# Range Cubes for Cattle: Supplementation Strategies and Feeding Management ## Key Takeaways - Range cubes are a supplemental feed for beef cattle, primarily used to address deficiencies in pasture forage quality or quantity, particularly when crude protein drops below 7%. Supplementation with protein cubes stimulates rumen microbial activity, enhancing fiber digestion and increasing the energy animals can extract from low-quality forages. - Forage crude protein levels below 7% for mature cows or 10% for growing cattle, coupled with high neutral detergent fiber (above 60%) or low total digestible nutrients (below 50%), indicate a critical need for protein supplementation. Objective forage testing is paramount for accurate decision-making, superseding visual assessment alone. - The selection of range cube protein content (15-40% crude protein) should directly correlate with forage analysis: 30-40% for forage below 7% crude protein, and 20-30% for marginal to moderate quality forages (7-10% crude protein). - Feeding frequency is dictated by cube protein content and the presence of non-protein nitrogen sources like urea; urea-containing cubes necessitate daily feeding to prevent toxicity, while higher protein cubes with natural protein sources can be fed 2-3 times weekly due to rumen nitrogen storage capacity. - Cost-effectiveness is best evaluated on a cost-per-pound-of-protein basis, not per ton, and should also consider feeding rates and the projected return on investment through improved animal performance metrics such as body condition scores, pregnancy rates, and average daily gain. - Common supplementation failures include overfeeding (wasting resources, reducing forage intake), underfeeding (failing to correct deficiencies), inadequate intake by subordinate animals due to competition, and a mismatch between cube protein content and forage quality, underscoring the need for careful monitoring and management. --- Beef cattle producers use range cubes as a supplemental feed when pasture forage quality or quantity cannot meet the nutritional requirements of the herd. Range cubes are compressed feed pellets typically formulated with protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals designed to be fed on the ground in pasture settings. This article provides evidence-based guidance on when and how to use range cubes, including protein content considerations, feeding frequency decisions, and cost-effectiveness evaluation for beef cattle operations. ## At a Glance: Range Cube Supplementation Decision Guide | Forage Condition | Recommended Cube Protein Level | Typical Feeding Frequency | Primary Management Objective | |---|---|---|---| | Mature dormant grass, low crude protein (below 7%) | 30-40% crude protein cubes | 2-3 times per week | Provide supplemental protein to improve forage digestion and intake | | Moderate quality forage, protein 7-10% | 20-30% crude protein cubes | 3-4 times per week | Maintain body condition during maintenance periods | | Growing cattle on warm-season grass, protein 6-8% | 20-30% crude protein cubes | Daily or every other day | Support average daily gain in stocker operations | ## Understanding Range Cube Composition and Nutritional Role Range cubes serve as a concentrated source of nutrients that complement the base forage diet. The primary function of protein-based range cubes is to supply rumen-degradable protein that stimulates microbial activity in the rumen. When forage protein content falls below approximately 7% crude protein, rumen microbes cannot efficiently break down fiber, reducing voluntary intake and digestibility of the forage. Supplementing with a protein cube provides the nitrogen source that rumen microbes need to ferment fiber, which in turn increases the energy the animal can extract from the forage. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that protein supplementation is most beneficial when forage quality is low, as it can improve intake and digestion of low-quality forages. Producers should match cube protein concentration to the specific deficiency in the forage. A cube with 30-40% crude protein is appropriate when forage crude protein is below 7%, while a 20% cube may suffice when forage protein is marginal. Energy content of range cubes varies depending on the ingredients used. Common energy sources in cubes include corn, milo, wheat middlings, and distillers grains. The extruded distillers grains cube has been studied for its effects on stocker steer production when grazing native range in Western Oklahoma, with research published in Translational Animal Science examining increasing supplementation rates. Producers should evaluate the energy density of cubes relative to the energy demands of the cattle class being fed. ## When to Supplement with Range Cubes ### Forage Quality Assessment The decision to begin range cube supplementation should be based on objective forage quality measurements, not calendar dates or visual assessment alone. Forage crude protein content declines as plants mature, and this decline accelerates after seed head emergence and during drought conditions. Producers should collect forage samples from representative areas of the pasture and submit them to a certified forage testing laboratory for analysis. Key forage quality thresholds that indicate a need for protein supplementation include: - Forage crude protein below 7% for mature cows - Forage crude protein below 10% for growing calves and stocker cattle - Neutral detergent fiber above 60% indicating low digestibility - Total digestible nutrients below 50% When laboratory analysis is not immediately available, producers can use visual indicators such as advanced plant maturity, stemminess, brown or yellow color, and evidence of selective grazing where cattle leave coarse stems uneaten. However, these visual cues are less reliable than laboratory testing and should be used only as preliminary indicators. ### Animal Condition Monitoring [Body condition scoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/body-condition-scoring-a-tool-for-feed-management) provides a practical method for evaluating whether the current nutrition program meets herd requirements. For beef cows, a body condition score of 5 on a 9-point scale is generally considered optimal at calving and breeding. Producers should score cows at key production points including weaning, 60 days before calving, and at breeding. When body condition scores decline below target levels despite adequate forage availability, protein or energy supplementation with range cubes may be necessary. Thin cows with condition scores of 4 or lower require increased nutrition to restore body reserves before the next calving season. ### Production Stage Considerations Different production stages create different nutritional demands. Lactating cows have the highest protein and energy requirements of any production stage. A cow producing 20-25 pounds of milk daily needs approximately 50-60% more protein than a dry cow. Range cube supplementation during lactation can help maintain body condition and support calf growth. Growing calves and stocker cattle require higher protein concentrations in their diet than mature cows because they are depositing muscle tissue. The study on stocker steer production grazing native range in Western Oklahoma examined how increasing supplementation rates of extruded distillers grains cubes affected production outcomes. Producers managing stocker cattle should consider cubes with higher protein content and more frequent feeding schedules to support target gains. ## Protein Content Selection for Range Cubes ### Low Protein Cubes (15-20% Crude Protein) Cubes in this range are suitable when forage quality is marginal but not severely deficient. They provide a modest protein boost that can help maintain rumen function when forage crude protein is between 7% and 10%. These cubes are often less expensive per ton than higher protein options and may be appropriate for dry cows or bulls during maintenance periods. ### Medium Protein Cubes (20-30% Crude Protein) This is the most common protein range for commercial range cubes. These cubes provide sufficient protein to improve digestion of moderate to low quality forages. They are appropriate for lactating cows on dormant grass, growing heifers, and stocker cattle. Many producers use 20-30% cubes as their standard supplementation product. ### High Protein Cubes (30-40% Crude Protein) High protein cubes are designed for situations where forage quality is very poor, such as mature dormant grass or crop residues with crude protein below 5%. These cubes deliver concentrated protein in a small feeding volume, which can reduce labor costs because less total feed needs to be delivered. However, they are typically more expensive per ton and may require careful management to ensure all animals receive adequate intake. The study on increasing protein supplementation and its effect on intake and digestion of bermudagrass hays of divergent quality by beef cattle provides relevant context for understanding how protein level interacts with forage quality. Producers should select cube protein content based on the specific forage being fed and the animal class being supplemented. ## Feeding Frequency and Delivery Methods ### Frequency Options Range cubes can be fed daily, every other day, or two to three times per week. The appropriate frequency depends on the protein content of the cube, the severity of the forage deficiency, and the labor and equipment available. Daily feeding provides the most consistent nutrient supply to rumen microbes and is recommended when cattle are on very low quality forage or when cubes contain non-protein nitrogen sources such as urea. Urea-containing cubes must be fed daily because rumen microbes need a consistent nitrogen supply to utilize urea effectively. Feeding urea cubes less frequently increases the risk of toxicity. Every other day feeding is a common compromise that reduces labor while still providing relatively consistent nutrition. This schedule works well with natural protein sources such as soybean meal or cottonseed meal. Two to three times per week feeding is the most labor-efficient option and is appropriate when using high protein cubes (30% or higher) with natural protein sources. The rumen can store nitrogen as microbial protein, allowing cattle to utilize protein consumed in a single feeding over multiple days. However, this approach requires careful management to ensure [dominant](/blog/careers/dominant-definition-biology) animals do not consume more than their share. ### Delivery Methods Range cubes are typically fed by broadcasting on the ground in a line or in piles. The feeding area should be well-drained and free of mud to reduce waste and prevent soil ingestion. Some