Practical solutions help cattle producers maximize efficiency and profitability
Raising cattle is both demanding and fulfilling. Each day offers new possibilities for producers to improve their herd and work toward greater profitability.
With the cattle market at historically high levels, many producers are seizing the moment to move their businesses forward with the help of management programs.
Whether it’s feed financing, product testing trials or value-added calf marketing programs, cattle producers say these services are helping them address challenges and take advantage of market conditions to advance their operations.
6-4-0 Feed
Financing Program
Every operation pursues their growth and performance goals differently, and what works for one may not suit another.
Purina Animal Nutrition’s tools and services are designed to help pinpoint key areas of focus on a farm or ranch, empowering producers to take their herd to the next level and continue moving their cattle business forward.
The 6-4-0 Feed Financing Program is a unique collaboration between Purina and John Deere Financial which allows producers to offset one of the most significant expenses on their cattle operation by delaying payments for up to six months during the enrollment period.
While payments are delayed during the enrollment period, Purina covers the interest cost for up to six months. It gives producers the flexibility to pay for feed after their cattle have been marketed.
“It’s been a real advantage to pay zero percent interest for six months during the enrollment period,” says Wayne Drouhard, a Kansas cow/calf producer. “It’s worked well for us, and we’d highly recommend it.”
Purina Wind and Rain Mineral Value-Added Program
Producers can also take advantage of the strong cattle market with the Purina Wind and Rain Mineral Value-Added Program. It is one of the first feeder calf programs to provide buyers with calves which have a foundation built on quality mineral nutrition.
Calves enrolled in the program receive essential vitamins and minerals from conception to weaning.
Superior Livestock Auction sales data from 2023 shows by participating in the program, one could see sizable average premiums of $31 per head.
“Being part of the Wind and Rain Mineral Value-Added Program, the buyer has the confidence calves have had sufficient nutritional support when they get them there,” says Buddy Raney, a Florida cattle producer. “Without the Wind and Rain Mineral Value-Added Program, we could possibly be leaving money on the table.”
Purina Plus Value-Added Program
Another innovative preconditioning program offered is the Purina Plus Value-Added Program. It combines a complete nutritional foundation, proven health protocols and progressive management to distinguish high-value calves for a sale day advantage.
“Back when we marketed calves ourselves, we always did good,” says Ronnie Karl, a Missouri cow/calf producer. “But with the Purina Plus program, it went from good to excellent. There’s just no comparison.”
Feed can be put to the test as well with a Purina Proof Pays feeding trial. Producers with 50 cattle or more can test a Purina feed or mineral product on their operation for 28 to 90 days with the help of a local Purina dealer to measure the impact on herd’s performance.
“The quality of the animal has substantially gotten better,” says Ty Hendrick, a Montana cattle producer. “As it is for any rancher, you can learn by doing, and sometimes it’s as simple as changing your feed program.”
Made for more
Through the highs and lows of the cattle business, the team of researchers, nutritionists, salespeople and dealers from Purina are dedicated to supporting producers.
“Whether you’re dealing with a historic drought, down cattle markets or simply looking for input on what to feed, we’re here to help your unique cattle business thrive for generations to come,” says Ted Perry, Purina Animal Nutrition cattle nutritionist.
“As with our feeds, our programs are strengthened by our continuous research at the Purina Animal Nutrition Center in Gray Summit, Mo. We are deeply invested in your success and take pride in helping you achieve your goals,” he continues.
“At Purina, we realize cattle producers are facing an ever-evolving business environment,” adds Perry. “A shared passion with producers drives us to bring out the best in every animal.”
The relationship between producers and Purina goes beyond products.
“We are committed to working alongside producers to address their herd’s specific needs and support them in achieving their goals and beyond,” says Perry.
Headquartered in Arden Hills, Minn. and wholly owned by subsidiary of Land O’ Lakes, Inc., Purina Animal Nutrition LLC is a national organization serving producers, animal owners and their families through more than 4,700 local cooperatives, independent dealers and other large retailers throughout the U.S. The company is an industry-leading innovator offering a valued portfolio of complete feeds, supplements, premixes, ingredients and specialty technologies for the livestock and lifestyle animal markets.
