Feeds
What type of feed do cattle rely on for proper digestion?
Roughages
How much body weight should dry, pregnant cows avoid losing over winter?
No more than 10%
What is creep feeding?
Providing extra feed for nursing calves
At what age can well-grown bulls usually breed?
15-18 months
What is the goal of breeding season?
100% calf crop
Which feed is used mostly during summer? (Hint it sounds like more of a place than a type of feed)
Pasture
Who needs more feed: mature cows or heifers?
heifers
What percentage of the herd needs replacement heifers each year?
15%
What is the purpose of estrus synchronization?
To get all cows to come into heat within a short time.
What is castration and why do we use it on male cows?
To remove testicles and manage behavior/quality and prevent accidental breeding.
What two feeds are commonly used in winter?
Hay and silage
Why do lactating cows need more feed?
They are producing milk for young or for harvest
At what age do heifers typically reach puberty?
12-15 months for puberty
However, you should wait until they are 2 years to breed.
What is the main benefit of artificial insemination?
Preferred genetics or higher conception rate
Name one method of dehorning.
Caustic paste, gouge, hot iron, saw, etc.
What practice keeps pastures healthy and maintains carrying capacity?
Rotational Grazing
Why should bulls not become too fat?
Reduces breeding performance
At what age do calves usually begin the weaning process?
4-6 months
Why is selecting bulls with good gaining ability important?
Their genetics influence calf growth rates and herd performance.
What is preconditioning?
Preparing calves for feedlot stress.
What is finishing
The final stage before slaughter. Focused on adding weight by targeting fat and muscle growth.
What type of pasture usually meets the needs of lactating cows?
High quality pastures
What is the main risk if a heifer does not reach adequate size before breeding?
Lower fertility and issues giving birth.
What kind of bull do we want to select for a herd?
A bull that improves the weakest traits of the herd.
Why do we want to use replacement heifers?
To either replace old cows or cows with a history of birthing issues.
Also correct: New bloodlines