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Klassen: Feeder market scaling fresh heights

Heifer retention expected in U.S. this spring

Compared to last week, western Canadian yearling markets traded $5 to as much as $10 higher. Replacements in the 650- to 800-lb. category were up $6-$12; calves under 650 lbs. were relatively unchanged although volumes were limited. Lightweight calves were hard to come by last week. Weather may have been a factor. Many factors contributed […] Read more

(Photo courtesy Canada Beef Inc.)

Klassen: Feeder market continues the climb

Statistics show tightening supplies in Canada, U.S.

Compared to last week, western Canadian feeder markets yearling markets traded $2-$5 higher. Replacements in the 700- to 800-lb. weight category appeared to jump $5 to as much as $15 in some cases. Calves weighing 500-700 lbs. were unchanged to $4 higher on average after rallying nearly $20 over the past month. There were limited […] Read more


(Photo courtesy Canada Beef Inc.)

Klassen: Calves jump on corn outlook

Softer barley values underpin yearling market

Compared to last week, western Canadian feeder cattle markets traded $5 to as much as $12 above week-ago levels. Alberta packers were buying fed cattle on a dressed basis in the range of $332-$335 delivered, up $5-$8 from last week. Stronger fed cattle prices and softer barley values underpinned the yearling market. Buyers were finicky […] Read more

(Photo courtesy Canada Beef Inc.)

Klassen: Feeder market stabilizes after recent climb

Calf prices in Manitoba show premium over Alberta

Compared to last week, western Canadian yearling markets traded $2-$3 on either side of unchanged. Replacements weighing 650-800 lbs. appeared to traded steady to $4 higher while calves under 650 lbs. were steady to $4 lower. The cost per pound gain is reaching unprecedented levels and fleshier cattle were discounted quite severely in some cases. […] Read more


There is nothing wrong with letting a sleeping calf lie but pay attention in case the calf might be suffering from some ailment and is not just resting. A little extra attention in calving season helps to spot health problems while they still can be corrected.

Miscellaneous health problems in calves

Animal Health: A little extra time spent checking newborn calves might help reduce losses

It has always been my premise that spending a bit more time on specific cases during the calving season may reap benefits for those calves with ailments. I know one must spend their time wisely at calving season, but even just keeping a cow-calf pair in isolation a bit longer may be all that is […] Read more

CME May 2023 feeder cattle (candlesticks) with 20-day moving average and CME March 2023 feeder cattle (brown O/H/L/C). (Barchart)

Klassen: Canadian feeder market rationing demand

Demand from Ontario remains aggressive

Compared to last week, western Canadian yearling prices were up $4-$6 while calf markets traded $6 to as much as $10 above week-ago levels. May feeder cattle futures are trading at a $8 premium to the nearby March contract. The carrying charge in the futures market has encouraged buyers to step forward sooner rather than […] Read more



Photo: Canada Beef

Klassen: Feeder market percolates higher amid finicky buyers

Ontario feedlots bring demand for West's calves

Compared to last week, western Canadian feeder cattle markets traded steady to $4 higher on average. Certain pockets in Manitoba and eastern Saskatchewan had steer calves up $4-$8 from week-ago levels. Alberta values were relatively unchanged from seven days earlier on all weight categories. Steady demand was noted from Ontario feedlots for calves while Alberta […] Read more


Once the calf is in position, begin pulling slowly. This gives the cervix time to fully dilate as buttocks and hips start through. Traction should be applied on one hind leg at a time until its stifle has been drawn over the brim of the cow’s pelvis.

Important tips on birthing backward calves

You need to confirm their actual position before you start pulling

Most calves are born head first, front feet extended, but a few are positioned backward and may not survive unless you are there to help with delivery. The backward calf usually suffocates because his head is still inside the cow when his umbilical cord breaks or pinches off as his midsection comes through the cow’s […] Read more

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Klassen: Feeder market’s upward trend continues

Manitoba, Saskatchewan see limited gains

Compared to last week, western Canadian feeder cattle markets traded $2-$3/cwt higher on average. Southern Alberta appeared to lead Western Canada. Prices in the Lethbridge area were up $8/cwt to as much as $15/cwt from week-ago levels. Major operations have liquidated a significant amount fed cattle and become more current with production. There was a […] Read more