The performance of feedlot cattle depends heavily on stress management. While stress is an inevitable part of livestock production, minimizing controllable stressors creates resilience against those that cannot be controlled, such as weather. A proactive approach focusing on prevention, realistic expectations, and proper management can greatly enhance outcomes.
Key Strategies for Reducing Stress and Improving Feedlot Outcomes:
- Set Realistic Expectations
- Understand that high-risk groups may experience some losses despite best efforts.
- Use historical performance records to set appropriate goals and calculate breakeven prices.
- Source Cattle Strategically
- Low-risk cattle (single source, vaccinated, short transport) have better outcomes.
- High-risk cattle require exceptional management and realistic expectations.
- Ensure Adequate Bunk Space
- Provide 18 inches of bunk space per head for newly received cattle, with a minimum of 12 inches.
- Avoid overcrowding to reduce competition and stress.
- Provide Sufficient Pen Space
- Maintain at least 40 square feet per animal indoors.
- Inadequate space increases stress and susceptibility to disease.
- Prioritize Nutrition
- Deliver feed at consistent times with uniform quality and composition.
- Monitor bunk usage daily to track intake and identify issues.
- Consult a nutritionist for optimized feeding strategies.
- Focus on Husbandry
- Keep cattle clean and dry, minimizing mud and manure accumulation on their coats.
- Proper bedding enhances comfort and performance.
- Monitor Water Availability and Quality
- Provide at least 1 inch of linear water space per head.
- Invest in additional water resources during peak heat periods.
- Optimize Ventilation
- Ensure barns are well-ventilated to support respiratory health and immune function.
- Avoid over-sealing barns, as fresh air must circulate effectively.
- Implement a Thoughtful Vaccine Protocol
- Vaccines are essential but not a standalone solution.
- Administer at appropriate times to avoid adding unnecessary stress.
- Collaborate with a veterinarian to design a tailored vaccination plan.
- Balance Care with Financial Viability
- Effective cattle care does not guarantee profitability.
- Avoid overpaying for cattle to ensure reasonable margins.
- Set realistic financial expectations and mitigate risks.
By addressing these factors, feedlot managers can reduce stress, improve animal health, and optimize performance, paving the way for long-term success
