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.

If a cow does not get bred, she does not have a calf. That fact alone makes reproduction the number one driver of profitability in a cow-calf operation. But the conversation should not stop there.

As temperatures drop and winter sets in, beef cattle face increased stress due to cold weather, fluctuating feed intake and higher energy demands for thermoregulation. These stressors can suppress the immune system, making cattle more susceptible to respiratory diseases, digestive issues and other illnesses.