Understanding Cattle Feed Bunks: Types and Management

By Dr. Zubair Khalid, DVM, MS, PhD ·

Understanding Cattle Feed Bunks: Types and Management

Key Takeaways

  • Optimal bunk space per animal is critical for efficient feed utilization and weight gain, ranging from 24-30 inches for mature cows, 18-24 inches for calves, and a reduced 9-12 inches for feedlot cattle on continuous feeding.
  • Concrete is the preferred material for most operations due to its durability, ease of cleaning, and resistance to damage, offering a lifespan of 20 years or more with proper maintenance.
  • Feed waste is primarily caused by improper bunk height (too low allows pushing feed out) and poor feed distribution, rather than the bunk material itself, necessitating careful height adjustment to brisket level.
  • Feeding frequency impacts feed freshness and intake; while once daily is common, twice daily feeding can reduce sorting and maintain feed palatability, especially in hot weather.
  • Regular bunk cleaning, at least weekly (more often in adverse conditions), is essential to remove uneaten feed and debris, preventing mold, bacteria, and subsequent digestive upsets or mycotoxin exposure.
  • Inconsistent feeding times can lead to cattle stress and reduced intake, indicated by crowding the bunk and vocalization before feeding, highlighting the importance of a consistent schedule.

Feed bunks are the frontline of any cattle feeding operation. They determine how much feed is wasted, how evenly cattle gain weight, and how much labor you spend on feeding chores. This guide covers the main types of cattle feed bunks, how to choose between them, how to manage them for minimal waste, and how to size them correctly for your herd. It is written for beef cattle producers who want practical, field-ready information they can apply to their own operation, whether they run a small cow-calf herd or a large feedlot.

At a Glance

TopicKey Takeaway
Bunk space per animal24 to 30 inches for mature cattle, 18 to 24 inches for calves, 9 to 12 inches for feedlot cattle on continuous feeding
Best material for most operationsConcrete, because it is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to damage
Biggest cause of feed wasteImproper bunk height and poor feed distribution, not the bunk material itself
Feeding frequencyOnce daily works for most operations, twice daily reduces sorting and keeps feed fresher in hot weather
Bunk cleaning scheduleRemove uneaten feed and debris at least weekly, more often in wet or hot conditions
Common mistakeBuilding bunks too low, which allows cattle to push feed onto the ground
Sign of troubleCattle crowding the bunk line and bawling before feeding time can indicate inconsistent feeding times
When to call for helpIf several cattle go off feed at once, contact your veterinarian or extension agent

Why Feed Bunk Design and Management Matter

The feed bunk is where your feed investment becomes beef. Every pound of feed that ends up on the ground instead of in a cow is a direct loss. Feed costs make up 50 to 70 percent of the total cost of producing beef, so small improvements in bunk management can have a large effect on your bottom line.

Feed bunks also influence animal health. Cattle that cannot access feed comfortably may eat less, lose condition, or develop digestive upsets when they finally do eat. Bunks that are too high or too low can cause neck and back strain. Bunks that are not cleaned regularly can harbor mold and bacteria that make cattle sick.

Finally, feed bunks affect labor. A well-designed bunk system lets you feed quickly and safely. A poorly designed one forces you to spend extra time cleaning, repairing, and managing feed waste.

This guide covers the types of bunks available, how to choose the right one, how to manage them day to day, and how to recognize when something is wrong.

Types of Cattle Feed Bunks

There are four main categories of cattle feed bunks: concrete bunks, portable bunks, metal bunks, and tire bunks. Within each category there are variations in height, width, and design. Each type has strengths and weaknesses that matter for different operations.

Concrete Bunks

Concrete bunks are the most common permanent bunk used in cattle operations. They consist of a concrete trough, usually with a vertical or slightly sloped back wall and a lower front wall that cattle reach over. The floor of the bunk is typically 6 to 8 inches below the top of the back wall.

