If they look good, they will sell good (well)!

Unfortunately, the nutrition and body condition of calves cannot be adjusted shortly before weaning to expect instant results. There are aspects of nutrition and body condition that are important and can play a role in the expected selling price of calves. That is why it is of the utmost importance that the nutrition of calves should receive early attention in order for them to be in ideal condition by weaning time. Even if calves are finished on-farm, nutrition and body condition of the weaned calves will have the same influence on success as for the feedlots. 

Most feedlots are looking for a large-framed calf in good condition (not fat), which can adapt well in the feedlot and has the potential to put on a lot of meat (good ADG over an extended feeding period). This means that calves must grow at a steady rate from birth to develop a good frame. Calves of late maturing breeds are mostly preferred by feedlots, because of their ability to be fed longer/heavier before they reach slaughter body condition. However, it is not always in the best interest of farmers to farm with these type of breeds - a discussion for another day!

If calves are kept in a kraal after weaning, ensure that good quality hay and fresh water is available. Calves that are used to eating out of feed/lick troughs, will also adapt more quickly to the feedlot. Although it is not always practical, by accustoming calves to feedlot conditions (conditioning) just after weaning, better prices can be negotiated.

The articles in the "management" series only aim to bring home the most important aspects of the production stage under discussion. If more in-depth information about a specific aspect is to be obtained, feel free to check whether there are other articles available under "related" articles.

6009230315DVN