Cow-Calf Certification Practice Exam

What is one drawback of using lick tubs for grazing cattle?

1. Hastened weight gain

2. Potential for spoilage

3. Not all animals may receive adequate amounts

4. Difficulty in transport

The correct answer is: Not all animals may receive adequate amounts

Using lick tubs for grazing cattle may lead to the issue where not all animals receive adequate amounts of the supplements provided. This is because lick tubs often have a limited accessibility, and dominant animals might monopolize the feed, leaving subdominant animals with little or no access. This can create imbalances in nutrient intake among the herd, potentially impacting overall health and performance, especially in larger groups where competition for access can be more pronounced. The other choices present potential considerations as well, but they do not highlight the primary drawback associated with the feeding behavior of cattle. For example, spoilage could be a concern if lick tubs are not stored properly, but it is more related to handling rather than inefficiency in consumption among the animals themselves. Similarly, while the transportation of lick tubs can pose logistical challenges, it is not as direct an issue regarding the feeding dynamics and health of the cattle in relation to nutrient intake. Lastly, a hastened weight gain could be seen as a benefit rather than a drawback, making it an unsuitable choice for this question.