Performance of limit fed cows and their nursing calves was equal to or better than that of the cows offered free-choice hay with no grain or protein supplementation. The goal is to have all cows be at least a body condition of 5-6 by calving time. Sorting into groups provides the opportunity to deliver higher quality feed or additional concentrate feeds to cows that need to gain condition. Feed savings can be realized for cows that simply need to maintain. Spring calving cows are in a critical stage of production with calving fast approaching.
Thin cows give birth to weak calves, milk poorly and have difficulty rebreeding on time.
For fall calving cows, most should have cycled and be rebred by now. However, cold temperatures and heavy milk production will require high quality feed to prevent weight and condition losses. A creep area with high quality hay and concentrate feed should be made available for fall born calves, otherwise weaning weights are likely to suffer. Proper timing of vaccination is important. Vaccines must be given to the cows at the correct time to get good immunity through the mother's colostrum.