producers use feed bunks or troughs to reduce waste, but this requires more equipment and labor. When feeding on the ground, producers should space cubes adequately to allow all cattle access. A general guideline is to provide 18-24 inches of linear feeding space per animal when feeding in a line. For pile feeding, multiple piles should be created to reduce competition. The study on choices between red clover and fescue in the diet using n-alkanes in heifers post-weaning demonstrates that cattle can make dietary choices based on nutritional content. Producers should observe whether cattle are consuming all cubes offered and adjust feeding rates accordingly. ## Cost-Effectiveness Evaluation ### Cost Per Pound of Protein The most meaningful way to compare range cube costs is on a cost per pound of protein basis, not cost per ton. A 20% protein cube at $400 per ton provides protein at $1.00 per pound of protein ($400 per ton divided by 400 pounds of protein per ton). A 40% protein cube at $500 per ton provides protein at $0.625 per pound of protein ($500 per ton divided by 800 pounds of protein per ton). The higher protein cube may be more economical even though it costs more per ton. Producers should calculate the cost per pound of protein for each cube option and also consider the cost per pound of energy and any additional nutrients such as phosphorus or trace minerals. ### Feeding Rate Economics The total cost of supplementation depends on the feeding rate per head per day and the number of days supplemented. A typical feeding rate for protein cubes is 1-4 pounds per head per day, depending on the protein content of the cube and the severity of the forage deficiency. Producers should calculate the expected return on supplementation by estimating the value of improved animal performance. For cow-calf operations, this may include improved pregnancy rates, higher calf weaning weights, or reduced body condition loss. For stocker operations, the return comes from increased average daily gain and reduced days to market. ### Alternative Supplement Comparison Range cubes are one of several protein supplement options available to cattle producers. Other options include protein blocks, liquid supplements, and commodity feeds such as distillers grains or cottonseed meal. Each option has advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, labor requirements, waste potential, and ease of feeding. Range cubes offer the advantage of being easy to handle and feed without specialized equipment. They are less prone to waste than loose meal or pellets when fed on the ground. However, cubes are typically more expensive per unit of protein than commodity feeds because of the manufacturing and bagging costs. ## Records and Measurements for Supplementation Management ### Feeding Records Producers should maintain accurate records of all range cube purchases and feeding activities. Essential records include: - Date of each feeding - Number of head fed - Pounds of cubes fed per feeding - Cube product name and protein content - Cost per ton and total cost per feeding These records allow producers to calculate actual supplementation costs and compare them to budgeted amounts. They also provide documentation for tax purposes and for evaluating the effectiveness of the supplementation program. ### Animal Performance Records To evaluate whether the supplementation program is achieving its objectives, producers should track animal performance indicators. For cow-calf operations, relevant records include: - Body condition scores at key production points - Calf weaning weights - Pregnancy rates - Calving interval For stocker operations, relevant records include: - Starting and ending weights - Average daily gain - Days on feed - Feed conversion if measured The study on the glutamate metabotropic receptor 5 gene and its association with beef cattle home range and movement tortuosity illustrates that individual animal behavior and genetics can influence grazing patterns and potentially supplement intake. Producers should be aware that individual variation exists and may affect supplementation outcomes. ### Forage Testing Records Forage quality testing should be conducted at least annually and preferably multiple times during the grazing season. Records should include: - Date of sample collection - Pasture or field identification - Plant species composition - Stage of maturity - Laboratory results including crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and total digestible nutrients These records help producers make informed decisions about when to begin and end supplementation and what protein level to use. ## Common Failure Patterns in Range Cube Supplementation ### Overfeeding and Underfeeding Overfeeding range cubes wastes money and can reduce forage intake. When cattle receive too much supplement, they may eat less forage, reducing the benefit of the pasture resource. Underfeeding fails to correct the nutritional deficiency and may result in continued weight loss or poor performance. The correct feeding rate depends on the protein content of the cube, the quality of the forage, and the requirements of the cattle. Producers should start with conservative feeding rates and adjust based on observed animal condition and performance. ### Inadequate Intake by Subordinate Animals In herd situations, dominant animals may consume more than their share