January Management Tips

The analysis of recent Silage results have shown that crude protein levels are below average.  Some test results are as low as 8% with the expected average being 12%.   In light of these results crude protein supplementation needs to be increased in replacement heifers are to meet their growth rate targets.

Protein Requirement of Replacement Heifers

Weanling heifers on target weight require a diet of at least 15% Crude Protein to maintain growth and sufficient weight gain over the winter period. Below is an example of two diets, consisting of silage and 2kgs of a 21% and a 16% ration.

Diet 2 is lacking in protein and as a result heifers will not be capable of reaching potential growth and weight gain over the winter period. While Diet 1 is reaching the adequate protein level, lower protein silages or heifers under target weight at housing will require extra protein supplementation.

Dosing

Pay close attention to withdrawal periods of drenches, pour-ons & injections. Some products have long milk withdrawal periods eg. A heifer or cow dried off and treated with an Ivermectin pour-on such as Animec on Dec 20th should not be due to calve until at least Feb 19th to avoid contamination of milk.