Here’s this months Cattle Corner Tips! As your calves grow, their nutritional needs change. Making sure they get the right fuel is essential for their development and your bottom line. One strategy that can make a significant difference is creep feeding.
Creep feeding 60 days prior to weaning should be considered for a couple of reasons. This practice bridges the nutritional gap that often occurs as calves get older. During the later stages of nursing milk production is decreasing. The cow simply cannot produce enough milk to support the rapid growth of her calf. At the same time the calves are growing so there is a difference between available nutrients and what is needed to optimize calf growth.
By introducing feed early, you ensure your calves don’t fall behind. In addition, calves that have been creep fed, will usually wean easier because they are already accustomed to feeding equipment and eating feeds other than forages and milk. This familiarity reduces the stress of weaning day for both the calf and the producer.
Key benefits of starting creep feeding now include:
- Better Growth Rates: Calves reach their genetic potential faster.
- Smoother Transition: Animals experience less shock when separated from the cow.
- Immune Support: Proper nutrition helps build stronger immune systems before the stress of weaning.