According to cattle farmer Catherine Sepeng, the benefits of using Voermol Protein Block (V10448) extend beyond animal health; it also makes financial sense.
For North West farmer Catherine Sepeng, the decision to start using Voermol Protein Block came from a very specific challenge.
She explains that they initially focused on using the blocks during winter, a critical period when both cattle and calves need extra nutrition.
“Sometimes we’ve got calves, and we wean them around August. It works because they don’t lose weight – they gain weight. And even the mothers, we want to make sure they don’t lose weight, because if they do come into the breeding season, they may not conceive,” she shares.
Sepeng first introduced the product in 2021 and quickly began noticing tangible results.
“Since 2021, I can tell you that we’ve been doing very well. We have had enough calves, and no cow has skipped a year. They have conceived consistently.
“Even our Bonsmara bull performed exceptionally, servicing around 90 cows, and they all conceived. We only removed it this year in March because the block was already old.”
Seeing results from the start
The improvements became evident within just a few months. “The calves’ weight increased. Even the mothers didn’t lose much weight by summertime, around November. Their condition was good, and we even decided not to sell at auctions. Feedlots were offering us higher prices for them.”
For Sepeng, the advantages of using Voermol’s products go beyond animal performance; they also make financial sense, too.
“It does save us money to spend elsewhere. Previously, we used to buy feed from auctioneers. Now, we plant maize and a bit of pasture, and we only need to buy the block to mix with our resources. It reduces costs and saves money.”
Today, Sepeng integrates both the Voermol Protein Block and Voermol SS 200 (V8592), a fattening concentrate for finishing of lambs, sheep and goats and for growing out young animals, across her herd and flock.
“This year, I’m giving the protein block to all cattle: cows, heifers, bulls, and calves. My cows were pregnant and ready to give birth from the last week of July onwards. Supplementing the bulls ensures they’re prepared for the breeding season.”
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The benefits extend to her sheep as well. “I give it to sheep to provide energy and protein while lactating, helping lambs gain weight faster, especially when foraging quality is low.”
This feeding approach has greatly improved both animal health and productivity, she says, adding that it supports rumen function and helps cattle digest roughage more efficiently.
“During winter, lactating cows maintain their weight because they produce enough milk. Overall, the herd gains weight, bulls are in optimal condition for mating, and heifers grow well ahead of the breeding season.”
Measurable success
The results speak for themselves, Sepeng emphasises. “Body condition is well maintained, calves and lambs are healthy, milk production has improved, and we have a 99% calving rate. Fertility, immunity, and overall health have really improved.”
Looking ahead, Sepeng has ambitious plans to expand her farming enterprise and create lasting opportunities.
“Yes, plans for the future. We want to establish an abattoir. I’ve started a little processing already, and I’d like to produce meat products like patties and wors, supplying the market while creating jobs.”
For Sepeng, Voermol products are more than just supplements; they have become the foundation of her herd’s growth, which is consistently improving, and building a sustainable farming legacy.
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