As you observe your cows grazing the familiar pasture, you play a crucial role in their well-being. The grass still retains some green, there’s forage left to nibble on, and things seem okay. However, the calves are bawling more than usual, a couple of cows are looking rough, and you’re left pondering… is it time to start supplementing?
August is a month of rapid change in pasture conditions. What may seem like sufficient forage on the surface could be lacking in the essential nutrients your herd needs. Delaying the introduction of protein tubs, cubes, or hay could potentially set your cattle—and your profits—back as you head into fall.
In this post, we’re empowering you with the knowledge to interpret your pastures and your cattle, enabling you to make informed decisions without guesswork. We’ll delve into forage quality, cattle signals, and the right time to introduce additional feed—without straining your budget.
Introducing protein tubs into your pasture is a convenient way to provide additional nutrition. Once it’s in place, you don’t need to check it daily, which is particularly beneficial for those with other commitments, such as a job in town, who can’t be on the ranch daily.
