There’s been no shortage of grazing in some areas, but the low dry matter means many cattle haven’t quite hit the growth rates we’d have liked. With housing time now approaching, it’s worth taking a good look at winter rations to keep them moving in the right direction.
Forage First
Forage will make up most of the diet through winter, whether it’s silage, hay, or straw. After such a mixed season, forage supplies and quality will vary from farm to farm, so it pays to make the best use of what you’ve got. Forage is still the cheapest feed on the place, but its quality can change a lot, even within the same clamp, so it’s worth getting it tested. Knowing the energy, protein, and fibre levels means you can plan a ration that keeps cattle growing steadily without wasting feed.
Try to match your better-quality silage to the cattle that need it most, such as youngstock and those close to finishing. Dry cows and stores will do perfectly well on more fibrous material. Good clamp management and tidy feeding-out also make a big difference, helping to cut waste and reduce spoilage.
What to Feed
Even with decent forage, most cattle will need a bit of extra help to keep weight gains on track, particularly the finishing groups. Concentrates based on cereals provide quick energy, while feeds like beet pulp or soya hulls release energy more slowly and help keep rumens settled. Growing cattle need plenty of protein for muscle development, so it’s important to get the balance right between rumen-degradable and by-pass protein for steady, efficient growth.
Minerals often get overlooked, but they’re a key part of any ration. A well-balanced mineral pack will support immunity, fertility, and frame development, all of which are under extra pressure when cattle are housed.
Things to Watch Over Winter
Once stock are inside, management becomes that bit more hands-on. Overcrowding can knock intakes and slow growth, so make sure there’s enough space at the feed face. Keep feeding times as consistent as possible, as steady intakes usually mean better gains. Clean water is a must, and it’s surprising how often that gets overlooked. Dirty troughs or slow flow can easily upset rumen function.
Also, keep an eye out for any signs of coughing or laboured breathing, especially in young cattle. Early cases of pneumonia can usually be managed if caught quickly, but it’s always worth speaking to your vet for the right advice and treatment options. Good ventilation makes a big difference too, helping to keep the air moving and disease pressure down.
It’s also a good time to review your worming and parasite control plan. After the damp end to the grazing season, lungworm and fluke could still be a concern, especially in cattle that stayed out late or grazed wetter ground. Worm burdens carried into housing can slow growth and reduce feed efficiency right through winter. A housing dose, guided by faecal egg counts and veterinary advice, will help tidy up any lingering worms, lungworm, or fluke so cattle start winter clean and healthy.
Looking Ahead
Winter’s a great time to get cattle back on track and set them up for turnout or finishing. With the right balance between forage, concentrate, and minerals, and a bit of attention to health and housing, they’ll keep growing efficiently through the colder months and be ready to make the most of the grass next spring.