"The concept of restricting cow nutrition in order to reduce calving difficulties via lighterweight calves has been tested by numerous researchers. While some, but not all, were able to reduce calf weights by at least a few pounds, it has been repeatedly proven that this does not reduce dystocia, and in some cases even increases it. In addition, the negative effects of inadequate nutrition during late pregnancy can include delayed rebreeding, reductions in overall pregnancy rates, lighter weaning weights, and increased neonatal mortality."
The Wrong Way To Reduce Birthweights
- Thread starter MikeC
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KMacGinley
Well-known member
So true.
Red Bull Breeder
Well-known member
I have always thought that well conditioned cattle had fewer calving problems, even with difficult births they just have more strengh to draw on.
TexasBred
Well-known member
MikeC":29xjh32a said:
There is a difference in restricting nutrition and meeting a cows nutritional needs as well as the needs of the developing fetus. Protein levels, energy levels and adequacy and proportion of vitamins and minerals in the overall ration have to be taken into consideration. A cow's needs can be met and body condition maintained with "proper nutrition" but overfeeding or starving can both be disasterous.
ALACOWMAN
Well-known member
a fetus will still rob moma of nutrition and still be too big for a normal or easy delivery , regardless if you are cheating her on nutrition yourself.. then you will have a cow in poor body condition nursing a BIG new born thats really putting a toll on her . then you will have too supplement her back to a body condition of aleast 5 to rebreed. its cheaper to maintain than regain
