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Best Protein Feed For Deer Antler Growth (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for ways to help your deer grow healthy antlers, protein feed is a game-changer. Deer antlers require a lot of protein to grow successfully, which is why adding more to their diet is beneficial. However, before deciding on which protein feed to buy, there are a few factors to consider.

Firstly, you need to make sure the protein feed is of high quality. Since not all supplements are made from the same ingredients, choosing one that is rich in quality protein is vital. Additionally, you must be aware of other nutrients that are included in the mix. Check if there are added minerals and vitamins that are required for antler development.

Secondly, take time to assess the quantity that you will need to buy. You do not want to spend so much on feed only to end up with leftovers. In contrast, inversely purchasing smaller quantities can be expensive since you will probably pay more for shipping and handling.

Finally, ask yourself why this is essential. Suppose you want to hunt the deer later. In that case, well-fed deer will have better antlers, resulting in better-quality trophies. Taking care of your deer is essential to ensure they reach their full potential.

Where can you buy protein feed for deer antler growth? What are the best brands available, and how do they differ from each other? What are some of the factors that affect deer antler growth? Keep reading to find out more about keeping your deer healthy and experiencing the benefits of protein feed.

10 Best Protein Feed For Deer Antler Growth

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for attracting deer, providing antler-building nutrition, and supplementing mineral and vitamin deficiencies in their diet.
2
Ideal for promoting high protein antler and bone growth in deer as a mineral feed supplement.
3
This product is ideal for attracting deer with high protein and nutrition for fall into late season hunting.
4
Ideal for feeding wildlife, especially deer, in a controlled and consistent manner without the need for constant monitoring.
5
Ideal for attracting and promoting maximum body and antler growth in deer.
6
It is an ideal deer feed with added protection against water damage and climate effects.
7
The product is ideal for creating a high protein and palatable energy food plot for deer on 1/4 acre.
8
The product is ideal for feeding protein to game animals.
9
It is ideal for attracting and feeding wildlife such as deer and turkeys, and does not contain any coatings or weed seeds.
10
It is ideal for creating a food plot that promotes antler growth and attracts deer in spring or fall.
The product is ideal for attracting deer, providing antler-building nutrition, and supplementing mineral and vitamin deficiencies in their diet.
Ideal for promoting high protein antler and bone growth in deer as a mineral feed supplement.
This product is ideal for attracting deer with high protein and nutrition for fall into late season hunting.
Ideal for feeding wildlife, especially deer, in a controlled and consistent manner without the need for constant monitoring.
Ideal for attracting and promoting maximum body and antler growth in deer.
It is an ideal deer feed with added protection against water damage and climate effects.
The product is ideal for creating a high protein and palatable energy food plot for deer on 1/4 acre.
The product is ideal for feeding protein to game animals.
It is ideal for attracting and feeding wildlife such as deer and turkeys, and does not contain any coatings or weed seeds.
It is ideal for creating a food plot that promotes antler growth and attracts deer in spring or fall.

1. Deerfusion: Antler-Building Nutrition For Your Plot

The Deer Spring and Summer Protein Boost is a professionally formulated blend that is specifically intended to cater to the nutritional needs of deer during the spring and summer months. This product is equipped with a 10% protein boost, essential vitamins, and specific minerals that are supplied in the correct forms and ratios to support antler growth, pregnancy, and lactation. Additionally, this blend also features scent and flavor attractants and enhancers to entice deer to the area.

This product is incredibly easy to use, just rake or shovel an area 2 to 3 feet in diameter and mix the blend with the soil. It is designed to be utilized in ground sites to provide deer with a nutritious and tasty food source that will help them thrive during the spring and summer seasons.

Pros

  • Contains a 10% protein boost
  • Professionally formulated blend catered to the nutritional needs of deer during spring and summer
  • Includes necessary vitamins and specific minerals in the correct forms and ratios to support antler growth, pregnancy, and lactation
  • Contains scent and flavor attractants and enhancers
  • Easy to use – just mix with soil in a 2 to 3 feet diameter area
  • Designed for use in ground sites

2. Buck's Growth Fuel: Mineral Deer Attractant & Feed.

The Bragg'n Bones Mineral Attractant for deer is a high protein deer food supplement that comes in a 10lb bag. It contains a protein content of 38-44%, which promotes the development of bones and antlers, and improves the overall health of deer. This superior mineral is an excellent choice for deer enthusiasts who want to attract and improve the quality of their herd.

