Futterration

Futterration is the daily amount of feed provided to an animal or group of animals, and the specific mix of ingredients that compose that feed. It is usually expressed on a dry-matter basis and can be stated as kilograms per day, as a percentage of body weight, or as a target intake. The purpose is to satisfy maintenance requirements and the needs arising from growth, reproduction, lactation, or work, while balancing energy, protein, fiber, minerals and vitamins. In practice, the ration is planned from nutrient requirement data and feed tables, and may be formulated to meet energy needs in metabolizable energy terms or net energy terms.

Rations comprise roughage (forage) and concentrates, along with mineral and vitamin supplements. They are delivered as a total mixed ration (TMR) in some operations, or as a combination of individual feeds, depending on management and species. For ruminants, forage often forms a large part of the ration; for monogastric species, emphasis may be on balancing essential amino acids and minerals in the diet.

Daily rations are adjusted for animal type, life stage, health, climate, and production level. Monitoring approaches include body condition scoring, weight changes, and production data to detect under- or over-feeding. Properly designed Futterration supports productive performance, welfare, and feed efficiency and minimizes waste and environmental impact.