Beef Show Ration 14% Protein | Diamond V XPC - F.G. Edwards

A beef show ration is a premium feed formulated specifically for cattle being prepared for exhibition at agricultural fairs, breed shows, and livestock competitions. Unlike standard beef rations that prioritize feed-cost efficiency, a show ration is designed to produce a specific physical result: uniform fat cover, muscular definition, a glossy hair coat, and overall bloom that catches a judge’s eye. The F.G. Edwards 14 % Show Ration with Diamond V XPC is suitable for show steers, show heifers, breeding stock being fitted for sale, and premium feeder cattle where carcass quality matters. It can also be used in quality-focused finishing programs outside the show ring where producers want superior muscle development and coat condition.

Diamond V XPC® is a postbiotic product derived from the original line of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation metabolites developed by Diamond V. Unlike live probiotics that must survive the digestive process, postbiotics are stable metabolic compounds—including organic acids, peptides, and cell wall components—that deliver consistent benefits regardless of storage conditions. In cattle, XPC works through a dual-action mechanism: it supports immune function by modulating the innate immune response, and it promotes digestive tissue integrity by encouraging a healthy microbial balance in the rumen and lower gut. The practical result is improved feed efficiency, more consistent daily gains, reduced digestive upsets during diet transitions, and better overall animal well-being.

Feeding rates for show cattle vary by animal weight, target finish date, and desired rate of gain. A general starting guideline for finishing show steers (350–550 kg) is approximately 1,5 to 2,5 % of body weight per day in concentrate, alongside free-choice hay or quality forage. For a 450 kg steer, that means roughly 7 to 11 kg of show ration daily, split into two or three feedings. Adjust upward for thin cattle needing more cover or downward for animals approaching ideal finish. Always transition gradually over 10 to 14 days when introducing the show ration, increasing the proportion by about 10 % every two days to allow rumen microbes to adapt. Monitor body condition weekly and adjust quantities to achieve a steady gain of 1,0 to 1,5 kg per day without excessive fat deposition.

For optimal show-ring presentation, begin feeding the show ration at least 90 to 120 days before the target show date. This timeline allows enough time for the Diamond V XPC postbiotics to establish healthy gut function, for the animal to develop uniform fat cover over the ribs and loin, and for the hair coat to respond to the improved nutrition. During the first 14 days, transition gradually from the previous ration. By weeks 4 through 8, you should see improved hair coat quality—a glossy, thick coat is one of the most visible signs of superior nutrition and judges notice it immediately. In the final 30 days before the show, fine-tune intake to achieve the ideal balance between muscling and finish without over-conditioning. Combine the feeding program with regular grooming, exercise, and halter training for complete show preparation.

Bloat and subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) are the two most common risks when transitioning cattle to a higher-energy concentrate ration. The Diamond V XPC postbiotics in this show ration help by supporting rumen microbial balance during the transition, but proper management is still essential. Follow a strict 10 to 14 day step-up protocol: start at roughly 0,5 % of body weight in concentrate on day one and increase by approximately 10 % every two days until reaching target intake. Always provide free-choice long-stem hay during the transition—the fibre stimulates rumination and saliva production, which naturally buffers rumen pH. Watch for early signs of acidosis including loose or foamy stool, reduced appetite, and depressed attitude. If symptoms appear, reduce concentrate by 25 % and increase hay until the animal stabilizes before resuming the step-up.

Poor gains and a dull coat on a show ration usually point to one of several manageable issues. First, verify adequate daily intake—if the animal is consuming less than 1,5 % of body weight in concentrate, gains will stall regardless of feed quality. Dominant pen mates, feeder design, or stress can all suppress intake. Second, check for internal parasites—a heavy worm burden diverts nutrients away from growth and coat condition; a fecal egg count will confirm whether deworming is needed. Third, ensure water quality and quantity—cattle need 40 to 80 litres of clean water daily, and poor water quality suppresses feed intake. Fourth, consider mineral balance—copper and zinc deficiencies are common causes of a dull, rough hair coat even on a well-formulated ration. Provide a free-choice cattle mineral alongside the show ration. If all management factors are optimized and the animal still fails to respond, consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues.

While both contain similar protein levels around 14 %, a show ration and a standard finishing ration differ in formulation priorities and expected outcomes:

• Show ration (this product)—formulated for visual presentation as much as weight gain; includes premium additives like Diamond V XPC postbiotics for coat quality and digestive health; designed to produce uniform fat cover, muscular definition, and the overall bloom that judges evaluate; typically costs more per kilogram but delivers measurable advantages in appearance and condition
• Standard finishing ration—formulated primarily for cost-efficient daily gain and feed conversion ratio; focuses on getting cattle to market weight quickly; may not include premium additives for coat quality or immune support

For producers showing cattle at Quebec agricultural fairs or breed shows, the show ration is the clear choice. For commercial feedlots focused strictly on production economics, a standard finishing ration may be more cost-effective.

F.G. Edwards carries the Beef 14 % Show Ration with Diamond V XPC along with a complete lineup of cattle nutrition and livestock supplies at both locations in West Brome and Bedford. Our cattle program includes finishing rations, mineral supplements, salt blocks, and calf starter feeds to support every stage from weaning through show ring. We also stock the equipment you need for show preparation including grooming supplies, halters, and livestock handling tools. Our team has decades of experience advising local cattle producers on nutrition programs tailored to Quebec’s forage base and show calendar. Whether you are fitting a 4-H project steer for the county fair or conditioning breeding stock for a breed association sale, we can help you build a feeding program that delivers results.