The powerful attraction of this food supplement for deer is due to the presence of corn, which is loved by wild deer. The roasting process stabilizes the fat for better digestion, converting more to energy. It is a perfect addition to your corn feeding program for higher protein and attracting power.

To use the Bragg'n Bones deer mineral, simply pour it in the desired place over the top of a stump or log, or in a shallow dug hole to create a deer mineral lick. You may add water at a 3:1 ratio (3 parts water to 1 part mineral) or pour it out straight on the ground.

For hunters, it is suggested to monitor the effectiveness and results with a trail camera once you apply Bragg'n Bones mineral feed for deer. If deer overpopulate the mineral lick, you may start a new location nearby. Re-apply as the visual product disappears.

Pros

  • High protein content promotes development of bones and antlers
  • Improves the overall health of deer
  • Contains corn which is loved by wild deer
  • Roasting process stabilizes the fat for better digestion
  • Can be used to attract and improve the quality of your herd

Cons

  • – May require monitoring and re-application

3. Deer Feast: Big Rack Growth & Nutrition

RAKK REAPER DEER PLOT SEED is a premium blend of purple top turnips, rape, tillage radish and forage kale, specially formulated to provide high protein, maximum forage tonnage and late-season nutrition for total herd health. With RAKK REAPER DEER PLOT SEED, you can plant as early as mid-summer and be ready for the first day of the season well into the late season. This food plot blend is developed through extensive research and work with agronomists and land consultants to ensure the best results for your deer herd. RAKK REAPER DEER PLOT SEED is a popular and easy-to-grow blend of leafy greens and sweet bulbs that will attract and hold more deer from fall well into late season. This cold-tolerant blend is our favorite during the late season. It maximizes the health of your deer herd with high protein, vitamins, minerals, and nutrition, which helps average bucks become studs. All Rakk Fuel plot seed blends offer the best and freshest seed possible for the highest germination period and optimal growth.

RAKK REAPER DEER PLOT SEED comes in a 5 lbs (2.26 kg) package that can plant up to 1/2 acre of land. This seeding rate is virtually unmatched by anything else available in the market. With its leafy greens and sweet bulbs, this blend is an excellent source of nutrition for deer herds. Moreover, it is cold-tolerant, making it an excellent choice during the late season. The high protein content of this blend helps in the growth and health of bucks, making them stronger and healthier. With RAKK REAPER DEER PLOT SEED, you can be sure that you are providing the best nutrition possible to your deer herd.

RAKK REAPER DEER PLOT SEED is a must-have for any deer hunter who wants to ensure the best possible health of their deer herd. Its blend of purple top turnips, rape, tillage radish, and forage kale provides excellent nutrition to deer, making them healthier and stronger. Additionally, it is easy to grow and cold-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for the late season. With RAKK REAPER DEER PLOT SEED, you can be sure that you are providing the best possible nutrition to your deer herd.

Pros

  • Provides high protein and maximum forage tonnage for total herd health
  • Contains a blend of leafy greens and sweet bulbs that attract and hold more deer
  • Cold-tolerant blend for late-season nutrition
  • Package can plant up to 1/2 acre of land
  • Easy-to-grow blend
  • Helps average bucks become studs

4. Banks Outdoors Feed Bank 600-Lb. Gravity Feeder

The Coon proof and Waterproof Feeder is a highly efficient and durable feeding solution designed to mount on a single 6×6-post (post not included). It comes with an adjustable feeding port that allows you to control the flow of feed, ensuring you can provide just the right amount of feed to your wildlife. The single post design ensures that it won't interfere with or damage antler growth, making it a safe and responsible feeding option.

This feeder is designed to withstand tough outdoor conditions, with a large, watertight cover that makes filling easy while keeping the feed fresh. With its robust construction, it can last for years without wear and tear, making it a cost-effective and practical feeding solution for your outdoor space.

Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or a farmer who wants to ensure that your livestock has access to fresh feed, the Coon proof and Waterproof Feeder is an excellent choice that you won't regret.

