Best Practices for Feeding Pregnant Cows Before Calving
Providing the right nutrition is vital when feeding pregnant cows. Proper feed management ensures the cow's and unborn calf's health, supporting optimal growth, milk production, and smooth calving. This blog will explore the essential practices for feeding pregnant cows and helping you meet their unique needs.
Understanding Cow Nutritional Requirements Before Calving
As cows approach calving, their nutritional needs change dramatically. The last trimester of pregnancy is particularly critical, as this is when 70% of the calf's growth occurs. Understanding cow nutritional requirements during this period is key to ensuring the health of both the dam and the calf. The diet must provide:
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Protein: For tissue growth and the development of the foetus.
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Energy: To sustain the cow and support calf growth.
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Minerals and Vitamins: Calcium, magnesium, and vitamin A are crucial to prevent deficiencies that could lead to complications during calving or lactation.
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Fibre: To maintain healthy rumen function and digestion.
Meeting these pregnant cow feed requirements supports the cow's overall health and ensures a robust start for the newborn calf.
How Long Are Cows Pregnant and Why Diet Matters
How long are cows pregnant? Typically, cows have a gestation period of approximately 283 days or nine months. During this time, their dietary needs evolve, particularly as they near the final trimester.
In the early stages of pregnancy, maintenance feed is usually sufficient. However, as calving approaches, nutrient-rich feed becomes essential to accommodate the growing calf and prepare the cow for lactation. Poor nutrition during this critical period can lead to:
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Lower birth weights in calves.
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Difficult calving (dystocia).
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Reduced milk production post-calving.
By ensuring adequate feed tailored to the cow's daily nutrient requirements, farmers can avoid these issues and support sustainable herd health.
Energy Requirements and Daily Nutrients for Pregnant Cows
Understanding pregnant cows' energy and daily nutrient requirements is essential for maintaining their health and ensuring successful calving. The cow's energy needs increase as the calf grows, especially in the last 60 days before calving. Key nutritional considerations include:
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Energy: Pregnant cows require energy-dense feeds, particularly during the final trimester, to prevent weight loss and maintain body condition.
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Protein: Cows should consume 10-12% crude protein to support foetal development and lactation preparation.
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Minerals and Vitamins: Adequate calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D are crucial for skeletal development and to prevent milk fever after calving.
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Water: Always provide clean, fresh water, a vital component of pre-calving nutrition.
Failure to meet these needs can compromise the cow's health and the calf's viability. Tailoring feed to specific pregnant cow feed requirements helps ensure optimal outcomes.
The Role of a Cow Feeding Chart in Pre-Calving Nutrition
A well-designed cow feeding chart is valuable for managing nutrition before calving. Feeding charts allow farmers to monitor intake, balance diets, and ensure the herd's needs are met at every stage of pregnancy. Here's how to make the most of a feeding chart:
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Categorise by Stage of Pregnancy: Differentiate between cows in early, mid, and late gestation to adjust feed accordingly.
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Track Body Condition: Use body condition scoring to ensure cows remain in the ideal range (3 to 3.5 out of 5).
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Adjust for Forage Quality: Analyse forage regularly to ensure it provides sufficient nutrients and supplements where necessary.
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Incorporate Supplements: Use mineral blocks or feed supplements to address gaps in vitamins and minerals.
A structured feeding plan ensures that your cows meet their pre-calving nutritional needs, setting them up for a smooth transition into lactation.
At Mole Avon Country Stores, we provide high-quality colostrum feeding equipment, feeds, supplements, and expert advice to meet your herd's needs. Whether creating a cow feeding chart or sourcing feed for specific energy requirements, visit us in-store or online to find the products and guidance you need for success. Contact Mole Avon County Stores for more information today.
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Posted by Lauren Cook
4th February 2025
