Knowing when to step in and help during calving can feel like walking a tightrope—it’s all about timing. Act too soon, and you might be stepping in when nature could have handled things on its own. But wait too long, and you risk running into serious problems that could cost both the calf and the cow their lives. Finding that perfect middle ground takes practice, a good eye, and sometimes a bit of luck. For many ranchers, it’s one of the trickiest parts of calving season.
Jumping in too early might seem like a safe option, but it comes with its own risks. If a cow doesn’t need help but gets it anyway, you could unintentionally cause harm. Pulling too soon can injure the cow or calf, and it might even disrupt the critical bonding process between the two. That bond is essential for the calf to get the care and colostrum it needs to thrive. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is take a step back and let momma do what she’s built to do.
On the flip side, waiting too long can lead to heartbreaking outcomes. If a cow struggles for too long without assistance, you could lose the calf, the cow, or even both. And if it gets to the point where surgery is needed, you’re looking at a hefty vet bill on top of the emotional toll. The stakes are high, but don’t worry—with the proper knowledge and approach, you can find that balance and step in when it truly matters. That’s why I’ve pulled together some key tips to help you confidently handle these tough decisions and set you up for success this calving season.
Calf scours is a challenge that keeps cow/calf producers on edge, and for good reason. It’s the leading cause of financial loss in herds, hitting harder than any other health problem. What makes it so worrisome is how quickly it can show up and spread, much like wildfire sweeping through dry grass. To make matters worse, calf scours can be a bit of a puzzle, leaving many producers scratching their heads about what exactly they’re dealing with.
Regarding supplements, most cattle producers have a love/hate relationship. On the one hand, they see the value in how supplements improve cattle performance, but on the other hand, they cringe at the extra costs they bring. It’s why many producers hold off on feeding supplements unless absolutely necessary. But here’s the thing—viewing supplements as an investment rather than just another expense can actually save you money in the long run. With the right approach, supplements can boost herd health, improve performance, and ultimately increase your profits when it’s time to sell. This strategic view of supplements as an investment, not just an expense, can significantly affect your herd management and financial outcomes, making you feel financially savvy and strategic.
Winter brings a unique set of challenges for livestock producers. As temperatures drop, pastures go dormant, leaving forages unable to meet the nutritional demands of your animals. This challenge means purchasing supplemental feed becomes necessary, but with feed prices often climbing this season, balancing animal health and budget concerns can feel like walking a tightrope.
As winter sets 
Wheat pastures are a treasure trove for cattle operations, particularly in regions like Texas, where the climate allows producers to extend grazing seasons and optimize land use. Wheat, with its high-quality forage and dual purpose as a grain crop, is a boon for profitability, supporting both grazing and grain production. This versatile crop is a smart strategy to maximize your pasture, keeping costs in check while providing cattle with essential nutrition.
When it comes to managing cattle, you might not think of salt as a big deal—but it’s actually one of the most essential tools in a rancher’s toolkit. Like us, cattle need salt for crucial body functions, from digestion to muscle movement. Without enough salt, cattle can experience health issues affecting their growth and productivity, which is why salt management plays a crucial role in keeping herds healthy.
When people hear ‘grass tetany,’ they usually think of spring – lush grasses, green pastures, and cows grazing happily. But tetany can sneak up on you even in winter when you feed your cows hay or silage. However, it can also happen when cattle are fed harvested forages like silage or hay.
Formulating a ration for cattle is critical to any successful beef operation. There are times when forages alone will not supply what the cows need for their stage. When it comes that time, you will need to provide a supplement 
Roughages, often overlooked but crucial, are an essential part of a cow’s diet. While the focus is usually on crude protein, energy, and mineral content, understanding the role of roughages is equally essential. A certain amount of roughage is necessary to keep the rumen functioning and aid in the digestion of protein, energy, and minerals, contributing significantly to cattle’s overall health and production. This knowledge empowers you, the reader, to make informed decisions about your cattle’s nutrition.