Pros

  • Coon proof and waterproof design ensures that the feed stays dry and fresh
  • Adjustable feeding port allows you to control the flow of feed
  • Single post design won't interfere with antler growth
  • Easy to fill and highly durable construction ensures long-lasting use

5. Antler King Attract-N-Fuel Deer Attractant For Maximum Body And Antler Growth | 20 Lb Bag

Antler King's Attract-N-Fuel is a 20-lb deer attractant, specially formulated to provide premium nutrition and enhance overall digestive abilities. This product is a proprietary blend, featuring a flavoring derived from extensive research and Generation Next Technology. Attract-N-Fuel contains 40% pellet and 60% protein-based feed. The protein portion contains an 18% protein supplement designed to maximize body and antler growth. Furthermore, a special concentrated yeast culture optimizes digestion to allow for greater nutrient availability to the body and antler growth. Attract-N-Fuel can be mixed with corn or used on its own to attract deer in front of game cameras and stand locations. It can be poured on the ground or used in a gravity or trough style feeder. This attractant should be used on a year-round basis to maximize the genetic potential of the entire herd. However, before using Attract-N-Fuel, it is recommended that you check your local game laws for baiting regulations.

Antler King is a leader in wildlife nutrition products, food plots, minerals, and attractants. They understand that bigger bucks and healthier deer are achievable through proper nutrition. Attract-N-Fuel is a great option for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts who want to maximize the genetic potential of their herd. This product is designed to rebuild, refuel, replenish, and repeat. It attracts deer while providing premium nutrition, allowing for maximum body and antler growth. Additionally, Attract-N-Fuel's concentrated yeast culture optimizes digestion, enabling greater nutrient availability for the body and antler growth. Overall, Attract-N-Fuel is a year-round feed supplement that can help to achieve the goal of bigger bucks and healthier deer.

Antler King's Attract-N-Fuel is a high-quality deer attractant that offers numerous benefits. This product features a proprietary flavoring derived from extensive research and Generation Next Technology, which enhances overall digestive abilities. Attract-N-Fuel is a 40% pellet/60% protein-based feed, containing an 18% protein supplement designed to maximize body and antler growth. Furthermore, the concentrated yeast culture optimizes digestion, allowing for greater nutrient availability. Attract-N-Fuel can be used on its own or mixed with corn to attract deer in front of game cameras and stand locations. It can be poured on the ground or used in a gravity or trough style feeder. This product is a year-round feed supplement that can help to maximize the genetic potential of the entire herd. It is important to check local game laws for baiting regulations before using Attract-N-Fuel.

Pros

  • Proprietary flavoring enhances overall digestive abilities
  • Contains 18% protein supplement designed to maximize body and antler growth
  • Special concentrated yeast culture optimizes digestion, allowing for greater nutrient availability
  • Can be mixed with corn or used on its own
  • Can be poured on the ground or used in a gravity or trough style feeder
  • Year-round feed supplement that can help to maximize the genetic potential of the entire herd

Cons

  • – May not comply with local game laws for baiting regulations

6. Purina | Antlermax Deer Feed Watershield Climate Guard 20 | 50 Pound (50 Lb) Bag

AntlerMax Pellets are a must-have for those who want to support the optimal antler size and mass development of deer. The pellets are packed with high-quality proteins, including AntlerMax By-Pass Protein technology, delivering a high concentration of amino acids necessary for the growing antler. With optimum levels of essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, and vitamin D, AntlerMax Pellets help to promote antler growth, density, and strength. The proprietary AntlerMax Mineral Technology, which includes organic trace minerals, is designed to replenish depleted bone material stores during antler mineralization.

These pellets are an excellent supplement for deer during periods of nutritional stress. They help to maintain their vigor and support body growth by providing high-quality protein that maintains muscle mass. Additionally, AntlerMax Pellets have high palatability, which makes them more attractive to deer. They are enhanced with flavoring to attract deer to the feed and provide them with a balanced diet.

Pros

  • High-quality proteins including AntlerMax By-Pass Protein technology deliver high concentrations of amino acids needed by the growing antler
  • Optimum levels of essential vitamins and minerals are necessary for antler growth, density, and strength
  • Contains proprietary AntlerMax Mineral Technology including organic trace minerals for replenishing depleted bone material stores used during antler mineralization
  • Helps deer maintain vigor during periods of environmental nutritional stress
  • High palatability enhanced with flavoring to attract deer to the feed so they receive the benefit of a balanced diet

7. Great 8 Deer Delight Food Plot Kit

The Antler King is a well-known name in the wildlife nutrition market that offers an array of food plot seeds, minerals, and attractants. Their Great 8 Food Plot Seed Mix is a specially curated blend of eight different seed varieties that mature at different times throughout the hunting season to ensure that deer always have something to eat. The 8 lb bag of fall annual food plot blend includes Winter Oats, Ryegrass, Cereal Rye, Forage Peas, Radish, Buckwheat, Turnip, and Rapeseed, which are all deer favorites. The Great 8 Food Plot Seed Mix is an excellent choice for farmers and hunters who want to attract and feed deer on their property.

