TCFA Feedyard Technician Certification Practice Test 2026 – Your Complete All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

In a feedyard, the primary focus is on balancing the diet to promote optimal growth, health, and feed efficiency in cattle. Energy and protein sources are particularly critical components of a cattle diet for several reasons.

Energy is crucial because it fuels the metabolic processes of the animal, supporting essential bodily functions and growth. Cattle require adequate energy to maintain their weight and ensure proper development, especially when they are in a feedlot setting where they are being fattened for market. Common sources of energy in a cattle diet often include grains such as corn and barley, which provide concentrated sources of calories.

Protein, on the other hand, is vital for growth, maintenance, and overall health. It plays an essential role in building and repairing tissues, producing milk in lactating cows, and supporting immune function. High-quality protein sources, which can include soybean meal, alfalfa, or other protein supplements, help ensure that cattle receive the necessary amino acids to optimize their growth and production.

Focusing specifically on energy and protein helps feedlot operators create diets that maximize efficiency and animal performance, making them the key components in a feedyard setting.