Without hard data, it’s challenging to truly evaluate ration changes with your nutritionist, review trends in rumination data with your veterinarian or plan management adjustments with confidence.

The rumen is a complex and dynamic organ that converts fibrous forages, starch-rich cereal grains and other feed ingredients, including ethanol byproducts, into high-quality microbial protein and energy-dense volatile fatty acids that support maintenance and growth of the animal.

Let’s explore how the rumen develops in the preweaning phase, and it will become clear why a proper grower diet is necessary for optimal growth and long-term productivity in dairy calves.

Starting feedlot cattle correctly is one of the most important parts of the entire feeding program. A feedlot animal is being asked to make a major transition: from pasture, backgrounding or a previous management system into a high-energy, tightly managed environment where rapid weight gain is the goal.

In 2021, Hornstead Dairy took a step toward smarter data-driven care by implementing smaXtec, a health monitoring system initially aimed to improve their reproduction program. What started as a tool for reproduction soon uncovered a hidden culprit.

Rib‑Arrow Dairy uses a fully connected system – vision monitoring, activity collars, cow‑locating tools and automated footbaths – to spot changes early and respond fast.