The last several weeks have been challenging for feeding cattle. With the cold weather and calves just coming on feed, calves have had huge intakes. Add to that our short days, and that can add up to problems such as bloat.
In A Nutshell
Particle size can be a contributor to bloat
Feeding twice per day can reduce incidence of bloat
With harvest in full swing, it won’t be long before we kick the cows out to crop residue for a while. There are a few management tips to keep in mind when grazing crop residue in order for you to get the best results and the best bang for your buck.
In A Nutshell
Check corn fields before turning cows into residue
Laminitis results from starch overload
1Ac of residue from 100 bu corn maintains a cow 30 days
Supply additional protein to mid-gestation cows on stalks
Grazing crop ground does not negatively impact yield
Check nitrates in small grains, sorghum/sudan, and silages
