Feeding Strategies for Beef Cattle During Winter

As winter approaches, beef producers face several challenges that can significantly impact the productivity and profitability of their herds. Cold temperatures, freezing precipitation, and high winds are just a few of the stressors that cattle must endure during this season. To mitigate the effects of winter conditions, it is crucial for producers to prepare the wintering areas and ensure that their cattle receive adequate nutrition, hydration, and safe accommodations.

Preparing Wintering Areas

The management of cattle during the winter months begins with a thorough assessment of the areas where cattle will be housed, such as lots, paddocks, traps, and pastures. Producers should take the time to grade these areas, creating a flat and even surface to prevent injuries related to rough terrain. The ground should be smoothed using a tractor blade or a homemade drag, eliminating ruts, deep tracks, and uneven surfaces that can cause sprains, hoof injuries, or lameness.

In addition to grading, it is essential to remove foreign objects such as wire, broken glass, tree limbs, and jagged rocks from the wintering areas. As cattle are concentrated in these spaces, the risk of injury increases. Removing these hazards before the ground freezes or snow covers them will help prevent accidents and injuries among the herd.

Producers should also be mindful of any farm or ranch equipment that may be left in pastures or paddocks during the summer months. As winter approaches and vegetation dies back, this equipment can become hidden, posing a risk of injury when cattle are confined to these areas. Therefore, it is advisable to relocate any machinery or equipment to ensure that it does not become a danger to the cattle during the winter.

Footing and Access to Feed and Water

Maintaining proper footing around feed troughs and waterers is crucial for preventing accidents and injuries. Mud and other obstacles can hinder cattle movement and discourage them from accessing feed and water, which can adversely affect their performance. Waterers should be in working order before winter, and producers should conduct daily checks throughout the winter months to ensure that leaks and overflows are fixed promptly. Accumulated ice from leaks can create hazardous conditions, increasing the risk of slips and falls among the cattle.

To improve conditions around feed troughs and waterers, areas should be leveled and graveled to provide stable footing and prevent cattle from becoming mired in mud. This attention to detail in managing feeding and watering areas not only supports cattle welfare but also promotes better performance.

Importance of Water for Cattle

Water is the most critical nutrient for beef cattle, necessary for numerous bodily functions, including temperature regulation, digestion, and nutrient absorption. Cattle can lose a significant amount of fat and protein and still survive; however, a loss of more than 10% of body water can be fatal.

Cattle’s water requirements vary based on several factors, including age, weight, diet, environmental temperature, and activity level. During cold weather, while it may be assumed that cattle will consume less water, it is essential to provide a constant and plentiful supply of clean, high-quality water. For every pound of dry matter consumed, cattle typically need about seven pounds of water. Therefore, ensuring that cattle have access to adequate water during the winter months is vital for maintaining their health and performance.

Nutritional Needs During Winter

As temperatures drop, cattle require more energy to maintain their body condition. This increased energy demand necessitates careful attention to their dietary needs. For many beef producers, feed costs represent a significant portion of annual operating expenses often exceeding 50% and reaching up to 75% of total annual feed costs during the winter months.

To optimize feeding strategies, producers can implement several best practices:

1. Sort Cattle into Feeding Groups: Grouping cattle by similar nutritional needs and management requirements can enhance feeding efficiency. Young and lactating cows, for instance, should be separated from the main herd to ensure they receive adequate energy tailored to their specific needs. This approach minimizes competition at feeding areas and helps prevent over- or underfeeding.
2. Implement Effective Feeding Methods: Research has shown that certain feeding methods can significantly reduce feed waste. Traditional feeding methods, such as feeding hay without a feeder, can result in up to 45% waste. In contrast, using appropriate feeders, such as open rings or sheeted cones, can reduce hay waste to as low as 20%. By minimizing waste, producers can reduce overall feed costs and ensure that more nutrients are available to the cattle.
3. Monitor Body Condition and Adjust Diets Accordingly: Regularly assessing the body condition of the herd allows producers to adjust diets as needed. Cattle that are too thin may require a higher-energy diet, while those in good condition may need less. This tailored approach ensures that all cattle receive the appropriate nutrition to support their health and productivity.

Reducing Feed Waste

In addition to sorting cattle and adjusting their diets, producers should also focus on feeding methods that minimize waste. Effective feeding strategies not only conserve resources but also improve animal health and performance. Studies have shown that cattle should be fed in ways that restrict them from walking, lying, or defecating on hay, as these behaviors lead to significant feed loss.

Several feeding systems have been developed to minimize waste, including:

• Cone Feeders: These feeders have a design that limits access to hay, preventing cattle from trampling it and reducing waste by up to 50%.
• Bale Feeders: Using feeders that hold round bales can help contain the hay, allowing cattle to eat without creating excessive waste.

These methods have been shown to decrease the amount of feed required per cow, making them a cost-effective option for winter feeding.

Managing Housing Conditions

In addition to feeding and watering strategies, the housing conditions of cattle during winter must be carefully managed. Providing safe, comfortable accommodations will help reduce stress and improve overall herd health.

Producers should consider:

• Bedding: Adequate bedding can help insulate cattle from the cold ground, improving their comfort and reducing the risk of hypothermia or frostbite.
• Space: Ensuring that cattle have enough space to move freely is important for preventing stress and injuries. Overcrowding can lead to competition for resources and increased aggression.
• Ventilation: Proper ventilation in barns or shelters is necessary to prevent moisture buildup and ensure good air quality, which helps reduce the risk of respiratory issues.

Conclusion

Winter management is crucial for beef producers looking to maintain the productivity and profitability of their herds. By taking proactive steps to prepare wintering areas, ensure adequate access to water and feed, sort cattle into appropriate feeding groups, and reduce waste, producers can create a safe and effective winter feeding strategy.

Ultimately, the way cattle are managed during the winter months will significantly impact their health, productivity, and the overall success of the beef operation. By prioritizing the needs of the herd and implementing best practices, producers can navigate the challenges of winter with confidence and maintain a profitable operation throughout the season.