You hear more about mature cow size and growth potential of calves, now that profit ebbs and flows with the cycle. We’ve written about mature size, but not much about how to use the relevant tools to change it. So now, let’s examine the strategies and tools available, and the unintended consequences of ignoring them.

Weaned calves in the preconditioning or backgrounding pen should have come in with a plan. For those happy with weanling prices, calves in the pen may be limited to replacement heifer prospects. Others may see this as a year to retain ownership through finishing, or you’re just waiting to sell calves in a new year. No matter why you’re feeding those calves now, you face significant challenges from respiratory disease (BRD). Even fall-born, nursing calves are at risk with the fluctuating temperatures and frequent changes in weather.