Manage a return to grazing

It’s critical farmers manage this feed transition as the higher moisture content and lower dry matter in pastures, and sudden change in diet, can lead to animal health issues such as acidosis.

To better manage the transition and reduce the risk of health issues the following strategies can be utilised.

Transitioning feed is critical

Feed transition is important to reduce the impact of digestive issues and plant poisonings.

To manage this, gradually reduce the amount of dry season ration offered and replace it by providing limited access to pasture (an hour or two each day).

This change in diet should happen slowly over a week to allow the rumen to adjust.

Monitor pasture composition

Keep a watchful eye out for bloat, especially in young cattle, if they are grazing on fast-growing legume species, such as clovers, lucerne or vetch, and ensure the stock have ready access to fibre such as straw and cereal hay.

Before grazing, inspect paddocks for weeds. If there are high levels of weed infestations, check the plant species and seek advice on their potential toxicity and how to best manage.

Nutrient toxicities and deficiencies

Monitor for nitrate/nitrite poisoning, which is a higher risk in the first weeks after rain.

Symptoms include diarrhoea, salivation, breathing difficulties, and blue/chocolate mucous membranes.

If these symptoms are detected reduce access to pastures and extend the feed transition with a more balanced diet.

For more information on meeting the nutritional needs for your livestock visit: www.feedinglivestock.vic.gov.au/beef-resources/

By Richard Smith, Agriculture Victoria dairy extension officer.