The Great 8 Food Plot Seed Mix is an excellent source of protein and critical energy that sustains the deer herd well into the harsh and cold winter months while promoting antler growth in the early spring season. The food plot seed mix is easy to plant and requires a pH level of around 6.5 to 7.0. One bag of the Great 8 Food Plot Seed Mix will plant approximately 1/4 acre (11,000 sq. ft.) of land. For best results, spread 100 lbs. of 19-19-19 fertilizer per ¼ acre and till into the soil before planting. The seeds should be planted less than 1/4" deep.

Overall, the Great 8 Food Plot Seed Mix is an excellent investment for those who want to improve the quality of deer on their property. The seed mix's unique blend of eight different seed varieties ensures that deer have a smorgasbord of great browse to eat throughout hunting season while promoting antler growth in the early spring season. The seed mix is easy to plant and requires minimal maintenance, making it a popular choice for farmers and hunters alike.

Pros

  • Specially curated blend of eight different seed varieties ensures that deer always have something good to eat
  • Promotes antler growth in the early spring season
  • Easy to plant and requires minimal maintenance
  • One bag can plant approximately 1/4 acre of land

8. 2000lb. Xtreme Protein Feeder – Model Xpf2000

The 2000 lb. Capacity Hopper is a major innovation that is built to be indestructible with its roto-molded design. This hopper will never rust, ensuring long-lasting use. It is also 26% cooler than steel, which helps to keep feed dry and fresh for your animals. The large 6" feed ports allow for easy access and the adjustable feed flow control ensures that you can regulate the amount of feed that is dispensed.

This hopper comes with a heavy-duty, powder-coated steel stand that has skids for easy portability. This makes it easy to move the hopper from one location to another. The hopper is also designed with a wide opening for easy filling and cleaning. This makes it easy to maintain the hopper and keep it clean for your animals.

Overall, the 2000 lb. Capacity Hopper is a great investment for anyone who wants to keep their animals well-fed and healthy. With its durable construction and innovative design, this hopper is sure to last for years to come.

Pros

  • Durable roto-molded design ensures that this hopper is indestructible
  • The hopper will never rust, ensuring long-lasting use
  • 26% cooler than steel, which helps to keep feed dry and fresh
  • Large 6" feed ports allow for easy access
  • Adjustable feed flow control ensures that you can regulate the amount of feed dispensed
  • Heavy-duty, powder-coated steel stand with skids for easy portability
  • Wide opening for easy filling and cleaning

9. Eretz Wild Forage: Attract Deer & More!

The Wildlife Seed Blend is a premium mix of seeds that guarantees a high protein and attractive food plot for deer and other wildlife. The blend consists of white clover, oats, and red clover, all of which are authentic Willamette Valley, Oregon USA grown seeds. The mix is carefully formulated to ensure that no fillers or weed seeds are added to the blend, making it a reliable choice for those who are looking for a quality product.

This Wildlife Seed Blend is versatile and fast-growing, making it suitable for most North American climates. However, it may not be ideal for extreme heat or cold conditions. It can be used for food plots, forage yards, or even in the back 40. With this blend, you can create a healthy and thriving habitat for deer and other wildlife.

The Wildlife Seed Blend is a great choice for anyone who wants to attract wildlife to their property. It is made with only the best seeds, which means that you can be confident that you are providing your local wildlife with a high-quality food source. The mix is also easy to grow and maintain, making it a popular choice among both novice and experienced gardeners.

Pros

  • Premium mix of seeds with no fillers or weed seeds included
  • High protein and attractive food plot for deer and other wildlife
  • Versatile and fast-growing blend suitable for most North American climates
  • Authentic Willamette Valley, Oregon USA grown seeds
  • Easy to grow and maintain

Cons

  • – May not be ideal for extreme heat or cold conditions

10. Deer Magnet Clover Seeds For Imperial Plots.

This product is specially designed to promote the growth of healthy and heavier fawns in does. It contains high levels of antler-building protein that help does produce more milk, which is essential for the growth and development of the fawns.

Additionally, this product is extremely tolerant of both cold and hot weather, as well as drought. It is coated with RainBond, which enhances its seedling survivability, making it more resilient and long-lasting.

With just a single planting, this product can last up to 5 years, providing an extended period of benefits for the wildlife in the area where it is planted.

