Page 37 - MWC 3-9-2023s

greater energy requirements why it's important to manage The Midwest Cattleman · March 9, 2023 · P37
Managing calving during muddy conditions for cattle. Muddy conditions conditions around the feed-
can increase energy demands ing area and try to maintain
by affecting the insulating a navigable path from loafing
ability of the hair coat and areas to feeding areas.
by simply increasing calories "There's no question that
burned as animals struggle most of these suggestions are
to walk through mud. Deep easier said than done, but in-
mud can increase energy re- vesting effort in these areas
quirements by up to 30%. can reap great rewards with
"This time of year I often greater calf survival, health
emphasize the importance of and performance," Clark
sufficient nutrition to sup- said.
port adequate body condition BEEF
score at calving and meet the
increasing requirements of
third trimester and early lac-
tation," he said.
"Cattle can burn many cal-
ories just walking through the
mud," he explained. "Think
about how difficult it can be
trying to walk through deep
mud. It is no different for a
cow. It is critical for health
and performance of cow and
calf that the diet is balanced
to meet the greater energy
requirements of challenging
environmental conditions."
Clark reminds produc-
ers that cows may choose to
avoid the challenge of getting
to the feed so may be prone
to simply eating less. That's

Callaway

Livestock

Center, Inc.

On I-70, 4 miles east of
Kingdom City, MO on outer road

573-642-7486

Feeder Sale

Monday
12:30 p.m.

1st Thursday Night
of Each Month

6:00 p.m.

Special Cow Sale

Jack Harrison
573-386-2138

John P. Harrison

573-386-5150