Concrete bunks are durable and can last 20 years or more with proper maintenance. They do not rust, rot, or get chewed by cattle. They are heavy enough that cattle cannot move them, and they can be built to any length.

The main downside of concrete bunks is that they are expensive to install. You need forms, rebar, and a concrete pour, which usually requires professional help. Once poured, they are permanent, so you cannot rearrange your feeding area easily.

Concrete bunks work best for operations that have a fixed feeding location and plan to feed in that spot for many years. They are ideal for feedlots, backgrounding yards, and drylot cow-calf operations.

Portable Bunks

Portable bunks are freestanding units that can be moved with a tractor or pickup. They are usually made of metal or heavy plastic and come in sections that are 8 to 16 feet long. Portable bunks are common in pasture-based operations where cattle are rotated between paddocks.

The main advantage of portable bunks is flexibility. You can move them to wherever you need to feed, which allows you to spread manure away from your main paddock and reduce mud problems. Portable bunks also let you feed cattle on pasture without building permanent infrastructure.

The downside is that portable bunks are less durable than concrete. Metal bunks can rust, and plastic bunks can crack in extreme cold. They also need to be moved regularly, which takes time and equipment. Cattle can tip portable bunks over if the bunks are not anchored or if the herd is aggressive.

Portable bunks are a good choice for small to medium operations that rotationally graze and want flexibility in their feeding setup.

Metal Bunks

Metal bunks are usually made of galvanized steel or heavy-gauge sheet metal. They can be either permanent or portable. Metal bunks are lighter than concrete but heavier than plastic, which makes them a middle-ground option.

Galvanized metal bunks resist rust well, but they can still corrode over time, especially if they are in contact with wet soil or manure. Metal bunks can also dent or bend if cattle push against them hard or if equipment hits them.

Metal bunks are less expensive than concrete but more expensive than plastic. They are a reasonable choice for operations that want a durable bunk without the cost of a concrete pour.

Tire Bunks

Tire bunks are made from recycled tractor or truck tires that are split in half lengthwise and mounted on a frame. They are the cheapest type of feed bunk and are commonly used in small operations or as temporary feeding stations.

Tire bunks are flexible and can be moved easily. They do not rust or rot, and they are nearly indestructible. However, they are not as easy to clean as concrete or metal bunks because the rubber surface is rougher and can trap feed particles.

The main disadvantage of tire bunks is that they are not tall enough for mature cattle. The sidewalls of most tires are only 12 to 18 inches high, which is too low for adult cattle to eat from comfortably. Tire bunks work best for calves or as temporary bunks for weaning.

Bunk Design Features to Consider

Beyond the basic material, there are several design features that affect how well a bunk works.

Bunk height. The height of the bunk should match the size of the cattle you feed. The top of the bunk should be at the height of the cow's brisket or slightly below. For mature beef cows, that is usually 24 to 30 inches from the ground to the top of the bunk. For calves, it is 18 to 24 inches. For feedlot cattle, the bunk top is usually 18 to 24 inches.

If the bunk is too high, cattle have to stretch their necks upward to reach feed, which can cause discomfort and reduce feed intake. If the bunk is too low, cattle have to lower their heads too far, which can also cause strain and makes it easier for them to push feed out of the bunk.

Bunk width. The width of the bunk floor should be about 24 to 30 inches for mature cattle. This gives them room to eat without crowding each other. The front wall should be 12 to 18 inches high, which is low enough for cattle to reach over but high enough to keep feed in the bunk.

Bunk slope. The floor of the bunk should slope slightly toward the cattle, about 1 to 2 inches over the width of the bunk. This slope helps feed stay in the bunk and makes it easier for cattle to reach the last bit of feed.

Smooth surfaces. The inside of the bunk should be smooth, with no sharp corners or rough patches. Rough surfaces trap feed and are hard to clean. They can also injure cattle tongues and mouths.

