Block and Tub Supplements for Grazing Beef Cattle

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Submitted By Eve H. Honeycutt, Extension Livestock Agent, Lenoir and Greene Counties

Adapted from the Texas Agri-Life Extension Publication E-178

Block supplements are a convenient mechanism for delivering supplemental nutrients

to grazing beef cattle. As the labels on most blocks or tubs state, they are meant to

be used as supplements, not feeds. Success or failure of a block/tub supplementation

program will depend on the availability of forage. If forage is limited or of poor quality,

self-fed blocks or tubs cannot make up the nutrient deficit and are not formulated to do so.

Blocks and tubs have become increasingly

popular because:

• They are easy to store and handle.

• They are easily accessible.

• They require little labor.

• Minimal equipment is required.

• Consumption is self-limiting.

Blocks are particularly appealing to owners of the smallest herds of cattle (fewer than 50 cows) and owners of large operations of more than 300 cows. Many small producers have off-ranch employment and like the convenience and comfort of knowing supplement is continuously available. Large operators use blocks because they save time and labor. 

As with other supplements, blocks and tubs can vary widely in their cost, ingredient

composition, nutrient content, storage requirements and consumption characteristics.

Blocks and tubs generally can be divided into three categories based on the manufacturing method used.

• Pressed blocks- these blocks are usually the least expensive.  The can soften in moist and humid environments, leading cattle to eat more than necessary.  Mature cattle generally consume 1-4 pounds per day, depending on the hardness of the block.

• Chemically hardened blocks- these usually have a high mineral content, which can cause objectionable flavors.  They can also deteriorate during prolonged inclement weather, especially if they are packaged in cardboard.  Mature cattle normally consume 1-3 pounds daily.

• Low moisture (cooked) tubs- These are the most expensive of the three types however due to their uniform consumption, the cattle tend to eat less, ranging from 0.5-1.5 pounds per animal per day.  These tubs will absorb moisture from the air, so the container must be rigid and kept upright.

Block and tub supplements are an effective way to supplement nutritional needs in cattle, but they are not a forage substitute.  Forage must be available in adequate quantity and quality for any supplement to produce the desired results.  Supplements should be made available as soon as protein or energy deficiency is suspected and before noticeable loss of body condition.  Blocks and tubs should be moved around within a grazing area and placed near water or loafing areas to encourage consumption.