Most Common Forages Fed to Cattle Cattle are ruminant animals, meaning they have a four-compartment stomach that allows them to digest fibrous feeds that monogastric animals cannot. The cow’s rumen contains microbes that ferment and break down roughage into nutrients that cattle can absorb. Forages like hay, silage, and pasture grasses are the foundation of
Nutrition for a Healthy Cow Herd Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive cow herd. What a dairy cow eats can significantly impact milk production, reproduction, overall health, and longevity. When formulating rations for dairy cattle, the goal should be to provide adequate amounts of nutrients required to support various physiological functions.
Bull Management for Breeding Soundness Selecting genetically superior bulls and managing them properly is crucial for ensuring breeding soundness and reproductive efficiency in cattle herds. Proper bull management involves evaluating bulls for fertility and providing optimal nutrition, housing, and health care. In this comprehensive approach helps maintain bulls in peak physical condition for sustaining breeding
Artificial Insemination Technique in Cattle For centuries, cattle farmers depended on the natural mating of bulls and cows to produce calves. But since the 1940s, artificial insemination (AI) has revolutionized cattle reproduction. This assisted breeding technology allows cattle producers to introduce desirable genetics into their herds quickly, efficiently, and safely. AI provides cattle breeders with
Estrous Synchronization Programs for Cattle Estrous synchronization is an important management tool for cattle operations looking to improve reproductive efficiency and calf production. By synchronizing the estrous cycles of cows and heifers, producers can achieve tighter calving intervals, heavier and more uniform calf weaning weights, and increased breeding efficiency. In this blog article, we discuss
Holstein Cattle Breed Spotlight The Holstein is one of the most popular and widely recognized cattle breeds in the world. With their distinct black and white markings, high milk production, and well-suited temperament, Holsteins have become the breed of choice for many dairy farmers across the globe. Origin and History The Holstein breed originated in
Estrous Cycle and Heat Detection in Cattle The estrous cycle, also known as the reproductive or ovulation cycle, is important for optimal reproductive performance in cattle. Detecting when cows and heifers are in heat allows for effective timing of artificial insemination or natural breeding. Understanding the bovine estrous cycle and implementing a heat detection strategy
Jersey Cattle Breed Facts and Origins Known for their rich, creamy milk and friendly personalities, Jersey cattle hold an important place in the worldwide dairy industry today. Originating from Jersey Island in the English Channel, these small brown cows have won favor among dairy farmers and homesteaders alike. If you’re considering adding Jersey cattle to
Brahman Cattle Breed Information The Brahman is one of the most popular cattle breeds in the world. This large breed of cattle originated in India and is known for its tolerance to heat, disease resistance, and excellent maternal abilities. Origin of Brahman Cattle The Brahman breed originated from the Bos indicus cattle that were brought
Hereford Cattle Breed Profile With their signature red bodies and distinctive white faces, Hereford cattle are an iconic beef cattle breed. Originally from England, Herefords gained popularity in the American West during the 19th century expansion of the cattle industry. Prized for their hardiness, docility and high-quality beef, Herefords remain a prominent cattle breed today.