How Can Cattlemen Manipulate Their Operations for Optimum Reproductive Performance

Since 50 to 70% of input costs are associated with feed, manipulating nutrition can make operations more profitable, BUT manipulation must be done strategically not to affect future cattle performance. Knowing when to supplement cows and what form of supplement will work in a given operation at a given time is often clouded by what feedstuffs a producer has available. In essence, understanding the production cycle of the cow (Figure 1), the cow’s nutritional needs, and how to manipulate the diet may save producers financially and will prevent future reproductive failures.