Weight Gain Calculator

Calculate average daily gain (ADG) and days to target weight based on feed intake and feed conversion ratio.

Results

Visualization

How It Works

Average Daily Gain (ADG) depends on feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR). FCR is the pounds of feed required per pound of gain. Lower FCR means more efficient conversion — swine (3.5:1) are more efficient than cattle (6.5:1).

The Formula

ADG = Daily Feed Intake ÷ Feed Conversion Ratio
Days = (Target Weight - Start Weight) ÷ ADG

Variables

  • ADG — Average daily gain in pounds per day (beef steers on feed: 3-4 lbs/day)
  • FCR — Feed conversion ratio — lbs feed per lb gain (beef: 6-7, swine: 3-4, lamb: 5)
  • DM Intake — Daily dry matter intake in pounds

Example

A 550 lb steer eating 25 lbs DM/day at 6.5:1 FCR gains 3.85 lbs/day. To reach 1,350 lbs = 208 days. Total feed = 5,200 lbs at $0.12/lb = $624.

Tips

  • Implanted cattle gain 15-20% faster with 10-15% better feed conversion.
  • FCR worsens as cattle get heavier — finishing the last 100 lbs is the most expensive.
  • Ionophores (Rumensin) improve FCR by 5-8% in feedlot cattle.
  • Step cattle up on grain gradually — 14-21 day transition prevents acidosis.

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