Grain overload: When cattle consume large quantities of grain, it can lead to several ailments, including bloat, ruminal acidosis, slowing of the gut, dehydration and death.
Liver abscesses: Often associated with grain overload, liver abscesses reduce beef carcass values and decrease growth efficiency.
Heat and cold stress: Extreme temperatures often lead to fluctuations in feed intake.
Tips for maximizing health and performance
Detect BRD early.
The majority of BRD deaths occur within the first 45 days.
Early detection is essential for timely treatment.
Test feed ingredients for mycotoxins.
Mycotoxins in cattle can reduce feed intake and have a negative impact on rumen efficiency.
Knowing the mycotoxin concentration in each individual feed ingredient will help with diet formulation to minimize mycotoxin challenges.
Provide proper nutrition.
Rations need to be balanced to meet nutritional requirements according to changes in the available feed ingredients.
Check your stocking rate.
Proper stocking rates are essential, as they ensure that all animals have access to feed.
Keeping tabs on your stocking rate also helps you avoid increased pathogen loads, which can occur with overstocked pens.
Conduct a slow transition from starter to finishing rations.
This transition provides time for the rumen to adapt to higher-starch rations.
Provide appropriate supplementation.
Use research-proven products that support rumen efficiency.