Drainage. The area around the bunk should be well drained. Mud and standing water around bunks make it hard for cattle to stand comfortably while eating and can contaminate feed.

Feed Bunk Management

Having the right bunk is only half the job. How you manage the bunk day to day determines how much feed is wasted and how healthy your cattle stay.

Sizing Your Bunk for Your Herd

Bunk space requirements depend on the type of cattle you feed and your feeding schedule. The following guidelines are a starting point, but you should adjust based on your own observations.

Mature beef cows. When feeding mature cows once daily, provide 24 to 30 inches of bunk space per cow. If you feed every other day or less frequently, increase the space to 30 to 36 inches per cow. This extra space reduces competition and ensures that timid cows get enough feed.

Calves and yearlings. Provide 18 to 24 inches of bunk space per calf. Calves are still growing and need to eat frequently, so they should not have to compete too hard for bunk space.

Feedlot cattle. Feedlot cattle that are fed continuously can get by with 9 to 12 inches of bunk space per head. This is because they have access to feed most of the day, so they do not need to eat as much at any one time. However, if you feed only once or twice daily, increase the space to 18 to 24 inches.

Bulls. Mature bulls need more space than cows. Provide at least 36 inches of bunk space per bull to reduce aggression and allow them to eat comfortably.

Rule of thumb. If you see cattle fighting or pushing each other away from the bunk, you need more space. If you see feed left in the bunk for hours after feeding, you may have too much space, which is not a problem except that it wastes bunk capacity.

Feeding Frequency and Timing

Most beef operations feed cattle once daily. This works well for cows and backgrounding cattle. Feeding at the same time every day trains cattle to expect feed and reduces stress.

Feeding twice daily has some advantages. It keeps feed fresher, reduces sorting, and can improve feed intake in hot weather when cattle are reluctant to eat during the heat of the day. Twice-daily feeding is common in feedlots and in dairies.

When you feed depends on your labor and facilities. Many producers feed in the morning, which allows them to check cattle during daylight hours. Others feed in the evening, which can reduce heat stress in summer because cattle eat more during cooler hours.

The most important thing is to be consistent. Cattle that are fed at the same time every day will be waiting at the bunk, and they will eat more readily than cattle that are fed at irregular times.

How Much Feed to Put in the Bunk

The amount of feed you put in the bunk depends on the class of cattle, their stage of production, and the type of feed. The goal is to give cattle enough feed to meet their needs without leaving so much that it goes stale or is wasted.

For cows and backgrounding cattle, a common approach is to feed enough that there is a small amount of feed left in the bunk just before the next feeding. This is called a "clean bunk" approach. It tells you that cattle are eating well and that you are not overfeeding.

For feedlot cattle, many operations use a slick bunk approach, where the bunk is empty or nearly empty at each feeding time. This encourages aggressive feed intake and reduces the risk of feed going stale. However, it requires careful monitoring to ensure that cattle are not going without feed for too long.

A third approach is the "bunk scoring" method used in many feedlots. You assign a score to the amount of feed left in the bunk before feeding, from 0 (empty) to 5 (full). You then adjust the amount you feed based on the score. This method takes practice but can help you fine-tune feed deliveries.

Avoiding Feed Waste

Feed waste is the biggest source of lost profit in cattle feeding. Studies from university extension services suggest that feed waste can range from 3 to 15 percent or more, depending on the bunk type and management.

The main causes of feed waste are:

Bunk height mismatch. If the bunk is too low for the cattle, they can easily push feed over the front wall and onto the ground. This is the most common cause of feed waste.

Overfilling. If you put too much feed in the bunk, cattle will sort through it and push the less palatable parts out. Feed that sits in the bunk for more than a few hours also loses moisture and palatability.

Poor feed distribution. If you dump feed in one spot, cattle will crowd around that spot and push feed out while other parts of the bunk stay empty. Spread feed evenly along the entire length of the bunk.

