Cow-Calf Certification Practice Exam

Which creep feed ingredient is most likely to cause digestive problems?

1. Wheat bran

2. Corn silage

3. Soybean meal

4. Cracked corn

The correct answer is: Cracked corn

Cracked corn is often associated with digestive problems in cattle primarily due to its high starch content and the physical form in which it is presented. When fed in larger amounts, cracking the corn may increase the risk of acidosis, as cattle may consume it rapidly without adequate chewing, resulting in a quick release of starch into the gut. This can ferment quickly, leading to an imbalance in the rumen environment. Additionally, high starch diets can decrease the digestive efficiency of fibrous feeds that are necessary for proper rumen function and health. The digestive system of cattle is adapted to a fibrous diet, so the introduction of highly concentrated feeds like cracked corn must be managed carefully to avoid issues. Other ingredients such as wheat bran, corn silage, and soybean meal are typically more fibrous or balanced in protein to energy ratios, making them less likely to cause acidosis or other digestive disturbances when introduced into a creep feed regimen. Each of these alternative ingredients has properties that better support a gradual and healthy intake, minimizing the risk of digestive problems compared to cracked corn.