The point of entry into a feedlot is a critical one. It can be a period of high stress for cattle that are not accustomed to being yarded and trucked. For many, it also involves a change in diet and environment. These stress factors lead to an increased risk of respiratory disease and poor weight gain, impacting the profitability of the feeding program.
Vaccinating to protect cattle against respiratory disease is one tool producers can use to help avoid poor feedlot performance. These are best administered before cattle enter the feedlot. Good planning is key to ensuring a smooth feedlot transition, and maximum live weight gain.
For young cattle, feedlot preparation really begins at weaning. A simple and effective weaning strategy can have a positive impact on future performance. Thought should be given to the method of weaning. An effective program typically involves yard weaning, where cattle are introduced to a safe, grain-based feed, such as Milne Feeds’ EasyBeef® pellet. This promotes rumen development prior to cattle entering the feedlot, allowing for optimum feed conversion. Regular, low-stress handling of weaners whilst in the yard provides the opportunity to inspect cattle and identify any shy feeders or disease. This practice will value-add to your cattle, making them more desirable for potential feedlot buyers.
Some key points for effective yard weaning include:
Studies have shown that yard weaned cattle have higher weight gain in the first month of lot feeding, and over the 90-day period, when compared with paddock weaned cattle. Yard weaning produces cattle that get on to feed faster and suffer less respiratory disease, as well as having a lower incidence of disease. When combined with vaccinating against respiratory disease, the improvement in weight gain of these animals is up to 8%. Inoculation costs, market specifications, breed of cattle, and individual operation details will influence the net benefit for businesses when both practices are combined.
If feedlot buyers are consistently happy with your cattle, they are more likely to continue buying from you and to prefer your cattle over others. The bottom line is: cattle well prepared for the feedlot will perform better, and these cattle will be sought after by feedlot buyers.
