By Blake Jackson
Feedlot transition refers to the first 21 to 28 days after new cattle arrive at a confinement facility. This period is critical, as calves face multiple stressors, including new environments, diets, water sources, vaccinations, handling, and commingling.
Successfully managing this transition is key to ensuring optimal growth and performance throughout the feeding period.
Many calves arrive dehydrated and fatigued from transport, which weakens their ability to fight disease. Experts recommend allowing at least 24 hours of rest after unloading, providing clean water and long-stem hay.
For cattle unfamiliar with water tanks, offering running water or visible access encourages drinking. Establishing a hospital pen and working with a veterinarian on herd health protocols ensures that sick animals are treated promptly and prevents disease spread.
Processing, which includes vaccination, implanting, and weighing, should occur after initial rest. Grouping cattle by weight, sex, and origin reduces competition, as re-sorting disrupts social hierarchies and can depress feed intake for up to 20 days.
Adequate water access at least one inch per head or 10% of the herd drinking simultaneously is essential, and water quality should be maintained through daily checks and weekly cleaning.
During the transition, feed intake is often erratic, typically stabilizing after 21 days. Managing nutrition carefully helps prevent digestive disorders such as ruminal acidosis, which can lead to ruminitis, liver abscesses, or pneumonia.
Gradual adaptation to a high-grain diet over 14 to 21 days allows the rumen to adjust, especially for calves previously on pasture. Limiting initial intake while increasing energy density slowly reduces digestive stress, and diets should be adjusted to meet daily protein requirements.
Once cattle are adapted, feed can be gradually increased by 5% every three days, ensuring clean bunks and consistent intake. Careful feed management during this critical period improves overall health, growth, and feed efficiency, setting the stage for a successful feedlot performance.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imaginegolf
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Dairy Cattle