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SUPPLEMENTS - Can you afford NOT to feed them? |
With the price of mineral and vitamin supplements increasing, many producers may try to limit the amount of mineral fed, or completely eliminate their current mineral supplementation strategy. Some producers may just feed salt or trace mineralized salt to offset the price of the high quality mineral. Research has shown that salt or trace mineralized salt will not meet all of the nutrient needs of livestock. All livestock need a balanced mineral (macro and trace) and vitamin program to maximize animal health and performance. A balanced mineral and vitamin program is crucial for livestock to achieve maximum economic gain from the rations provided. FULL STORY
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Preparation for Calving
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Spring calving can place significant stress on both the newborn calf and cow. To minimize stress and ensure a successful calving season several factors must be taken into account:
• nutrition prior to calving
• colostrum management
• vaccinations
• parasite control
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Nutrition prior to calving is one of the most important factors for a successful calving season. If the cows body condition score (BCS) is lacking, milk production, subsequent rebreeding, and calf weaning weights can be negatively affected. It is imperative that increased mineral supplementation is properly utilized 30 days before and 60 days after calving.
If phosphorus supplementation is lacking, the cow may not rebreed on schedule, prolonging the next calving season. Trace mineral supplementation is also crucial to keep the immune system functioning at peak efficiency.
Kay Dee Feed Company offers two unique products to supply macro/trace minerals and vitamins needed to balance almost any ration. Super Ranger CLR Kaydets is fortified with a 1:1, calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (12% P) plus high levels of copper, zinc, manganese, and vitamins A, D, and E. If your ration requires less P, our economical Super Ranger 8.2 XTRA is fortified with a 2:1 Ca:P ratio (8.2% P) and similar levels of trace minerals and vitamins to aid with calving stress levels.
Colostrum management is imperative for calf health and efficient growth. Poor quality colostrum can lead to weak, depressed, unthrifty calves. Supplementing with Kay Dee Super Ranger CLR or 8.2 XTRA can improve colostrum quality by providing Se, Cu, Zn, and Vitamin E, all of which serve to boost immunity.
A solid vaccination program promotes improved passive immunity, growth, and overall calf health. Several vaccinations exist on the market, which cover a variety of potential diseases. Your local veterinarian will be able to advise which vaccination program best fits your production regimen.
Parasite control should not be overlooked prior to calving season. External and internal parasites (lice and worms) can place additional stress on the cow, decreasing feed efficiency and immunity while increasing cost of production. Lice and worms are not a major concern for young calves, however, coccidia, cryptosporidia, and giardia are of concern and can cause severe diarrhea. If these problems arise, consult with your local veterinarian for proper treatment. |
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