Most importantly, a balanced diet for beef cattle includes a combination of forage, concentrates, and supplements. Forage provides fiber and roughage, concentrates provide energy and protein, and supplements ensure proper nutrient intake. By incorporating these different feed types, beef cattle can thrive and reach their full potential.

Beef cattle intakes can range from 2 to 3.5 percent of body weight (BW) on a dry matter (DM) basis, with young calves consuming more than older cattle. Feeding predominantly fiber, or a forage-based diet, will limit cattle intakes closer to 2 percent of their BW.