What type of minerals??

[needstoknowmore]

Ok, reading the sand post got me to thinking. I am not sure I am giving my calf the minerals she needs. I have never raised a calf before and gave her what I had. But I don't know if that is what is best for her. I do also have goats that can visit her when she is outside during the day, so it would have to be something that wouldn't hurt them. But she goes into her own stall at night, so could have what ever is best for her then.
any suggestions???
Thanks

[agmantoo]

My cattle manage just fine with the trace mineral salt given free choice in loose form. I am of the opinion that an animal will not get enough intake attempting to glean its needs from the blocks.

[Christiaan]

If you're on the west side of the Cascades you need to be sure she gets selenium. The rain leaches it out of the soil. Mineral supplements are the easiest way to get selenium into the cattle. Otherwise you'll need to feed Eastern Washington hay or lots and lots of bread. Lack of selenium causes white muscle disease.

[JElfering]

I agree with "agmantoo" I feed the calves a free choice mineral in addition to a salt block with their grain once they have been weaned. While on the mother's milk I just leave the salt block in the pen. I have a natural mineral block and sometimes throw in a regular salt block. Our milker's get a complete mineral and during pregancy I add vit E and selenium.

[Christina R.]

I always fed my gals loose goat minerals. The label essentially had all the ingredients in at least the amount that blocks did, but I've heard loose minerals is more ingestible (like that's a word) to them. I get Purina brand goat minerals. Give Ellie Moo a hug from me!

[Horace Baker]

I have used Azomite for years. The cows eat more or less of it according to their needs.