After weaning, calves aged 2 to 6 months should continue being fed a high-quality diet for at least two weeks. On the first day, feed approximately 1.8–2 kg of concentrate, then gradually increase the amount to support growth. The diet should contain 16%–20% crude protein, depending on the quality of the forage, and continue until the calf reaches 6 months of age. The longer the calf is on this feeding plan, the better it will develop.
For roughage, special attention must be given to its quality—high in protein, free from mold, and properly chopped with more leaves and less stalks. Calves under 6 months should not be fed fermented roughage, as it can be difficult to digest. Instead, provide clean, fresh, and easily accessible roughage to encourage natural grazing behavior. At this stage, the main purpose of roughage is to stimulate rumen development. Yak have a lower digestibility of dry matter from roughage compared to cereals, so the quality of the roughage becomes even more critical. A clean, well-ventilated barn with a dry bed is essential for the comfort and health of the calves.
For calves over 6 months, the balance between roughage and concentrates becomes more important. As forage matures, its protein, TDN, calcium, and phosphorus content decreases while fiber increases, reducing its nutritional value. Before 8 to 10 months, the rumen is still developing, so relying solely on roughage isn’t enough. From 6 to 9 months, at least half of the dry matter in the diet should come from hay, and the concentrate should be carefully balanced to match the nutrients from the forage. Analysis of the roughage helps ensure proper nutrient balance.
At 10–12 months, cattle can begin consuming silage, with an average of 5 kg of silage per kilogram of body weight daily. However, free-choice corn silage may lead to fat accumulation, so it’s best to limit intake to what can be digested within 10–12 hours. To prevent protein deficiency, add 1.4–2.3 kg of concentrate containing 20% crude protein daily. Trace minerals and vitamins should also be included in the feed. Always ensure access to clean drinking water.
Growth is influenced by five key factors: nutrition, management, housing, health, and genetics. All must be addressed for optimal performance.
For breeding management of heifers aged 12–24 months, maintaining steady weight gain 30 days before and after mating is crucial for reproductive success. Sexual maturity and breeding readiness are based on physical condition rather than age. If managed properly, heifers can calve at 24 months.
To achieve conception by 15 months, initial breeding should start at 12 months, with continued mating for 90 days. This allows up to 4.5 estrus cycles, offering multiple breeding chances. Accurate estrus tracking is vital for predicting breeding dates and identifying issues early. Proper feeding and care from breeding to calving are essential to support both the mother and the calf’s development while minimizing fat deposition in the udder and birth canal.
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