The top reason a cow leaves the breeding herd is due to reproductive failure — either failing to produce a calf or falling out of the desired calving season. The long-term profitability of the operation is directly tied to maintaining cows in the herd for as long as possible and producing a calf every year. Unlike the current cattle cycle and calf prices, managing reproductive performance and maximizing weaning weights are factors within your contro
Lowering your risk: CRYSTALYX cattle stress-fighting products
With the current COVID-19 pandemic, there is more of a focus on the health and well-being of the population — especially high-risk groups. As we move into fall, there is also concern about the flu adding complications to COVID-19. Fortunately, the things we do to prevent and control the spread of COVID-19 also apply to controlling the flu.
Managing rumen health in dairy cattle and beef feedlot cattle during heat stress
As I write this blog, I am enjoying a break from the heat and humidity in Kentucky; today, it is only 84 degrees, and the relative humidity is at 48%. It almost feels like spring compared to the past several days, which have featured temperatures over 90 degrees and oppressive humidity.
Stable-lyx equine supplements: Fly control and smaller container options
The majority of CRYSTALYX self-fed supplements are designed for beef cattle on pasture, with several specialty products for calving, weaning and growing cattle. Early in the development of the CRYSTALYX product line, ranchers recognized the benefits of nutrient delivery, ease of use and the time savings associated with using CRYSTALYX when supplementing their cattle. They also noticed that the horses liked the molasses-based product but had concerns about whether a beef product was adequate for their horses.
Feed-through fly control options and the NEW Mineral-lyx® GFR
Warm weather will arrive soon and with increasing temperatures also come those annoying flies. They are more than simply bothersome; they are expensive! Flies contribute to decreased animal performance, increased risk of disease such as pink eye, and general animal suffering.
Preparing for calving season
As we close out 2019 and look forward to the 2020 calving season, it’s a great time to ensure that your cows, facilities and nutrition program are ready. It is also an excellent time to review the performance of the herd.
Delivering more protein while keeping control: CrystalBlox is the best of both
During the summer months, one of my favorite treats is ice cream. A small soft-serve cone is perfect because the serving size is controlled. However, I cannot keep a container of ice cream in the freezer, since there is no controlling the serving size — I always eat “just a little more” until, suddenly, the whole container is gone.
Grazing management: Modifying cow movement
Grazing management is a collective term for managing even grazing in cattle for more efficient utilization of the forage available. Part of the practice of grazing management includes protecting and enhancing riparian areas and watershed to support wildlife and recreational uses of the land.
Maintaining gut health: Preventing scours during this muddy calving season
Dealing with mud this calving season? The excess moisture we've seen in many areas will increase the risk of calf scours. We can't change the weather, but there are several things we can do to help minimize the risk of scours.
Rumen forage fiber digestion: The ruminant advantage
Many parts of the country have experienced a rather abrupt shift toward winter-like weather. Overnight low temperatures have been below freezing in Kentucky and are even reaching regions as far south as Georgia.
