PICA is often a noticeable issue on farm during this time of year, which can have negative effects on the breeding season.

Pica is often defined as a cows’ desire to eat things that do not have any nutritional value. Currently, as we move into the breeding season, concerns are being raised around cows/breeding heifers licking and chewing foreign objects such as stones, plastic, and clay etc. Typically associated with drought conditions and poor P index soils, a cold/dry spell in April can exacerbate the issue.

While there is little research on Pica, it is generally thought there are three main causes: a lack of phosphorus, sodium, or the incidence of rumen acidosis/lack of fibre in the diet. A sodium deficiency tends to occur in grazed grass due to an oversupply of potash, while a phosphorus deficiency is usually caused by a low index of phosphorus in the soil or in rapid/poor grass growth rates. Rumen acidosis is far more prominent in grass-based systems than we think; due to the emphasis on the production of high D-value grass with low fibre levels.

It is important to be vigilant for such behaviours as they pose an additional risk, especially in out farm situations. Ensure toxic plants and foreign inedible objects such as nails, wires and discarded batteries are not within reach and/or fence off any high-risk areas.  

Addressing phosphorus and sodium deficiencies

To address the phosphorus and sodium deficiencies, we recommend supplying salt licks to your cows that contain a high level of phosphorus. Here at Agritech, we supply a Mineral Salt Lick containing 10% Phosphorus, which is ideal for this purpose. This will address all three causes of Pica, allowing the cow to produce extra saliva, and in turn, counteract rumen acidosis at some level.

Having a target to turn cows into covers of 1,400 kg DM/ha will significantly decrease the risk of ruminal acidosis, often coupled with a long fibre offering at the feed barrier (baled silage, high-quality hay/straw).

Need help or advice?

For further information, please contact your local Agritech Sales Advisor.

As we approach calving 2021 the focus should be on final preparations that will result in a spring free from any upsets, nutritional issues or metabolic diseases during an already busy time on farm.

Several key factors will correlate directly to the success of calving 2021, including:

• A planned and well executed dry cow mineral programme
• Calving down the cow in the correct body condition score
• Excellent husbandry in the weeks pre- and post-calving
• Careful transition diet planning

It is always worth remembering at this time in the year, that key decisions made over the next number of weeks will have a direct e­ffect on the performance of the herd, especially herd fertility – submission and conception rates, ultimately a­ffecting the longevity of the cow within the herd.

Negative Energy Balance

In the weeks post-calving, cows will produce more milk than their feed intake can provide for, resulting in Body Condition Score (BCS) loss due to Negative Energy Balance. Research has shown NEB will firstly, reduce milk protein and if prolonged, have detrimental consequences on the breeding season.

The milking cow should receive an adequate diet to optimise milk solids production and keep body weight loss to less than 0.5 BCS between calving and breeding. Cows that lose < 0.5 BCS over this time (approx. 25 kg) typically ovulate 15 days earlier than those cows that lose 1 BCS during this period.

Dry matter intake typically increases by 0.75 – 1.0 kg/week for the first 8 weeks of lactation, therefore being 8 weeks post-calving before maximum intake is reached – highlighting the need for an energy-dense transition diet.

Every farm scenario is different, and tailored advice should be given where issues arise. However, early preparation and planning is vital to avoid added stresses on farm

On farm support during COVID-19

In order to keep our customers and staff as safe as possible, our sales team and distributors we will be minimising the number of on farm consultations. We are however, as always, available for FREE delivery direct to farm and over the phone consultations. Contact your local Agritech sales rep/distributor to place your order or click here.  

The freshly calved cow is genetically programmed to produce high levels of milk, however, to ensure maximum performance, it is essential to implement a feeding and management strategy.

The first number of weeks before, and after calving, are the most critical periods in the production cycle of the modern dairy cow. The consequences of failing to feed freshly calved cows adequately during this period can be significant and can lead to costs such as lower production, slower returns to heat cyclicity, and subsequent poorer fertility. Lower peak yields will also mean a lower milk performance for the rest of the lactation.

To keep your freshly calved cows healthy and productive during their lactation, follow our step-by-step management guide below:

Key Areas to Monitor:

1. Body Condition Scores (BCS): Are your cows holding their pre-calving BCS? If your cows are losing condition in the weeks post calving, it must be addressed promptly by seeking professional advice.
2. Milk Yield: Are your cows milking to their potential? Lower yields will mean a lower milk performance for the rest of the lactation.
3. Milk Fat to Protein Ratio: The ratio of fat:protein is an excellent indicator of cow health and feed efficiency. The ideal butterfat:protein ratio is circa 1.27:1. Where the ratio goes above 1.5:1, strict attention should be paid to cow health as there is a strong possibility of ketosis in the affected animals. Where the ratio drops below 1.2:1, a possible link to rumen acidosis exists.
4. Dung Consistency: Dung that appears firm indicates that the cow’s diet may be too low in protein and too high in fibre. A loose and thin consistency suggests excess protein/carbohydrates or low fibre, which may possibly lead to acidosis.

