Maximize Nutrient Absorption and Retention 
in Deer and Other Cervids

Maximizing deer nutrition is a year-round affair. Consequently, it is essential that deer have a properly balanced diet with adequate energy and protein, as well as trace minerals. However, perhaps most important is that the deer are able to properly digest and metabolize those nutrients to meet their physiological demand. One way to ensure that the digestive system is working properly is to be sure to supplement with Diamond V.

Diamond V has been research-proven to increase the digestibility not only of supplemental feed, but also of the natural diet as well. Consequently, deer not only get more out of their supplemental feed, but also will get more out of the natural forbes and browse. This additional energy, protein and minerals is then available for body weight gain, lactation and of course, antler growth.

During the developmental stage, antlers are comprised of approximately 80% protein with the remaining 20% being mineral (largely calcium and phosphorus). During this time of peak antler growth (spring and summer), protein needs are high as are mineral needs. In fact, mineral deposition in the antler is actually much greater than mineral intake. When that happens, bucks must actually use up mineral that they have in storage in order to grow antlers. When not enough mineral has been built up in storage, or when dietary mineral intake is low, antler growth is sacrificed and the deer will not reach it’s genetic potential. Respectable antlers may still be grown by older, genetically superior animals. However, one will still be sacrificing antler growth to some degree.

Research indicates that Diamond V increases organic matter digestibility of the feed. This portion is primarily energy and protein, and as mentioned, protein makes up 80% of developing antler mass. Further, ruminant research shows that animals fed Diamond V had greater macro-mineral digestibility. This would include minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. Consequently, bucks will be allowed to build up a higher mineral store prior to peak antler growth, and could potentially have more dietary mineral available during those months of peak antler development.

Now is the time to evaluate your deer supplementation program. By increasing the utilization of both natural and supplemental feeds, both body weight and antler growth can be affected. Diamond V results in maximum nutrient digestion, absorption, and retention for massive body weights and trophy class racks.