By Dr Hannah Manning, Livestock Industry Development Officer Colac
Feed and water shortages are likely as we move into summer, so consider weaning your beef calves early to save on requirements.
Agriculture Victoria Livestock Industry Development Officer Dr Hannah Manning said early weaning can help your cows maintain condition and fertility while setting up the calves to receive the nutrition they need to thrive.
'Lactating cows require a large amount of energy. It's more efficient to convert feed directly into the calf weight than milk for a cow and calf unit.
'Providing the appropriate diet to a mob of dry cows and weaned calves, rather than cows with calves at foot, can significantly reduce feeding costs.
'Cows making milk need up to 100 litres of water a day and those not feeding a calf require less. Although calves will drink more once weaned, the savings come from reducing the cow's requirements.
'Weaning early also allows the farmer to complete a stocktake and sell or cull non-productive or aged animals.
'In most cases, calves should be weaned at around 120 kg, as they will be easier to feed. The younger the weaning age of the calf, the higher its energy and protein requirements are.
'Setting your calves up to succeed is very important, so exposing them to post-weaning supplements while they are still on the cow is recommended.
'Post-weaning supplements should be introduced to calves slowly via creep-feeding and vaccinating two weeks before weaning to protect against clostridial diseases.
'Avoid combining stressful procedures like castration and dehorning with early weaning.
'Weaners can be difficult to manage at times, so we recommend getting their nutrition and supervision spot-on to allow the calves to thrive,' said Dr Manning.