Pros

  • Promotes the growth of healthy and heavier fawns in does
  • Contains high levels of antler-building protein
  • Helps does produce more milk
  • Extremely tolerant of both cold and hot weather, as well as drought
  • Coated with RainBond, which enhances its seedling survivability
  • Can last up to 5 years from a single planting

Best Protein Feed For Deer Antler Growth FAQs

Are there any specific amino acids or other nutrients that are particularly important for antler growth?

Yes, there are specific amino acids and other nutrients that are particularly important for antler growth. One of the most important amino acids for antler growth is arginine. Arginine is a precursor to nitric oxide, which is important for blood flow and nutrient delivery to the developing antlers. Other important amino acids for antler growth include lysine, methionine, and cysteine.

In addition to amino acids, minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are also important for antler growth. These minerals are essential for bone development and strength, which is crucial for the growth and support of antlers.

It is also important for deer to have access to a balanced and high-quality diet that includes sufficient protein, vitamins, and minerals. Without proper nutrition, antler growth can be stunted, resulting in smaller or weaker antlers.

Overall, a combination of specific amino acids, minerals, and a balanced diet are all important factors for optimal antler growth in deer.

Can protein feed for deer antler growth be supplemented with other minerals or vitamins?

Yes, protein alone is not enough to promote optimal deer antler growth. In fact, other minerals and vitamins are essential in ensuring the proper development of antlers. For instance, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are crucial minerals that support antler growth. Calcium plays a vital role in bone formation, while phosphorus is essential for energy metabolism and cell division. Magnesium, on the other hand, enhances bone strength and supports the immune system.

Moreover, vitamins such as vitamin D, which aids in calcium absorption, and vitamin E, which promotes healthy tissue growth, are also beneficial for antler growth. Vitamin C, another important vitamin, supports collagen production which is essential for bone formation.

In summary, supplementing protein feed for deer antler growth with other minerals and vitamins is necessary for optimal antler development. These essential nutrients work together to promote healthy bone formation, energy metabolism, tissue growth, and immune system support.

How much protein should be included in a deer's diet to support healthy antler growth?

Deer are herbivores and primarily feed on plants, such as grasses, leaves, and buds. However, during the antler growth period, deer require an adequate amount of protein to support healthy antler growth. The amount of protein required depends on several factors, including age, sex, and the size of the deer.

According to research, a deer's diet should contain at least 16-18% protein during the antler growth period. This is because antlers are primarily composed of protein and minerals. If a deer's diet lacks sufficient protein, it may result in weaker antlers that are more prone to breakage or deformities.

Deer can obtain protein from various sources, including legumes, nuts, and acorns. However, their primary protein source is typically from vegetation such as clover, alfalfa, and soybeans.

In conclusion, a deer's diet should contain at least 16-18% protein during the antler growth period to support healthy antler growth. It is essential to ensure that deer have access to high-quality protein sources to avoid potential health problems and deformities.

What is the best way to introduce protein feed into a deer's diet to support antler growth?

When it comes to introducing protein feed into a deer's diet for antler growth, it's important to do so gradually. Deer have sensitive digestive systems, and sudden changes in diet can cause digestive issues. Begin by slowly adding small amounts of protein feed to their diet and gradually increase the amount over time. It's important to choose a high-quality protein feed that is specifically designed for deer and contains the necessary nutrients for antler growth. Look for feeds that contain at least 16% protein and are high in minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. Additionally, it's important to provide deer with access to fresh water at all times and to monitor their weight regularly to ensure they are receiving the proper amount of nutrition. With patience and care, introducing protein feed into a deer's diet can help support healthy antler growth.

What specific types of protein feed are best for promoting deer antler growth?

Deer antler growth is a fascinating phenomenon that has been the subject of research for many years. The growth of antlers is primarily fueled by the intake of protein-rich feeds. The specific types of protein feed that are best for promoting deer antler growth are those that are high in essential amino acids.

One of the primary sources of protein feed for deer is alfalfa. Alfalfa is a legume that is rich in protein and contains all the essential amino acids that deer require for antler growth. Other protein-rich feeds that are beneficial for deer antler growth include soybean meal, cottonseed meal, and corn gluten meal.

It is important to note that while protein is essential for deer antler growth, it should not be the only focus of their diet. Deer also require other nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates to support their overall health and growth.

In conclusion, the specific types of protein feed that are best for promoting deer antler growth are those that are high in essential amino acids. Alfalfa, soybean meal, cottonseed meal, and corn gluten meal are all excellent sources of protein that can be included in a deer's diet to support antler growth. However, a balanced diet that includes other essential nutrients is crucial for overall health and wellbeing.

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