding it to your livestock feed will make the difference in the wellness of the animals in your care as well as other animals on your land. Here are a few reasons why you should include protein in feeders.

Why Protein?

Benefits of Protein

When selecting your livestock feed for cattle, deer, or other animals on your property, make sure protein is included in your mix. Protein is an essential ingredient for organ growth and critical physiological functions. While animals will forage for their food source of choice, ensuring they are getting a balanced diet, especially in cold weather or when sustenance is limited, will keep them stable and strong year-round.

Why Feed the Deer?

Feeding deer with a high protein and fiber diet will help them stay healthy all year-round, even during the winter months. Avoiding corn feed and choosing nutritious blends that incorporate protein and fiber will help these animals avoid illnesses and diseases. One issue that deer may face is too many carbohydrates leading to something called “corn toxicity” and a buildup of lactic acid or dehydration. All of these things can be fatal to the deer population.  

For those with deer on their property, creating an ideal environment for these animals means quality supplemental feeding to maintain or increase the deer population in an area. In general, experts agree that incorporating 16% crude protein into livestock feed is sufficient, with younger deer requiring 18 to 20% for optimal maturity. Couple this with minerals such as calcium and phosphorous, and you have a good blend for healthy deer.

For quality farm supplies and livestock feed, head to Gregg Farm Services. Located in Gassville, AR, the feed store’s extensive inventory makes it easy to find everything you need to keep your property in top shape. Farmers, gardeners, and animal lovers alike agree that their affordable products and friendly staff make them the store to turn to when you need the best in outdoor equipment and supplies. Call their knowledgeable team at (870) 481-5165 or visit their website for updates and specials. Join them on Saturday, August 11 at the Baxter County fairgrounds for Gregg’s Wildlife Expo from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.