There are several factors that affect birth weight in calves, including breed (some breeds tend to have larger calves and some are known for smaller calves at birth) genetics of sire and dam (size of calf at birth is heritable), length of gestation (also heritable), age and size of the dam (heifers tend to have […] Read more
Without a plan it is easy to go too high, or too low
Know when to rush and when to go slow
In a normal, unassisted birth, the calf is stimulated to start breathing as soon as his umbilical cord breaks (since that’s his lifeline from the dam) and/or his face and nose are uncovered when the amnion sac comes off his head. There are several causes for breathing failure in a newborn calf. These include the […] Read more
WATCH YOUR NUTRITION PRE-AND POST-CALVING Beware of excess protein
Nutritional needs of cows may vary considerably, depending on age (young and still growing, or mature, or old with poor teeth), size, breed, whether the cow is lactating and/or pregnant, whether the weather is warm or cold. Cattle can do well on many types of forage and feeds as long is it contains sufficient nutrients […] Read more
Select for calving traits, not style
A lot has been written and discussed about beef cow conformation, and the people showing cattle are well versed in what’s popular in the show ring and what characteristics tend to win the heifer classes. But in many instances the sought-after traits that might win a show won’t be a winner in the calving barn. […] Read more
Canadian Cattlemen Presents: Depth of Field
