It is a super quick turnaround for these girls to maintain a 12-month calving pattern, so they must be set up for success.  

Feeding is a huge factor, but with calves at foot and a cold, wet spring, we have few options. Just keep in mind that they are more likely to conceive if they are in good condition and are consuming enough for lactation and maintenance (or above). If you can feed one group better, choose your first calving heifers as they will likely need the biggest boost. 

Trace elements are super important, and hopefully you have addressed this with enough selenium pre-calving. Just remember that prills are water soluble, and with so much rain this season they are not likely to remain in the soil as well as in drier years.  The long-acting selenium injection can be a great option (Selovin™ LA) for consistent supply.   

Heifers to be mated for the first time are easier to supplement and vaccinate. Consider trace elements - especially selenium and copper. Copper boluses are the best for a long-acting option, but there are some different injectable options as well. Testing is relatively quick and easy - so a good option for ensuring a sound trace element program will support optimal production. Get it done early, as we don’t want to supplement copper closer than four weeks pre-mating. 

BVD needs to be considered on every farm. Bulls must be vaccinated every year. Full vaccination of cows requires a booster vaccine each year as well. Heifers that are naive to BVD can be your most ‘at risk’ group. You can vaccinate these girls before mating if you get started soon, they ideally need two shots before the bull goes out, but you can organise the program by chatting to your vet.  

We have some farmers using pre-mating injections to encourage more condensed calving. If you are interested in finding out about this, or planning BVD and trace element testing/supplements, then give us a call.

By Donna Hamilton BVSc - VetSouth Production Animal veterinarian