Preparing Heifer for first calf

[inyati13]

I purchased an Angus/Simmental bred heifer about a month ago. I have her with another heifer who had her calf December 3. They are in a small lot about 1 acre and have access to an old tobacco barn for shelter. Just the 3 animals occupy the paddock. The heifer is due in March. I am feeding them alfalfa/grass hay with a high percentage of alfalfa (60-70 %). I put out loose salt and minerals for them free choice. She is suppose to be bred AI for easy birth. Is there anything I should be doing in addition or instead of what I am doing? Is it proper to keep her in the company of the other cow and calf? The other heifer is also Angus/Simmental.

 

[3waycross]

I'd like to see her condition. You sure don't want to get her too heavy. If you do it won't matter how much calving ease the bull had.

 

[inyati13]

3waycross, this is the issue that causes me worry. This heifer is not tall. She is big boned and stocky. I was raised on a farm with cows but I am not an experienced cow person. I like to think I have good common sense and I have a Master of science Degree in biology. I fret that she is too heavy. She came that way. Her belly is very broad. This cow has a big head and neck. Very good muscle. If I wanted to get her weight down, how do you know the minimum she needs to keep her healthy for the birth?

 

[dun]

3waycross, this is the issue that causes me worry. This heifer is not tall. She is big boned and stocky. I was raised on a farm with cows but I am not an experienced cow person. I like to think I have good common sense and I have a Master of science Degree in biology. I fret that she is too heavy. She came that way. Her belly is very broad. This cow has a big head and neck. Very good muscle. If I wanted to get her weight down, how do you know the minimum she needs to keep her healthy for the birth?

Stop the alfalfa and only feed grass hay and loose minerals

 

[3waycross]

3waycross, this is the issue that causes me worry. This heifer is not tall. She is big boned and stocky. I was raised on a farm with cows but I am not an experienced cow person. I like to think I have good common sense and I have a Master of science Degree in biology. I fret that she is too heavy. She came that way. Her belly is very broad. This cow has a big head and neck. Very good muscle. If I wanted to get her weight down, how do you know the minimum she needs to keep her healthy for the birth?

Stop the alfalfa and only feed grass hay and loose minerals

ditto that.