Increase Reproductive Efficiency

Reproductive performance is the foundation for a profitable cow/calf enterprise, the multiplier that drives profitability. Reproductive efficiency is measured in terms number of calves weaned per cow exposed to be bred.

The beef cow is an incredibly flexible animal, capable of production in an extremely wide range of environments, utilizing highly variable forage resources. In managing nutrient status of cows in extremely variable situations, condition scoring has emerged as perhaps the most important management practice in feeding cows for reproductive performance.

After calving during peak lactation the cow is in negative energy balance. This means that her energy requirements are higher than that being supplied by even the best forage. Negative energy balance can affect implantation of the embryo, the ability of a cow to carry a pregnancy, and embryo health, especially when it is severe or experienced for an extended period of time. During this early lactation period, from calving to breeding, the cow will draw from her body fat reserves (body condition) in order to provide milk for her calf. If she calves without sufficient body fat reserves to draw from then sub-optimal rebreeding performance will result.

Body condition scoring as a management tool is extremely effective in improving reproductive performance. Assessing the body condition (body fat) prior to calving and then managing the cows’ accordingly is the key to success.

Cargill Animal Nutrition has the tools to help you understand the issues important to reproductive performance. Our consultants will design a program with you that optimize reproductive performance based on your conditions.