With spring calving season coming to a close, breeding season is already rapidly approaching. It’s not too early to start planning inventory, reviewing last year’s records for problem areas, and refreshing yourself and your team on your ranch’s standard operating procedures. In this article, Redd Summit will share some of our best tips on key areas to devote your attention to successfully prepare for a smooth breeding season.
1. Focus on BCS and Nutrition of Cows Before Breeding
Body condition score (BCS) is a significant factor in various stages of the cattle production cycle, and breeding is no exception. Research shows that low BCS at calving can slow a cow's return to their normal estrus cycle, making it difficult to re-breed within 60 days postpartum. Cows that calve at a BCS of 4 or less typically exhibit a postpartum cycle of more than 80 days; the same is true of over-conditioned cows with a BCS of 8-9. Cows with a BCS of 5-6 tend to come into estrus about 55 days postpartum.
2. Review Your Herd Vaccination Plan and Status
Ensure all vaccinations are up to date, as a healthy cow is more likely to conceive and carry a healthy calf to term. Vaccines to pay particular attention to include IBR, BVDV, Lepto, BRSV, Parainfluenza, and vaccinations that protect from clostridial diseases.
3. Have a Breeding Soundness Exam Completed on Your Bulls
When it comes to a bull’s ability to produce offspring, looks aren’t everything. Bull fertility is critical for breeding season success, and according to the Society of Theriogenology, 1 in 5 bulls will fail a breeding soundness exam (BSE). Consult with your veterinarian about completing a BSE on your bull(s), or if applicable, speak with the breeder prior to purchase to find out if one has already been carried out. Read more on bull selection in our Seller’s Guide to Bull Sales!
4. Define Your Breeding Season with Estrus Synchronization
A well-defined 60-day breeding season can result in more calves being born earlier in the calving season, leading to heavier weaning weights and more money in your pocket come sale time. Estrus synchronization can be an extremely useful tool to get your herd bred within a smaller breeding window. Speak with your veterinarian about synchronization protocols that could be a good fit for your operation.
5. Take an Inventory of Your Supplies
Ensure that you have all of the necessary supplies for breeding before the season is underway, especially if your operation is utilizing artificial insemination (A.I.). Take an inventory of your herd as well, and decide which cows will be kept for breeding and which will be culled. This is also a good time to assess records from previous years to determine if you need more “bull power” and identify areas in which you could work to improve your herd’s genetics.
6. Brush up on A.I. Best Practices
The principles of A.I. have remained the same throughout the process's technological advancements. If applicable, refresh yourself and your team on A.I. best practices such as proper semen handling and use of the breeding gun to improve your herd’s breeding success.
Conclusion
Like calving season, breeding season requires careful planning and preparation. By focusing on the tips highlighted above, you can take great first steps in preparing your cows for breeding and set your operation up for continued success. For more information on livestock management, risk management, and agricultural insurance products that protect your profits from volatility, visit the Redd Summit blog, and subscribe to stay updated when new content is published.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.webp)
.svg){kind=small}
