News — Cows

  The process of parturition -delivering the newborn calf- is the most stressful time in a cow's life. There is a significant decrease in immune system from two weeks before to two weeks after calving. There is an increased demand for available calcium as she comes into milk production. The ration changes in composition and energy density. Hormonal changes occur to facilitate the calf coming through the birthing canal. Pathogens have easier access to the body through the birth canal and udder. As the cow prepares to have her calf, many hormonal changes occur. A hormone called relaxin is produced,...

            The cold weather of late winter provides challenges to our cattle. Here are some of the situations I commonly see and my suggestions for solutions. Calves in Cold Weather             Until their rumens are developed, these baby calves are reliant on digestible energy intake to stay warm and grow. Immune function is greatly influenced by energy levels and body temperature. Here are considerations: High fat milk replacer – good quality milk fat is the best energy source for these babies. Increased feedings – during the coldest times, feeding 3 times per day for calves is very beneficial. Increasing the...