Successful calving begins now with sound spring breeding

By Gail Ellis  STILLWATER, Okla. – Many cattle ranchers are turning bulls in with their cows and heifers this time of year, and Mark Johnson, beef cattle breeding specialist for Oklahoma State University Extension, has some tips for a successful breeding season. “It’s always a good idea to do breeding soundness evaluations on bulls prior to breeding season,” Johnson said. “BSEs are a general rule of thumb and good management practice.” Once bulls are determined sound,…

Continue ReadingSuccessful calving begins now with sound spring breeding

Cattle Chat: Assessing dehydration in calves

K-State beef cattle experts share five ways to check the hydration level of calves  MANHATTAN, Kan. — When you don’t feel well, sometimes it is hard to stay properly hydrated and that can lead to serious health challenges.   The same is true for young calves, said the experts at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute during a recent Cattle Chat podcast discussion.  “If a calf is nursing and shows a good attitude it is…

Continue ReadingCattle Chat: Assessing dehydration in calves

Cattle Chat: Knowing when to feed hay

K-State beef cattle experts discuss ways to best meet the winter nutritional needs of the herd MANHATTAN, Kan. — When training for a sports competition, athletes often match their dietary requirements to the training regimen. In a similar way, a pregnant beef cow’s nutritional demands increase as she gets closer to the birth event, said the experts at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute on a recent Cattle Chat podcast. “As the cows move…

Continue ReadingCattle Chat: Knowing when to feed hay