Feed that is too finely ground. Finely ground feed is more likely to be pushed out of the bunk or blown away by wind. Coarse feeds stay in the bunk better.

Wind. In open areas, wind can blow light feed out of bunks. A windbreak or a bunk with a higher back wall can reduce this problem.

To reduce waste, check the area around your bunks regularly. If you see significant amounts of feed on the ground, investigate the cause. It may be that your bunk height is wrong, that you are overfilling, or that your feed is too dry or too finely processed.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Feed bunks need regular cleaning to keep feed fresh and to prevent the buildup of mold and bacteria.

Daily cleaning. At each feeding, remove any uneaten feed from the previous feeding. This is especially important in hot, humid weather when feed can spoil quickly. You can feed the leftover feed to other animals or compost it.

Weekly cleaning. Once a week, brush or scrape the inside of the bunk to remove dried feed and debris. Use a stiff brush or a pressure washer if available. Pay attention to corners and seams where feed can accumulate.

Seasonal cleaning. At least once a year, do a thorough cleaning of all bunks. This includes removing all accumulated feed, scrubbing the surfaces, and inspecting for damage. This is a good time to repair cracks in concrete bunks, replace rusted sections in metal bunks, and check the area around the bunks for drainage problems.

Repairing damage. Concrete bunks can develop cracks and spalls over time. Small cracks can be filled with concrete patch. Larger damage may require professional repair or replacement. Metal bunks can rust through, especially at the bottom where they contact the ground. Replace rusted sections before they become a safety hazard.

Managing Mud and Drainage

Mud around feed bunks is a major problem in many operations. Mud makes it hard for cattle to stand and eat, reduces feed intake, and increases the risk of foot problems. It also makes it harder to clean the area and can contaminate feed.

To manage mud around bunks:

Install a concrete apron. A concrete pad extending 8 to 12 feet in front of the bunk gives cattle a firm surface to stand on and makes cleaning easier.

Improve drainage. Grade the area around the bunk so that water drains away. Install drainage tile or a French drain if needed.

Use gravel. A layer of gravel 4 to 6 inches deep around the bunk area can improve footing and drainage. Replenish the gravel as it gets pushed into the soil.

Move bunks. If you use portable bunks, move them to a fresh area periodically. This gives the old area time to dry out and recover.

Managing Feed Spoilage

Feed that sits in the bunk for too long can spoil, especially in warm weather. Spoiled feed can cause digestive upsets and can harbor molds that produce toxins.

Signs of feed spoilage include:

  • Visible mold on the feed surface
  • A sour or musty smell
  • Heating of the feed, which indicates microbial activity
  • Changes in color or texture

If you see signs of spoilage, remove the affected feed immediately. Do not feed spoiled feed to cattle, as it can cause serious health problems.

To reduce spoilage:

  • Feed smaller amounts more frequently in hot weather
  • Clean bunks more often in summer
  • Use a feed additive or preservative if recommended by your nutritionist
  • Store feed properly to prevent moisture damage

Common Mistakes in Feed Bunk Management

Even experienced producers make mistakes with feed bunks. Here are the most common problems and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Building bunks at the wrong height. This is the most common and most costly mistake. Bunks built for calves are too low for mature cows, and bunks built for cows are too high for calves. Measure the height of your cattle before building bunks, and consider whether you will feed different classes of cattle in the same bunks.

Mistake 2: Overfilling the bunk. Putting too much feed in the bunk encourages sorting and waste. It also means that feed sits in the bunk longer and is more likely to spoil. Start with a conservative amount and increase gradually until you find the right level.

Mistake 3: Inconsistent feeding times. Cattle are creatures of habit. When feeding times vary, cattle become stressed and may not eat as much. Set a regular feeding schedule and stick to it as closely as possible.

Mistake 4: Ignoring feed waste. Some producers accept feed on the ground as a normal part of feeding. But feed on the ground is money lost. Check the area around your bunks regularly and investigate any waste you see.

