Caring for Cattle in the Winter – Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction

When winter is approaching it is important to look at the condition of your cattle and make some nutritional preparations throughout the fall. Adequate nutrition plays a large roll in your cattle breeding back and weather conditions can make it all the more important. Many veterinarians believe that up to 70% of cows that do not breed back can have the root cause linked back to their nutrition and care through the colder months.

Some options for adding nutrient dense supplements to the cattle’s diet are a trace mineral supplement, quality hay and a protein supplement in the event that the grass gets dry or there’s too much snow. Pasture management is important if you are planning on keeping forage for the cattle to eat. Keep the grass at a minimum of 4 inches for the nutritional value. If cattle aren’t fed additional energy, they rob body fat to keep that keeps them warm and lose weight. It’s a good rule of thumb to feed cows as much hay as they will clean up and a mineral supplement helps them digest it all. Additionally, easy access to water is also key.

If you are limited on the amount of quality hay you have, weaned calves need the highest-quality feed. Next would be pregnant heifers and two-year-olds that just weaned off calves. The last 60 days of pregnancy are vital for colostrum production and the development of the unborn calf. If you feed hay, spread it out in large pastures and change feeding areas daily, rather than congregate cattle in small feeding areas.

A cow can handle zero or below-zero temperatures. But, animals with wet hides often can’t create enough body heat to stay warm. If possible, having wind barriers on your land would be helpful.

Winter is a tough time for cattle. Do your best to provide them with adequate nutrition to help maintain their body condition, ensure a successful pregnancy and have healthy calf you can later take to the livestock auction.