Getting forage analysed before the winter is essential to ensure cows and ewes are being fed appropriately in the run up to calving and lambing. Most feed companies will offer this service but you can now also send samples to a lab for nutritional and mineral analysis through us. Silage should be left for at least 6 weeks but preferably 12 weeks before submitting.
Ensuring animals have enough energy, protein and minerals in their diet in the run up to calving and lambing is essential for good colostrum production, easier births, calf/lamb health, ensuring good body condition so animals can milk efficiently and get pregnant again…the list goes on! Understanding whether your forage is up to the job and if additional feed is required to meet their needs is important every year but especially this year when forage may be of lower quality and in shorter supply.
Remember, suckler cows require magnesium and other trace elements in the run up to calving that cannot be provided by forage alone so providing dry cow minerals in the diet or by providing lick buckets is also key.
If you would like to discuss forage analysis or winter feeding, then please get in touch.
