Why use this calculator
Understanding weight gain timelines and feed requirements is essential for planning marketing dates and managing feedlot budgets. This calculator helps you forecast when animals will reach market weight and how much feed investment is needed to get them there.
How to use it
Enter the current starting weight, your target market weight, the expected average daily gain, and the feed conversion ratio for your animals. The calculator determines the feeding period length, total feed needed, and estimated feed costs at $0.30/kg.
The formula
Days to Target = (Target Weight - Start Weight) / Daily Gain. Total Feed = Weight Gain x Feed Conversion Ratio. Feed Cost = Total Feed x $0.30/kg.
Worked examples
Steers from 250kg to 550kg at 1.2kg/day with 6:1 feed conversion
250 days (36 weeks), 1,800kg feed, $540 feed cost
Lambs from 25kg to 50kg at 0.3kg/day with 4:1 conversion
83 days (12 weeks), 100kg feed, $30 feed cost
When people use it
- Planning feedlot finishing programs and marketing dates
- Budgeting feed costs for growing livestock
- Comparing profitability of different feeding strategies
- Scheduling livestock transport and sale dates
Tips
- Daily gain rates vary significantly with feed quality, genetics, and animal health
- Feed conversion typically worsens as animals get heavier and fatter
- Track actual daily gains weekly to adjust projections and rations
- Consider seasonal temperature effects on feed intake and weight gain
Questions people ask
- What is a typical daily gain rate?
- For beef cattle on a feedlot ration, 1.0-1.5 kg/day is common. Pasture-finished cattle may gain 0.5-1.0 kg/day. Lambs typically gain 0.2-0.4 kg/day. Rates vary with breed, genetics, nutrition, and management.
- What does feed conversion ratio mean?
- Feed conversion ratio (FCR) is the kilograms of feed required to produce one kilogram of weight gain. A lower ratio is more efficient. Typical FCR for cattle is 5-8:1, sheep 4-6:1, and pigs 2.5-4:1.
- Why is the feed cost an estimate?
- The $0.30/kg feed cost is an average baseline. Actual costs vary greatly depending on ration composition, local grain prices, and whether you grow your own feed. Adjust your budget based on your actual feed costs.