Mistake 5: Not cleaning bunks regularly. Bunks that are not cleaned can harbor mold and bacteria that make cattle sick. They also become less efficient because feed gets trapped in the buildup.

Mistake 6: Using the wrong bunk for the class of cattle. Tire bunks for mature cattle, bunks that are too narrow for large bulls, and bunks that are too wide for calves are all common problems. Match the bunk to the cattle you are feeding.

Mistake 7: Poor placement of bunks. Bunks placed in low areas collect water and mud. Bunks placed too far from water or shade make cattle walk farther than necessary. Bunks placed in areas with poor drainage create mud problems.

Mistake 8: Not adjusting feed amounts for weather. Cattle eat less in hot weather and more in cold weather. If you do not adjust your feed amounts, you will either waste feed in summer or underfeed cattle in winter.

Decision Thresholds for Feed Bunk Changes

Knowing when to change your feed bunk setup or management is important. Here are some decision thresholds to guide you.

When to increase bunk space. If you see cattle fighting at the bunk, if timid cattle are being pushed away, or if some cattle are losing condition while others are gaining, you likely need more bunk space. Increase bunk space by 20 to 30 percent and observe whether competition decreases.

When to adjust bunk height. If you see feed being pushed out of the bunk regularly, check the bunk height. The top of the bunk should be at the brisket height of the largest cattle in your herd. If it is lower than that, raise the bunk or build a new one.

When to replace a bunk. Replace a bunk when it is structurally unsound, when it has rusted through, when concrete is crumbling, or when it is too small for your current herd. A bunk that is causing feed waste or animal injury should be replaced immediately.

When to change feeding frequency. If you are feeding once daily and seeing significant feed waste or spoilage, consider feeding twice daily. If you are feeding twice daily and cattle are not cleaning up the feed, consider reducing the amount per feeding or going back to once daily.

When to change feed type. If you are seeing excessive sorting, consider changing the feed form. Adding a small amount of water or molasses can reduce sorting. Changing from dry hay to silage can also reduce waste.

When to call for help. If you have multiple cattle going off feed at the same time, if you see signs of digestive upset such as bloat or diarrhea, or if you suspect feed toxicity, contact your veterinarian immediately. Your local extension agent can also help with feed bunk design and management questions.

Monitoring and Recordkeeping

Good feed bunk management requires regular monitoring and recordkeeping. You cannot manage what you do not measure.

Daily Monitoring

Check your bunks at least once a day, ideally at feeding time. Look for:

  • Amount of feed left from the previous feeding
  • Signs of sorting or waste
  • Condition of the bunk surface
  • Presence of mold or spoiled feed
  • Cattle behavior at the bunk

Weekly Monitoring

Once a week, do a more thorough check:

  • Clean the bunks and inspect for damage
  • Check the area around the bunks for feed waste
  • Check drainage and mud conditions
  • Weigh a sample of cattle if possible to track weight gain

Recordkeeping

Keep records of:

  • Amount of feed delivered to each pen or group
  • Amount of feed left in the bunk before each feeding
  • Any changes in feed type or formulation
  • Weather conditions and their effect on feed intake
  • Health problems related to feeding
  • Feed costs per head per day

These records help you identify trends and problems early. For example, if you notice that feed intake drops every time it rains, you can plan for that. If you notice that one pen consistently wastes more feed than others, you can investigate why.

Using Bunk Scoring

Bunk scoring is a systematic way to track feed intake and adjust feeding amounts. It is most commonly used in feedlots but can be adapted to any feeding operation.