of range cubes, leaving subordinate animals under-supplemented. This is particularly problematic when cubes are fed in piles or when feeding frequency is low. Strategies to improve intake uniformity include: - Feeding in a long line instead of piles - Providing adequate feeding space - Sorting cattle by body condition or age - Feeding more frequently to reduce competition ### Failure to Match Cube to Forage Using a cube with protein content that does not match the forage quality can lead to poor results. A low protein cube fed on very low quality forage will not provide enough protein to improve digestion. A high protein cube fed on moderate quality forage may be more expensive than necessary. Producers should base cube selection on forage test results and animal requirements, not on habit or convenience. ### Ignoring Mineral and Vitamin Needs Range cubes may not provide adequate mineral and vitamin supplementation, particularly for phosphorus, calcium, and trace minerals. Producers should ensure that the total mineral program meets the requirements of the cattle, either through the cube formulation or through separate mineral supplementation. ## Welfare and Safety Considerations ### Feeding Behavior and Social Dynamics Range cube supplementation can alter normal grazing behavior and social dynamics within the herd. Cattle may congregate at feeding sites for extended periods, reducing time spent grazing. This is more pronounced when feeding frequency is low and cattle anticipate the next feeding. Producers should observe cattle behavior during and after supplementation to ensure that all animals have adequate access to feed and that aggressive behavior is not causing injury or stress. The study on the glutamate metabotropic receptor 5 gene and its association with beef cattle home range and movement tortuosity suggests that individual grazing personalities exist and may influence how cattle respond to supplementation programs. ### Biosecurity Considerations When feeding range cubes on the ground, producers should be aware of biosecurity risks. Multiple herds or groups of cattle should not share feeding sites. Equipment used to transport and feed cubes should be cleaned between uses on different groups. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that can help producers develop biosecurity protocols for supplementation programs. ### Worker Safety Handling and feeding range cubes involves physical labor and equipment operation. Producers should follow safe lifting practices when handling bags of cubes. Bulk delivery systems should be operated according to manufacturer instructions. Feeding sites should be located away from roads, fences, and other hazards. Producers should avoid entering pens with cattle during feeding if there is risk of being injured by excited or aggressive animals. ### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) Considerations For cattle being finished for slaughter, producers must observe all withdrawal periods for any medications or additives included in range cubes. Records of cube purchases and feeding should be maintained to document compliance with food safety requirements. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations provides guidance on animal production practices that support food safety and animal health. ## Professional Escalation Criteria Producers should seek professional assistance from a livestock nutritionist, veterinarian, or extension specialist when: - Forage test results indicate crude protein below 5% or total digestible nutrients below 45% - Cattle continue to lose body condition despite supplementation - More than 10% of the herd has body condition scores below 4 - Calving rates fall below 85% in a defined breeding season - Average daily gain in stocker cattle is below 1.0 pound per day on a supplementation program - Suspected toxicity or adverse reactions to feed ingredients occur - Multiple animals show signs of nutritional deficiency such as rough hair coat, poor growth, or reduced fertility A qualified professional can help diagnose the underlying problem and develop a targeted supplementation strategy. This may include reformulating the cube, adjusting feeding rates, or addressing other management factors such as stocking rate, forage management, or health programs. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the difference between range cubes and protein blocks? Range cubes are compressed feed pellets that are typically fed on the ground and consumed quickly by cattle. Protein blocks are harder, more compressed products designed for self-feeding over several days. Cubes allow more precise control over intake per animal per feeding, while blocks require less labor but provide less control over individual intake. The choice depends on labor availability, cattle class, and management objectives. ### How much range cube should I feed per head per day? The appropriate feeding rate depends on the protein content of the cube, the quality of the forage, and the requirements of the cattle. A typical starting point is 1-4 pounds per head per day for protein supplementation. For energy supplementation, higher rates may be used. Producers should base feeding rates on forage test results and animal performance targets, and adjust based on observed body condition changes. ### Can I feed range cubes to calves? Yes, range cubes can be fed to calves, but the cube