Ensuring proper nutrition for your cows during calving and early lactation is crucial. Nutritional status throughout these stages can have a significant impact on the cows’ ability to breed back in a timely manner, as well as the overall health and productivity of the herd.  

Importance of nutrition at calving 

During calving, cows can undergo a significant amount of stress during the transition from gestation to producing milk for their calves, and the stress can deplete their nutrient reserves. It’s essential to provide them with adequate nutrition to keep them in healthy body condition, helping them recover quickly and supporting both their health and the health of their calves. Having them in a body condition score (BCS) of at least 5 at calving is recommended. First-calf heifers are still growing themselves, and it is recommended that they be in a BCS of 6 at calving.  

Leading up to and through calving, Bio-Mos^® 2 can be supplemented to reinforce a healthy gut microbiome. Bio-Mos 2, available in a variety of formulas, is derived from a select strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast and promotes good bacteria. It also supports gut integrity, colostrum quality and overall performance. 

Inadequate nutrition at this stage can lead to delayed breeding back, poor milk production, and increased risk of health issues that may be detrimental in the long term. By meeting the nutrient requirements of cows at calving, you can help set them up for success in early lactation and beyond. 

Nutrient requirements in early lactation 

During early lactation, cows continue to have high nutrient requirements, to support milk production as well as their own maintenance and overall health. Inadequate nutrition in early lactation can lead to decreased milk production, poor calf growth and delayed breeding back, which can have long-term consequences for the productivity of your herd. 

A beef cow’s highest energy requirement is at peak milk production, about 60 days post-calving. This coincides with getting her bred back in a timely fashion. Here again, healthy body condition is important as it has been shown to impact the interval from calving to the first estrus, known as the postpartum anestrous interval. Cows that are thinner at the time of calving generally have a longer postpartum anestrous interval compared to those in adequate body condition. 

By providing proper nutrition to your cows at calving and early lactation, you can help ensure that they are able to breed back efficiently and maintain a consistent calving interval. This can have a positive impact on the overall productivity of your herd, as well as your bottom line. From protein to minerals, supplementation for your cows at this critical time can pay major dividends.