The scoring system works like this:

  • Score 0: Bunk is empty, no feed left
  • Score 1: A few scattered particles of feed left
  • Score 2: A thin layer of feed covering less than half the bunk
  • Score 3: A thin layer of feed covering more than half the bunk
  • Score 4: A moderate amount of feed left, about one-quarter full
  • Score 5: Bunk is full, no feed consumed

The target score depends on your feeding strategy. For a slick bunk approach, you want a score of 0 or 1 at feeding time. For a clean bunk approach, you want a score of 1 or 2. If the score is consistently 4 or 5, you are overfeeding. If it is consistently 0, you may be underfeeding.

Record the bunk score at each feeding and adjust your feed delivery accordingly. Over time, you will develop a feel for how much to feed each group.

Feeding Different Classes of Cattle

Different classes of cattle have different feed bunk needs. Here is how to adjust your management for each.

Cow-Calf Operations

In cow-calf operations, feed bunks are used primarily in winter when pasture is limited or during drought. Cows are often fed hay or silage from bunks.

For cow-calf operations, provide 24 to 30 inches of bunk space per cow. If you are feeding a group of cows with calves, remember that the calves will also want access to the bunk. Provide additional space for calves, or use a creep feeder that calves can access but cows cannot.

Cows are often fed lower-quality feed such as hay, which is more prone to waste than grain-based feeds. Use a bunk with a higher front wall to keep hay in the bunk, and consider using a hay feeder insert that reduces waste.

Backgrounding Operations

Backgrounding operations feed growing calves a high-forage diet to prepare them for the feedlot. These calves are usually fed from bunks in a drylot.

For backgrounding calves, provide 18 to 24 inches of bunk space per head. Feed once or twice daily, depending on the ration and the facilities. Monitor calves closely for signs of digestive upset, especially when they are first introduced to the bunk.

Feedlot Operations

Feedlot cattle are fed high-energy rations for rapid weight gain. Bunk management is critical in feedlots because feed intake directly affects weight gain and feed efficiency.

For feedlot cattle, provide 9 to 12 inches of bunk space per head if feeding continuously, or 18 to 24 inches if feeding once or twice daily. Use bunk scoring to fine-tune feed deliveries. Monitor for signs of acidosis, which can occur when cattle overeat or when feed is changed too quickly.

Bulls

Bulls need more bunk space than cows or steers because they are larger and more aggressive. Provide at least 36 inches of bunk space per bull. If you are feeding multiple bulls together, provide even more space to reduce fighting.

Health and Safety Considerations

Feed bunks can affect cattle health in several ways. Understanding these risks helps you prevent problems.

Digestive Upsets

The most common health problem related to feed bunks is digestive upset, including acidosis and bloat. These conditions occur when cattle eat too much grain or when they eat irregularly.

To prevent digestive upsets:

  • Introduce new feeds gradually over 7 to 14 days
  • Feed at consistent times every day
  • Do not let bunks run empty for long periods
  • Provide adequate bunk space to reduce competition
  • Monitor cattle for signs of digestive upset, including off-feed, diarrhea, and bloating

Mold and Mycotoxins

Moldy feed can cause a range of health problems, from mild digestive upset to serious illness. Mycotoxins produced by molds can cause liver damage, immune suppression, and reproductive problems.

To prevent mold problems:

  • Store feed properly to prevent moisture damage
  • Clean bunks regularly to remove old feed
  • Do not feed feed that shows visible mold
  • Test suspect feed for mycotoxins if you suspect a problem

Injuries

Feed bunks can cause injuries if they are damaged or poorly designed. Sharp edges on metal bunks can cut cattle. Cracks in concrete bunks can trap hooves. Bunks that are too low can cause cattle to injure their necks.

To prevent injuries:

  • Inspect bunks regularly for damage
  • Repair or replace damaged bunks promptly
  • Ensure bunk edges are smooth
  • Match bunk height to the size of your cattle

Foot Problems

Mud around feed bunks can cause foot rot and other foot problems. Cattle standing in mud for long periods are more susceptible to these conditions.

