A polycystic ovary (left) compared with a normal ovary (right) from a cow.

Good early-lactation nutrition cuts risk of cystic ovaries

Dairy Corner: A drop in proper metabolic function will pose reproductive challenges in cows

Most producers usually wait until estrus appears in a dairy cow at 60-70 days postpartum, then place an emphasis on getting her pregnant by 90 days. This practice maintains a 13-month calving interval. Unfortunately, the onslaught of cystic ovaries in 30 per cent of all breeding cows makes it a challenge. Yet, there is hope […] Read more








File photo of cattle on pasture.(MikeEntertainment/iStock.Getty Images)

Klassen: Feeder cattle market takes defensive tone

It’s that time of year when available supplies start to decline. At the same time, demand is limited. Most backgrounding operators have sufficient numbers and demand for grassers is waning. Ontario interest was noted in Manitoba and Eastern Saskatchewan, which appeared to sustain prices near last week’s levels.

Ration-balancing tools can help cattle feeders make changes to their rations to include alternative feed types.

Do your homework on alternative feeds

What looks to be another dry year will mean added emphasis on byproduct feeds

Alternative or non-conventional feeds, such as grain screenings, cull potatoes or distillers’ grains, can be an economical means for beef cattle producers to supplement forage and grain inventories while continuing to meet animal nutritional requirements. However, due to variability in supply, nutrient composition and quality of these feed ingredients, there can be pitfalls if not […] Read more



(Photo courtesy Canada Beef Inc.)

Klassen: Feeder cattle experience weather market

For the week ending May 4, Western Canadian feeder cattle prices were quite variable and the market was hard to define. Alberta and certain regions of Saskatchewan received snow, which caused the market to trade $3 to $5 lower. However, in Eastern Saskatchewan and Manitoba, feeder cattle prices were steady to $3 higher.