Post-weaning diarrhoea (PWD) is a very common condition in weaned calves. It is mainly caused by two coccidia (Eimeria bovis and E. zuernii) that normally inhabit the intestinal tract. Coccidiosis is…
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Key messages: Critical mating weight (CMW) is the minimum weight at which heifers should be mated to ensure they have the greatest chance of cycling when they are…
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Pregnancy testing is a very valuable management tool. To ensure that the returns outweigh the effort and cost, it is essential to establish objectives to determine how the…
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This is the third of seven recorded presentations, demonstrating how to assess management options in response to drought. In this presentation, Fred Chudleigh (Agricultural Economist, Department of Agriculture…
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Phosphorus deficiency is a major problem for grazing cattle in much of northern Australia because of the low soil phosphorus levels in many soils. Whilst phosphorus is important in all bodily processes, the major impact of phosphorus deficiency in cattle is a significant reduction in appetite. This results in lower pasture intake and consequently lower energy and protein intake.
Key messages Cows lactating during the dry season in northern Australia often lose weight as the pasture diet can’t provide enough protein and energy. The loss of body…
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Major droughts generally develop following a dry spring and failure of subsequent summer rains. Decisions need to be made as to what relief measures are necessary. Important factors…
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Rearing a newborn calf can be extremely challenging and requires much patience and commitment. The key to success is keeping the calf in a comfortable environment, well fed…
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Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) are estimates of an animals’ genetic merit for a particular trait and an indication of how an animal’s progeny will perform. EBVs are expressed…
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Typically, it is easier and cheaper to feed a young calf (weaner) and its mother separately, than it is to feed a lactating cow/calf unit. In extreme conditions,…
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