FEEDING FARMS

Canada has an abundant supply of grain. This includes corn, barley, and wheat. In eastern provinces corn is more commonly fed to cattle and in western provinces other grains are provided. Grain used for feeding is typically not suitable for human consumption.

Animals may use crops that have been damaged by weather or plant imperfections. Regardless, the animals have access to a nutritionally balanced diet that is often created with the assistance of a professional working in animal nutrition. Farmers work closely with their veterinarians to provide care for their animals.

After grazing on open pastures, cattle are often moved to feeding farms, where they are fed a diet containing grain. This period, before an animal goes to market is called finishing. In Canada, cattle typically spend between 60-200 days at a feeding farm.