The growth performance of cow-calf beef cattle is a critical aspect of livestock management, influencing the overall productivity and profitability of beef operations. Colostrum quality, early life nutrition and weaning practices have a big impact on affect the growth performance of calves in cow-calf operations.

Proper prenatal care for cows is crucial for the health and success of their calves. A gestating cow should receive adequate nutrition to support both her maintenance and fetal growth. Cows in a body condition score of 5.0 – 6.0 (on a 1-9 scale) tend to have a better reproductive performance, deliver healthier calves with higher vigor, and have a lower incidences of dystocia (see Table 2). Nutrition of beef cows during pregnancy can have a big impact on the quality of the calf. In a trial carried out at the Oregon State University1, cows fed Selko Vivalto, a supplement containing rumen protected vitamin B complex, delivered calves that had a higher bodyweight at turn-out (see Table 1).

Cows with a BCS of 4.0 or thinner at calving have a slower calving process, produce less colostrum, and give birth to calves that are less vigorous and stand later2. As a result, these calves have lower immunoglobulin levels, making them more vulnerable to early calf-hood disease challenges. This illustrates the importance of targeting mature cows to calve in a BCS of at least 5.0. First-calf-heifers require additional nutrients to support growth, because they have only reached about 85% of their mature weight after calving. Therefore, aim at a BCS of 6.0 at calving for beef heifers in cow calf operations.

Colostrum from beef cattle, the first milk produced by the mother post-birth, is rich in nutrients and antibodies. It is essential for the newborn beef calf, providing the initial protection against pathogens. The calf's digestive system is uniquely adapted to absorb these antibodies efficiently within the first few hours of life, which is why timely colostrum intake is crucial. Beef calves receiving adequate colostrum demonstrate better disease resistance and improved growth performance throughout their lives. A study in beef cows3 has shown that it is possible to increase the level of antibodies in colostrum by feeding Selko Fytera Secure during pregnancy. A study carried out in dairy cows4 has shown that feeding Selko IntelliBond during pregnancy and early lactation increases the amount of colostrum produced (see Figure 1).

Nutritional management of beef calves is a complex process that already begins during pregnancy. The early stages of a calf's life are marked by rapid growth, requiring a balanced diet rich in protein, energy, minerals, and vitamins. Metabolic programming is a process where nutrition during pregnancy and during the first 8-10 weeks of life can permanently affect the genetic make-up of a beef calf, leading to a change in organ development and future performance. This underscores the importance of proper nutrition from the outset. As calves grow, their dietary requirements evolve, necessitating adjustments to feed composition to optimize growth rates and health outcomes. Supplementing starter feed to beef calves in cow-calf operations (even in open pasture) it’s not so typical, but can highly influence rumen development. Having a proper rumen structure can boost performance of beef cattle in the following stages of growth.

Signs of poor calf nutrition can manifest in various ways:

• Reduced growth rates: inadequate nutrition often results in reduced growth rates. Calves may not meet expected weight gain milestones, which can have long-term effects on their development and productivity.
• Weakness and reduced vigor: calves suffering from poor nutrition may appear lethargic and have less energy to stand or suckle, which is particularly evident in newborn beef calves with inadequate colostrum intake.
• Immune system compromise: nutritional deficiencies of beef calf diets can compromise the immune system, making beef calves more susceptible to infections and diseases, which can further impair their growth and health.
• Digestive problems: poor colostrum management in beef calves and poor nutrition can lead to digestive disturbances, such as diarrhea or bloat, which can impede nutrient absorption and lead to further health complications.
• Poor coat condition: a calf's coat condition can also be an indicator of its nutritional status. A dull, rough, or patchy coat may suggest a deficiency in essential nutrients.
• Developmental delays: nutritional deficiencies can cause developmental delays, affecting bone and organ development, which may result in long-term health issues of beef calves.
• Behavioral changes: behavioral changes, such as decreased suckling or social interaction, can be indicative of poor nutrition and should be monitored closely.

Weaning of calves in cow-calf operations is a significant milestone in a beef calf's development, marking the transition from milk to solid food. The method and timing of weaning of beef calves can profoundly impact the calf's stress levels, health, and subsequent growth performance. Research indicates that low-stress weaning methods for beef calves, such as fence-line weaning or the use of anti-suckling devices, can result in better weight gain and lower stress indicators compared to abrupt weaning practices. The goal is to minimize the stress associated with weaning of beef calves, to maintain a trajectory of healthy growth and development.

Growing the perfect beef calf

In conclusion, the growth performance of cow-calf beef cattle is contingent upon a multitude of factors, with colostrum intake, nutrition, and weaning practices playing pivotal roles. By ensuring that calves receive high-quality colostrum, balanced nutrition, and are weaned using low-stress methods, producers can set the stage for optimal growth performance and the long-term success of their beef operations.