Elanco-Rumensin: Improving Gain for Less
By: Elanco
More weight, bigger profits
With today’s tight margins, improving weight gain in pasture cattle is critical for the profitability of your herd. One of the most effective ways to do that is with a proven product like Rumensin®.
“Stocker producers continue to see the benefit of using Rumensin in their herds,” said Frank White, Ph.D., PAS and Elanco technical consultant. “For just pennies per head per day, stocker producers can see a gain of 20 pounds or more per head over a 100-day grazing period.”1
Cattle receiving Rumensin consistently see improved average daily gain (ADG)1 because they are getting the most from their available diet — even across different pasture types.2
Improved gain with less intake
Studies over the years have shown that Rumensin helps deliver consistent value by reducing supplementation costs without negatively impacting performance.3
“In a two-year study conducted in Oklahoma, Rumensin was compared to three alternatives: no mineral, a balanced mineral, and Bovatec® with a mineral,” said White. “That study demonstrated that cattle supplemented with Rumensin outperformed the other groups, delivering improved ADG and increased profitability while consuming less mineral.”3
As shown in the table below, a pooled summary of seven trials conducted on different pasture types demonstrated that Rumensin at 150 mg/hd/d performed slightly better than Bovatec at 200 mg/hd/d, with average gains of 1.87 and 1.81, respectively.2 In Kansas, a study demonstrated that there were no significant differences in daily gain between treatments even though Rumensin mineral consumption was 43% lower than Bovatec with Aureomycin®.4
“Over the years, we’ve heard some concerns from producers about feed intake when they use Rumensin,” said White. “However, the research continues to demonstrate that if the product is implemented correctly, Rumensin consistently delivers ADG at higher rates than its competitors.”
Best Rumensin implementation practices
Proper implementation of Rumensin results in improved feed efficiency, due to the potency and mode of action. As dose is increased, there is a slight reduction in intake. However, this demonstrates that Rumensin is altering the ruminal environment to better absorb the valuable nutrients from less feed because cattle continue to gain additional weight.
“If the proper dose and/or adaptation period is observed, there should be no concern with intake,” said White. “It’s important to work with your nutrient supplier or Elanco representative to ensure that you’re stepping up the product use according to the best formulation for your herd.”
For more information, reach out to your Elanco sales representative or Stutsmans feed representative.
The label contains complete use information, including cautions and warnings. Always read, understand and follow label and use directions.
CAUTION: Consumption by unapproved species or feeding undiluted may be toxic or fatal. Do not feed to veal calves. Rumensin is indicated for:
• Growing cattle on pasture or in drylot (stockers, feeders, and dairy and beef replacement heifers): increased rate of weight gain and the prevention and control of coccidiosis due to Eimeria bovis and Eimeria zuernii
• Cattle fed in confinement for slaughter: improved feed efficiency and the prevention and control of coccidiosis due to Eimeria bovis and Eimeria zuernii
• Mature reproducing beef cows: improved feed efficiency when receiving supplemental feed and the prevention and control of coccidiosis due to Eimeria bovis and Eimeria zuernii