Dear Valued Readers,

Early spring calving is a critical time in cattle management, where the right nutrition can significantly impact the health and productivity of both cows and calves. The challenges of colder weather, variable forage availability, and increased energy demands make it essential to focus on tailored nutritional strategies. In this newsletter, we’ll discuss the key requirements for cattle during early spring calving and how you can optimize their diet for success.

Why Nutrition Matters During Early Spring Calving

Proper nutrition during early spring calving impacts:

• Calf Health: A well-nourished cow gives birth to healthier calves with stronger immune systems.
• Milk Production: Adequate nutrition ensures optimal colostrum and milk quality.
• Cow Recovery: Meeting dietary needs helps cows recover quickly, maintain body condition, and prepare for rebreeding.

Key Nutrients to Focus On

1. Energy
   • Early spring calving coincides with colder temperatures, increasing cows’ energy requirements.
   • Provide high-quality forages like silage or hay and supplement with grains to meet elevated energy demands.
2. Protein
   • Protein is essential for fetal development and milk production.
   • Aim for a diet containing 10-14% crude protein, particularly when early spring pastures are not yet fully established.
3. Minerals and Vitamins
   • Calcium and Phosphorus: Support strong bones and milk production.
   • Magnesium: Prevents grass tetany, especially in early spring pastures.
   • Vitamins A, D, and E: Boost immunity and overall health. Supplement these if forage quality is low or if pastures are dormant.
4. Fiber
   • Adequate fiber is necessary to maintain rumen health and proper digestion. High-quality hay and silage are critical when pasture growth is limited.
5. Water
   • Fresh, clean water should always be available. Lactating cows require significantly more water, up to 20 gallons or more daily.

Feeding Tips for Early Spring

• Body Condition Scoring (BCS): Monitor cows’ body condition. A BCS of 5-6 (on a 9-point scale) is ideal during calving.
• Supplement Feed: Use energy and protein supplements to bridge nutritional gaps caused by limited early spring pasture growth.
• Protect Feed: Store hay and silage properly to prevent spoilage, which is especially important in wet spring conditions.
• Gradual Changes: Introduce dietary changes gradually to prevent digestive upset.

Post-Calving Nutrition for Early Spring

• Lactation Demands: Increase energy and protein levels to support milk production during the early spring.
• Prevent Metabolic Disorders: Provide supplements to reduce the risk of milk fever, ketosis, and other metabolic issues.
• Pasture Transition: Gradually transition cows to spring pastures as they become available to avoid sudden dietary shifts.

Conclusion

A thoughtful nutrition plan tailored to early spring calving can make all the difference in the health and productivity of your herd. Work closely with your veterinarian or a livestock nutritionist to develop a feeding program that addresses the specific challenges of this season.

Here’s to a successful and healthy early spring calving season!

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.

Stay Warm, Stay Ready!

Tyler Stehlik
Livestock Nutrition Supplies LLC

LivestockNutritionSupplies@gmail.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.