Customer asked about magnesium amount

[Cannon_Farms]

He wanted a salt with extra magnesium and I did not know what to tell him, we looked on the internet from work and it seemed as though like most, some was good, but too much could do more harm than good.

When looking for a mineral supplement what is key and how much mag. should be in a typical beef cattle diet and how do you feed your salts

thank you

[genebo]

Magnesium is used to prevent grass tetany.

I buy a Hi-Mag block and Hi-Mag loose minerals from Southern States to feed in the spring, when grass is really lush. It's not necessary once the growth rate of the grass slows down.

Genebo
Paradise Farm

[Allen W]

We use hi mag mineral for cows on wheat pasture to help prevent grass tetany. We'll also use it when we have a lush growth of winter grass in the spring on native pastures for the same reason. Its to expensive to feed without a good reason.

[Cannon_Farms]

well with the lack of rain, aint nothing really lush around here...lol..

Thank you for responding may I ask, what is your opinions on selienium?

[translplant]

I know everyone says this all the time and it gets old and frustrating but you need to do a soil test (or recommend one) and specifically check the boxes for all such trace minerals. Short of that, calling your county extension agent and asking for an over view of the area's mineral deficiencies is another route. But he or she is just going to recommend a soil test.
We consulted with a university forage and nutrition specialist who told us to take away ALL other forms of mineral supplementation (thermolass licks, salt blocks, everything) and just keep out hi quality loose minerals specifically recommended for our area 24/7/365 days a year. The cattle will take up what they need, when they need it and not be tempted to just lick on stuff that tastes good but has less nutritional value.