A successful separation, part 3

Max Irsik, Extension veterinarian at the University of Florida, says while a solid weaning program probably benefits cow-calf producers more if they’re retaining ownership, it’s the responsible thing to do regardless.

“Even if they feel that they are not getting paid for it, it’s the job of the cow-calf producer to prepare those animals for the next stage of production,” he says.

A big part of that preparation? Proper nutrition.

There are two important variables in weaning nutrition: what calves eat and how it’s delivered. Calves should have easy access to trace minerals and vitamins to prime their immune system prior to weaning. They should also have experience with automatic waterers and eating out of a bunk.

Silage mixtures or good-quality free-choice hay are two options for getting them accustomed to a new feed source, but ranch resources might dictate what’s fed. Here are some tips to follow:

• It has to be highly palatable to drive intakes.
• It needs to be nutrient dense, since calves won’t be eating much for the first few weeks.
• It needs to be well-balanced between highly fermentable energy and roughage to avoid digestive problems.

The goal should be average daily gains (ADG) around 2 to 3 pounds. Passing weaning history along to subsequent owners helps calves stay on a level plane of nutrition throughout the feeding period, something that will help preserve health and quality grade potential down the road.

That’s all from us on this topic. Review the ideas, customize them to make your plan and then make it happen!

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