Preconditioning Calves – Setting a Foundation
Nowadays, feedlot and grass calf buyers are looking for calves that are ready to finish – no extra work needed. More upfront work leads to less stress when the calf is weaned and sold – and a good premium in your pocket. Preconditioning calves sets a solid foundation to achieve these goals.
Setting up a strong preconditioning plan is a foolproof way to help your calves bring top dollar at your local auction.
Getting started
Let’s begin with genetics. Genetics play a role in the weight and overall gain of the animal – choose a bull that works best for your herd.
Secondly, focus on health – prepare the calf’s immune system for whatever it may encounter. Start with a proper vaccination protocol and keep track of what, when, and how it was administered.
We start preconditioning our calves within a day or two of birth with a Multi-Mineral shot and an ear tag. Within a couple of months, we follow up with a series of vaccinations outlined in our preconditioning program. Our program includes baseline vaccinations (BVD, etc.) and region-specific vaccinations (pink eye, blackleg, etc.). At weaning, the calves receive their final round of shots, banding (for bull calves), and weight recording. This is the most critical time for the calf; monitoring for stress or infection is essential.
Continuing with your preconditioning calves
Nutrition plays a significant factor in your profitability. Our preconditioned calves are placed on creep feed as early as two months. This not only benefits the calf but also reduces stress on the dam, promoting better gains during weaning and providing a solid foundation for the calf.
Maintaining accurate records to support your program is valuable for both you and your buyers. Each vaccination, along with dates, weaning information, and weights, is recorded. I use CattleMax to manage this data and provide it at delivery or sale. I’ve found it to be an easy way to record, track, and share this crucial information.
What’s your preconditioning program?
