Can a Deer Feeder Be Used to Feed Cattle Range Cubes?

Can A Deer Feeder Feed Cattle Range Cubes?

This is a common question for those looking to use their deer feeders for supplemental feeding of cattle. While deer feeders can technically hold and dispense range cubes designed for cattle, there are some important considerations when using your deer feeder for this unintended purpose.

The Difference Between Deer Feed and Cattle Feed

Deer feeders are designed with whitetail deer in mind. They allow you to automatically dispense deer corn, protein pellets, apples, or other deer-specific feed on a timer. Range cubes formulated for cattle have different nutritional requirements than those for deer. Cattle require more roughage, vitamins and minerals due to their unique digestive system as ruminants.

Size and Capacity Concerns

Many deer feeders have relatively small capacities compared to dedicated cattle feeders. The standard deer feeder may hold 100-250 lbs of feed at a time. Larger cattle operations require much bigger bulk feeders that can hold 500+ lbs of range cubes. If you only have a few cows to feed, a deer feeder might get the job done, but the small capacity would require frequent filling.

Preventing Feeder Damage

Cattle are generally much larger and stronger than deer. A deer feeder must be extremely sturdy to withstand brute force from an 800-1500 lb cow rubbing, bumping, or pushing on the feeder to get to the range cubes. The motor, dispenser, and rotational system would require beefed up components. Otherwise, expensive damages are likely to occur.

Dispensing Method Difficulties

Another issue is the dispensing mechanism itself. Most range cube feeders for cattle use an open trough, gravity-based design so cattle can freely eat. Deer feeders portion out feed doses at timed intervals. This controlled dispensing approach may frustrate cattle and cause them to ram the feeder. They are also messy eaters, while deer are tidy. Cube dust and saliva buildup could foul the inner workings of a deer feeder.

Tips for Using a Deer Feeder for Cattle

While deer feeders aren't ideally suited for cattle, making some modifications can make them more cattle-friendly. Here are some useful tips if you want to use your deer feeder to supplement feed range cubes to cows:

Upgrade Motor and Hardware

Choose heavy duty motor and hardware components rated for cattle use to handle frequent opening/closing. Stainless steel resists corrosion from exposure to weather and cattle saliva/manure.

Reinforce the Feeder

Add extra bracing and reinforce connection points that will bear the brunt of cow contact. Thick steel tubing withstands brute force from cows better than light gauge poles. Anchor it securely and check for signs of loosening.

Modify Dispensing

Remove electronic dispenser parts to create an open trough with gravity-fed design. This allows free-choice eating while minimizing mechanisms cows could damage. Just don't make openings big enough for a cow head to get stuck.

Elevate the Feeder

Positioning it higher makes it harder for cows to damage with their bulk and strength. Just ensure proper clearances to allow cows of all sizes to comfortably eat from below the feeder.

Separate Cattle and Deer Feeding

When deer and cattle share a habitat, separate dedicated feeders allow you to tailor nutrition and prevent competition. Cattle shouldn't gorge on deer corn and deer don't require range cubes. Install a sturdy cattle range cube feeder elsewhere for best results.

While a deer feeder can physically hold and supply cattle range cubes, making these modifications helps overcome the limitations of using equipment beyond its intended design. For serious cattle operations, investing in an actual cattle feeder is wise. But for small-scale needs, an improvised deer feeder can potentially get the job done.

FAQs

What is the main difference between deer feed and cattle range cubes?

The main difference is the nutritional formulations. Deer feed contains protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals tailored specifically for white tailed deer based on their digestive system and nutritional needs. Cattle range cubes are formulated with the nutritional needs of cows in mind, especially more roughage.

Can I use my tripod deer feeder for feeding range cubes to a small herd of cattle?

You potentially can, but tripod style deer feeders generally have smaller capacities compared to dedicated cattle feeders. Frequent refilling would be required. Also, deer feeder motors, hardware and dispensing mechanisms may not withstand regular pressure from 800-1500 lb cattle trying to access the feed.

What modifications can I make so my deer feeder can handle cattle use?

Useful modifications include reinforcing connection points with heavier bracing, upgrading key components like the motor to stainless steel, removing unnecessary dispenser parts to create an open gravity-fed trough design, elevating the feeder height for protection, and separating deer and cattle feeding stations for tailored nutrition.

Is it a problem if my deer and cattle both eat from a deer feeder loaded with range cubes?

Yes, a deer feeder set up for cattle with range cubes could pose issues for the health of your deer. Deer have different nutritional needs. They require higher protein while too much mineral-rich roughage cubes can be unhealthy. Having separate deer and cattle feeders prevents competition over food.