The Impact of Prepartum Supplementation Strategy on Cow-Calf Performance in May-Calving Mature Cows

Authors

J. A. Musgrave, University of Nebraska–LincolnFollow
Kacie L. McCathy, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
J. Travis Mulliniks, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Date of this Version

2024

Citation

2024 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report

UNL Beef, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Abstract

Implementation of minimal supplemental protein strategies during late gestation may have the potential to minimize any negative postweaning progeny performance while decreasing feed costs. A 3-yr study was conducted to evaluate the effects of mid- to late-gestation supplementation strategies on reproduction, cow body weight, and calf performance in May-calving mature range cows grazing upland native range. Supplementation was provided 2x weekly with treatments being 1) 05 lb per day of a 30% CP distillers-based supplement, 2) 1 lb per day of a 30% CP distillers-based supplement, 3) a negative control as a flexible supplementation strategy. The Flex strategy was developed to allow for brief and intermittent supplementation at 1 lb/d based on periods of acute environmental stress, such as snow cover, and is best described as flexible supplementation. Mid- to late-gestation supplementation strategy in May-calving cows had no effect on pregnancy rates or pre- and postnatal calf growth. Considering the cost for prepartum supplementation, feeding a protein supplement just during environmentally stressful periods during gestation appears to be a viable alternative to more conventional methods and reduces winter feed costs.