Staying Sound

Research by Kansas State University suggests selecting for feet and leg traits is linked to how long cattle stay in the herd.

Composition of feet and legs in cattle could be closely linked with longevity and stayability in the cow herd, Jennifer Bormann told her audience at the Kansas State University’s (K-State) 106th annual Cattlemen’s Day in Manhattan, Kan., March 1. Bormann, professor of animal sciences and industry, spoke on research conducted by Bob Weaber, extension professor; former graduate students Lane Giess and Brady Jensen; and Bormann.

Troubleshooting Low Pregnancy Rates

Multiple factors to check if pregnancy rates are disappointing.

When the veterinarian comes to pregnancy-test, most cow-calf producers naturally hope for high marks. The experts seem to agree that a 90%-95% pregnancy rate is an attainable goal for well-managed beef breeding herds. In most production environments, a pregnancy rate of less than 85% is considered cause for concern. Gregg Hanzlicek, director of field investigations for the Kansas State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, says marks that low give reason to suspect something is amiss within the interaction of bovine female, male and their environment.

Operate with Intention

Tips to manage critical aspects of the ranch for success.

Simply put, some farmers and ranchers are more successful than others. Even though there are many outside factors that affect agriculture, one thing is consistent among successful operators.

Grafting Calves

A tip from experience offered for grafting an older calf onto another cow.

It can be difficult to graft an older calf that’s had its own mom for a spell. Maybe a cow got injured or crippled, and you let her start raising her calf until a substitute could be found. That calf is harder to graft because it’s had its own mom and its not used to you as its feeder person. The calf may be skittish around you. It may refuse to suckle another cow, and it probably doesn’t want you sticking a strange teat in its mouth.

Electric Fencing Basics

Successful electric fencing helps control flies and parasites. Here are tips to optimize electric fencing.

Electric fencing is ideal for grazing or pasture management by containing animals on a selected area of pasture or crop. It also may be used to protect gardens and landscapes from animal damage.

More Attached

Pain management important when castrating older animals.

Castrating baby calves is not very hard on them, but banding or cutting older calves is a different story. The beef industry is looking into pain management in these older animals.

David Rethorst, veterinarian with Beef Health Solutions, Wamego, Kan., recently served on a task force for American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP). “We update our dehorning and castration guidelines every five years and these were due to be updated in 2019.”

Angus Advisor

Our team of Angus advisors offer regional tips for herd management for the spring season.