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Dear Valued Subscribers,
As the days grow shorter and pastures lose some of their summer richness, it’s essential to adjust livestock nutrition to keep animals healthy and productive through cooler weather. Fall is a transitional season—nutrient demands shift, forage quality declines, and animals prepare for winter. Here are key considerations to ensure your herd stays in top condition.
Forage Quality Declines with Frost
- Decreasing Protein & Energy: As grasses mature and temperatures drop, protein and energy levels naturally decrease. Test hay and pasture to determine nutrient content and identify gaps.
- Supplement When Needed: Consider high-quality hay, silage, liquid feed, or grain to meet protein and energy requirements, especially for lactating animals or those being conditioned for breeding.
Key Vitamins & Minerals for Fall
- Vitamin A: Levels in stored forages decline quickly after harvest. Supplement to maintain reproductive health and immune function.
- Vitamin E & Selenium: Critical for muscle health and disease resistance, particularly when green forage diminishes.
- Calcium & Phosphorus: Maintain proper ratios (ideally 2:1) for bone strength and lactation.
- Magnesium: Even though grass tetany risk is lower than in spring, ensure adequate levels for overall metabolic health.
- Iodine & Trace Minerals: Essential for thyroid function and overall metabolism. Provide a balanced mineral mix with copper, zinc, and manganese.
Body Condition Scoring (BCS)
- Evaluate animals before winter sets in.
- Beef Cattle: Target a BCS of 5–6 for cows before calving.
- Sheep & Goats: Maintain moderate body condition to support breeding and gestation.
Hydration & Salt
- Clean Water: Even in cooler weather, livestock need abundant fresh water. Check tanks for ice as nights grow colder.
- Salt Blocks or Loose Salt: Encourage consistent water intake and support electrolyte balance.
Special Considerations by Species
- Cattle: Increase energy supplements if grazing stockpiled forage.
- Sheep & Goats: Provide copper-safe minerals; monitor for parasites, which can remain active in cool, damp weather.
- Horses: Transition gradually to stored hay; add vitamin E if pasture is limited.
✔️ Fall Nutrition Checklist
- Test forage for nutrient levels.
- Provide a balanced mineral supplement.
- Monitor body condition regularly.
- Ensure access to clean, unfrozen water.
- Adjust rations for pregnant or lactating animals.
Bottom Line:
Autumn nutrition sets the foundation for winter health and next year’s productivity. By addressing mineral and vitamin needs, supplementing declining forage, and monitoring body condition now, you can keep your livestock thriving through the colder months.
Questions or need help setting up a mineral program?
Contact your livestock nutritionist, veterinarian or local extension office—they're here to help!
Check out our High-Quality Vitamin, Mineral and Protein Supplements to help maximize your herds health. https://livestocknutritionsupplies.com/shop/
Stay informed, stay proactive, and together, let’s safeguard the well-being of our livestock.
Wishing you a stress-free summer,
Livestock Nutrition Supplies LLC
Info@LivestockNutritionSupplies.com
(531)333-3150
https://livestocknutritionsupplies.com/shop/
For any questions or further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you provide the best care for your animals.
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