To prevent foot problems:

  • Improve drainage around bunks
  • Provide a concrete apron or gravel pad
  • Move portable bunks regularly
  • Treat foot problems promptly

When to Call a Veterinarian or Extension Agent

Most feed bunk management decisions are within the expertise of the producer. However, there are times when you should seek professional help.

Call your veterinarian if:

  • Several cattle go off feed at the same time
  • You see signs of acidosis, bloat, or other digestive upsets
  • Cattle are losing condition despite adequate feed
  • You suspect feed toxicity or mycotoxin contamination
  • Cattle show signs of injury from feed bunks
  • You see a pattern of health problems that you cannot explain

Call your extension agent if:

  • You are designing a new feed bunk system and want advice on sizing and layout
  • You are considering changing your feeding system and want to compare options
  • You want help interpreting your feed bunk records
  • You need guidance on feed bunk management practices
  • You are considering a major change in your feeding program

Your veterinarian and extension agent are there to help you. They can provide advice, diagnostic services, and resources that you cannot access on your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much bunk space does a cow need?

A mature beef cow needs 24 to 30 inches of bunk space when fed once daily. If you feed every other day or less frequently, increase the space to 30 to 36 inches per cow. Feedlot cattle that are fed continuously can get by with 9 to 12 inches per head. Calves need 18 to 24 inches per head.

What is the best material for cattle feed bunks?

Concrete is the best material for most operations because it is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to damage. Concrete bunks can last 20 years or more. Portable metal or plastic bunks are a good choice for operations that need flexibility, such as rotational grazing systems. Tire bunks are the cheapest option but are only suitable for calves and small cattle.

How high should a cattle feed bunk be?

The top of the bunk should be at the height of the brisket of the largest cattle you feed. For mature beef cows, that is 24 to 30 inches from the ground. For calves, it is 18 to 24 inches. For feedlot cattle, it is 18 to 24 inches. If the bunk is too high or too low, cattle will have trouble eating comfortably and will waste more feed.

How often should I clean cattle feed bunks?

Remove uneaten feed at each feeding. Do a thorough cleaning of the bunk surfaces at least weekly, more often in hot or wet conditions. Do a complete seasonal cleaning at least once a year, including inspection for damage and repair of any problems.

Why is my cattle feed wasted on the ground?

The most common causes of feed waste are bunks that are too low for the cattle, overfilling the bunk, and poor feed distribution. Check the bunk height, reduce the amount of feed you put in at one time, and spread feed evenly along the entire length of the bunk. Wind can also blow light feed out of open bunks.

Can I feed cattle on the ground instead of using a bunk?

You can feed cattle on the ground, but it is not recommended for most operations. Ground feeding leads to higher feed waste, increased risk of disease transmission, and more mud problems. If you must feed on the ground, use a well-drained area and rotate feeding sites regularly to reduce manure buildup and parasite problems.

How do I keep cattle from sorting their feed?

Feed sorting is a common problem when cattle are fed mixed rations. To reduce sorting, feed a total mixed ration that is uniformly mixed, add a small amount of water or molasses to make the feed stick together, and feed more frequently so cattle do not have time to sort. Also make sure you are not overfeeding, which gives cattle more time to sort through the feed.

What should I do if my cattle stop eating from the bunk?

If cattle stop eating, first check the feed for signs of spoilage or contamination. Check the bunk for damage or foreign objects. Check the cattle for signs of illness. If several cattle are off feed at the same time, contact your veterinarian immediately, as this can indicate a serious health problem.

Related Farming Guides

This section will be populated with links to related farming guides on cattle nutrition, feedlot management, cow-calf production, and other relevant topics. Check back for updates.

Related Clinical & Scientific Guides

References

  • Beef Cattle Research Council: https://www.beefresearch.ca/
  • USDA APHIS Cattle Health: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/cattle
  • WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code: https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/
  • FAO Animal Production and Health: https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/
  • WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health): https://www.woah.org/en/home/

This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.