Transitioning cattle from spring to summer feeding programs requires planning
As the seasons change and temperatures rise, it is important to help cattle transition into the appropriate feeding program. Maggie Justice, University of Arkansas beef cattle extension specialist, helps producers understand how to meet the needs of cattle and maintain health by what their forage base looks like and what they are lacking.
In the spring, cattle consume a more nutrient dense diet. Feeding depends on a producer’s forage base, meaning it can look different for individual programs. Cattle are primarily ingesting tall fescue grass, rye, oat, or wheat during this season.
While transitioning to the summer season, nutrients are lost due to forage quality depletion and feedings become less hearty. These summer forages are harder for the cattle to digest and cause changes in a herd’s energy and protein intake. The lack of energy from feeding causes the cattle’s bodies to lose stamina as they try and cool down in warm temperatures.
When assessing a herd to match the missing nutritional supplements and balance the forage for the summer, it is crucial for a producer to follow the phase of production the cattle are in. Spring calvers have higher needs during the summer compared to fall calvers.
“If they are spring calvers and have a three-month-old calf at their side, their needs are up. She is trying recover from her pregnancy and keep the calf at her side fed,” said Dr. Justice.
Vitamin needs change with the season as well. In spring, cows need a high magnesium level to avoid grass tetany. Grass tetany occurs when there are low levels of magnesium in cattle’s blood and can be fatal.
For summer, it is important to keep cattle on a magnesium mineral, but calcium and phosphorus should be introduced to their diet. These minerals help keep the cattle strong and healthy.
In addition to calcium and phosphorus, cattle need vitamin A and vitamin D supplements due to the changes in pasture quality. Supplements can be provided to cattle through a mineral block or loose form. Producers should assess their herd and their forage and decide which form works best.
To ensure a smooth transition for both the producer and the cattle, Justice has a few reminders. Consider the forage available to the cattle in the spring and think about how the nutrient quality and density is going to change as the season changes. This helps the producer understand where cattle’s needs are not being met with the offerings of the forage and determines what needs to be done to achieve their needs.
While considering the big changes, it is important to remember the little changes as well.
“My four little things are shade, water, vitamins, and minerals,” said Dr. Justice.
Local county extension agents and offices can help producers ensure they have a well-balanced diet and feeding program.
