The Power of Fats

Now that we are officially out of winter (at least here in Ohio), how are your animals looking? Do you have some that are lacking condition, have a rough haircoat, or are struggling to meet the demands of their nursing babies? It might be a good time to supplement calories, while we are waiting on that spring flush of grass.

But not all calories are created equal, especially when it comes to supporting livestock through demanding seasons.

There are times when animals need more energy, but simply feeding more grain isn’t always the best answer. Livestock coming out of winter in rough condition, animals in lactation, seniors, or those with poor dentition often benefit from added fat sources instead of increased feed volume.

Why fat?
✔ Energy dense – Fat provides more than 2x the energy of carbohydrates
✔ Low intake, high impact – Ideal for animals that can’t or won’t eat more
✔ Safer than starch – Helps avoid digestive upset tied to excess grain or corn
✔ Supports condition & production – Great for weight gain, milk production, and overall resilience

Instead of pushing more feed or relying heavily on starchy options, adding fat allows you to increase calories without overloading the rumen or digestive system.

At Kraut Creek, we offer practical fat sources you can easily incorporate:

Black Oil Sunflower Seed (BOSS) – A highly palatable, natural fat source that also supports coat and skin health

Flax Seed – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids for anti-inflammatory support, condition, and overall health

Sesame Oil – A concentrated energy source with beneficial fatty acids, easy to top-dress

Soybean Oil – Cost-effective, calorie-dense option for boosting energy intake efficiently

Whether you’re rebuilding condition, supporting heavy producers, or helping older animals maintain weight, adding fat is a simple, effective tool to keep your livestock thriving.

Real nutrition. Practical solutions. Built for working farms.