Feeding Holstein Steers from Start to Finish

Holstein beef has become a significant segment of the feedlot industry. Holstein steers typically enter the feedlot at a lighter body weight, require more pen space per animal, and are in the feedlot for longer periods of time than beef breeds. The only real differences in carcass characteristics are the lower dressing percentage and the smaller rib eye area, which can be increased with anabolic implants and the use of β-agonists. Holsteins are typically fed higher roughage concentrations. Fat concentrations can also be increased to offset the lower energy diets. Protein requirements do not appear to be different from beef cattle, although Holstein steers weighing from 300 to 700 lb should be fed plant protein sources (eg, soybean meal).