formulation should match the nutritional requirements of growing animals. Calves need higher protein concentrations than mature cows. Cubes for calves should contain at least 20% crude protein and appropriate mineral and vitamin levels. Calves should be introduced to cubes gradually to allow rumen adaptation. ### How should I store range cubes to maintain quality? Range cubes should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area protected from moisture, rodents, and birds. Bags should be stored off the ground on pallets. Bulk cubes should be stored in bins or covered piles. Cubes that become wet can mold and spoil, reducing palatability and potentially causing health problems. Producers should use oldest inventory first and avoid storing cubes for more than 6-12 months. ### What is the best time of day to feed range cubes? The best time to feed range cubes depends on management goals and cattle behavior. Feeding in the morning allows cattle to consume cubes and then graze during the day. Feeding in the afternoon or evening may encourage cattle to stay near the feeding area overnight. Producers should choose a consistent time that fits their schedule and allows observation of cattle during feeding. ### Can range cubes replace hay in a winter feeding program? Range cubes are a supplement, not a replacement for forage. Cattle need a minimum amount of forage in their diet to maintain rumen function and health. Cubes can reduce the amount of hay needed by improving the utilization of low-quality forage, but they should not be used as the sole feed source unless specifically formulated as a complete feed. ### How do I know if my cattle are getting enough protein from range cubes? Monitor body condition scores, coat condition, and manure consistency. Cattle receiving adequate protein will maintain or improve body condition, have a smooth hair coat, and produce manure that forms a moderate pile instead of being very loose or very firm. For objective assessment, conduct forage testing and calculate whether the supplement program is meeting the calculated protein requirements for the class of cattle. ### Are there any risks with feeding range cubes containing urea? Urea is a non-protein nitrogen source that can be toxic if consumed in excessive amounts or if cattle are not adapted to it. Cubes containing urea must be fed daily to maintain consistent rumen ammonia levels. Cattle should be gradually introduced to urea-containing cubes over 7-10 days. Signs of urea toxicity include muscle tremors, salivation, bloating, and incoordination. Producers should follow all label directions and consult a nutritionist before using urea-containing cubes. ## Related Farming Guides - [Beef Cattle Backgrounding Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-backgrounding-management) - [Beef Cattle Manure Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-manure-management) - [Beef Cattle Mud Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-mud-management) - [Beef Cattle Quarantine Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-quarantine-management) - [Beef Cow Drylot Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cow-drylot-management) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Cattle Head Gate Selection and Adjustment](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/cattle-head-gate-selection-and-adjustment) * [Beef Cattle Handling Facility Flow](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-handling-facility-flow) * [Beef Cattle Maternity Pen Design: Comfort and Monitoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-maternity-pen-design-comfort-monitoring) ## References and Further Reading - [www.nrcs.usda.gov](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Effects of increasing supplementation rates of extruded distillers' grains cubes on stocker steer production grazing native range in Western Oklahoma.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41384041). Translational animal science, 2025. - [Choices between red clover and fescue in the diet can be reliably estimated in heifers post-weaning using n-alkanes.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30789122). Animal : an international journal of animal bioscience, 2019. - [Effect of Increasing Protein Supplementation on Intake and Digestion of Bermudagrass Hays of Divergent Quality by Beef Cattle](https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/aee1db37582a658a220942ddb7acd0566d54df1a). 2012. - [Effects of yeast culture on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immune function, and intestinal microbiota structure in Simmental beef cattle](https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2024.1533081). Frontiers in [Veterinary Science](/blog/news/veterinary-science), 2025. - [The glutamate metabotropic receptor 5 (GRM5) gene is associated with beef cattle home range and movement tortuosity](https://doi.org/10.1186/s40104-022-00755-7). Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology, 2022. - [Long-range linkage disequilibrium in French beef cattle breeds](https://doi.org/10.1186/s12711-021-00657-8). Genetics Selection Evolution, 2021. - [Defining a Haplotype Encompassing the LCORL-NCAPG Locus Associated with Increased Lean Growth in Beef Cattle](https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15050576). Genes, 2024. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.