Cows graze out square areas better. Sward damage, if it occurs, will then be restricted to a small area. Improving Herd Fertility Avoid sudden changes in diet during the service period and the three to four weeks prior to it. If changes are unavoidable, ensure that any new feeds are introduced gradually to minimise stress. Likewise, try to carry out routine animal treatments such as foot trimming well in advance of service time.
Stress can lead to poorer heats and subsequent delays in conception.
Each days delay is estimated to cost between 1.50 and 4.00 per cow. To help in heat detection, clip out any freeze branding and replace any missing or illegible tags to give better animal identification. Provide adequate lightning to minimise dark and hidden areas in the cattle house. To encourage cows to show signs of heat keep passage surfaces clean, even and non slippy. PD Autumn Calvers Autumn calvers should now be diagnosed for pregnancy.