Raising a Steer for Beef: Growth, Feed and Finish Weight

Updated: November 4, 2026

From weaned calf to the freezer, raising a steer comes down to steady gain, good feed and timing the finish.

How fast they grow

Well-fed beef-breed steers often gain about 0.9–1.4 kg (2–3 lb) a day. Dairy and dairy-cross steers grow taller and take longer to finish. Weigh or tape every month to see if your feeding is working.

Feeding

Growing cattle eat roughly 2.5% of their body weight in dry feed a day. Good pasture or hay is the base. Many small farms add grain in the last 60–120 days to finish; change feed slowly over 2–3 weeks to avoid bloat and acidosis.

• Always offer clean water and a mineral suited to your area.
• Ask your processor about booking: many are booked months ahead.

When is it ready?

Beef breeds are often finished somewhere around 500–650 kg (1,100–1,400 lb); larger and dairy breeds can be heavier. Look for fat over the ribs and brisket rather than chasing a number. Set a target weight in Cowpanion to see a projected finish date.

Counting the cost

Log the purchase price and every bag of feed. Cowpanion works out your break-even price per pound or kilo, so you know what the animal really costs.

Keep it all in Cowpanion

Cowpanion charts daily gain, projects a finish date from your target weight and works out cost of gain and break-even price.

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This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Always follow product labels and call your vet when an animal is sick.

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