Enter the final cost, initial cost, and weight gain into the calculator to determine the cost of gain. This calculator can also evaluate any of the variables given the others are known.

Cost Of Gain Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the cost of gain.

COG = (FC - IC) / WG

Variables:

  • COG is the cost of gain ($/lb)
  • FC is the final cost of the animal ($)
  • IC is the initial cost of the animal ($)
  • WG is the weight gain of the animal (lb)

To calculate the cost of gain, subtract the initial cost of the animal from the final cost. Then, divide the result by the weight gain of the animal. The result is the cost of gain per pound.

What is a Cost Of Gain?

Cost of Gain (COG) is a financial metric used in the livestock industry, particularly in cattle farming, to measure the cost incurred to increase the weight of an animal. It is calculated by dividing the total cost of feed and other expenses associated with weight gain by the total pounds gained. This metric is crucial for farmers as it helps them understand the profitability of their feeding strategies and make informed decisions about their operations.

How to Calculate Cost Of Gain?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Cost of Gain.


  1. First, determine the final cost of the animal ($).
  2. Next, determine the initial cost of the animal ($).
  3. Next, determine the weight gain of the animal (lb).
  4. Next, gather the formula from above = COG = (FC – IC) / WG.
  5. Finally, calculate the Cost of Gain.
  6. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

final cost of the animal ($) = 150

initial cost of the animal ($) = 100

weight gain of the animal (lb) = 50