Key Tips:

1. Maximise dry matter intake (DMI) through a well-balanced diet formulation and continuous assessment of rations fed to cows.
2. Supplement with adequate concentrates to allow your cows to perform in line with the forage they are currently consuming and not the amount they received in recent years when grass was a contributor to their diet.
3. Ensure that there is a minimum of 600-800 mm feed space per cow, along with clean drinking water and ample drinking points.
4. Introduce concentrates slowly over a five to ten-day period post-calving. Adding concentrates too quickly, in an attempt to provide energy is a recipe for Sub Acute Rumen Acidosis. Introducing a high quality rumen buffer such as Rumicare from Agritech will help counteract rumen and intestinal acidity and has the added benefit of providing much needed calcium, magnesium and sodium for the early lactating dairy cow.
5. Continue to analyse your cow’s BCS on a regular basis. It is vitally important to maintain adequate BCS to ensure that the cow quickly returns to cyclicity in advance of the breeding season.
6. Supplementation of post-calving minerals is a much-neglected area, as many dairy farmers assume there are enough minerals in the purchased concentrate. However, unless there are very high levels being fed, this is rarely the case. The post-calving diet needs to be carefully monitored to ensure that the cow receives adequate levels of macro and trace minerals at this important time. Take a look at our Welmin Mineral Range brochure here, which features a number of products suitable to help you get the most from your freshly calved cow.
7. Introduce grazed grass into the diet as soon as possible.

Our team are available to help you ensure maximum performance from your freshly calved cow. To find out more, contact your local Agritech distributor or click here.

Agritech will host a Winter Animal Health Open Day on Wednesday, October 30th on the farm of Donal Sweeney, Ballygarvan, Co. Cork, T12 F61V.

The open day will take place from 11am – 2pm and will bring together industry-leading experts from a number of different sectors including animal health, fertility and breeding.

Philip Whitley, Area Manager and Breeding Advisor with Eurogene A.I. Services, will provide expert advice on breeding a functional and profitable cow for the future. Topics of discussion will include bull fertility, selection and evaluation.

With over 30 years’ experience, Tom Farrington, MVB MRCVS VetMFHom, will discuss dry cow therapy and his experience of using homeopathic alternatives in the treatment of dairy and beef animals. Tom will also be accompanied by homeopathic dairy farmer and National Coordinator of HAWL Ireland, Pat Aherne, who will be willing to answer any questions that attendees may have.

Annie Galligan, Technical and Sales Support Specialist with Animal Health Monitoring Systems Ltd., will give a detailed insight into the SCR SenseTime Heat Detection and Health Monitoring System, and its increasing role in improving farm productivity and efficiency. Annie will discuss key areas including optimum time for AI’ing, and the monitoring of dairy and suckler herds.

In addition, Agritech’s Area Manager and leading nutritionist, Bil Ryan, will discuss dry cow nutrition and the importance of feeding and managing your cows correctly during this critical transition period. Bil will provide helpful advice on mineral supplementation and its influence on subsequent yields, fertility, and reducing the risk of post calving conditions.

All are welcome to attend this and light refreshments will be served.

For more information, contact Agritech Sales Representative, Joseph O’ Callaghan on 086 260 7445.

Although temperatures are beginning to rise, calves are still at risk of contracting pneumonia. Take a look at some of the common causes as well as our effective solutions below:

Causes

• Variation in high day temperatures and low night temperatures. If greater than 13°C, animals are at a higher risk of pneumonia
• Poor shed ventilation, i.e. leaving doors open in the late evening
• Overstocking sheds. As calves grow, they require more ground and air space

Solutions 

• Treat all symptoms immediately
• Provide shelter, space and keep calves rehydrated at all times
• Boost calf immunity by feeding Vitameg in both milk and feed

Vitameg

Vitameg is a feeding supplement with prebiotic and Omega-3 for young ruminants.

Vitameg’s combination of ingredients when fed to young ruminants will:

• Increase feed intakes.
• Stimulate rumen development.
• Increase daily live weight gain.
• Support calf natural defence mechanism.
• Improve digestibility

View our Vitameg brochure 

To find out more, contact your local distributor 

Key Areas to Monitor:

1. Body Condition Scores (BCS): Are your cows holding their pre-calving BCS? If your cows are losing condition in the weeks post calving, it must be addressed promptly by seeking professional advice.
2. Dung Consistency: Dung that appears firm indicates that the cow’s diet may be too low in protein and too high in fibre. A loose and thin consistency suggests excess protein/carbohydrates or low fibre, which may possibly lead to acidosis.
3. Milk Fat to Protein Ratio: The ratio of fat:protein is an excellent indicator of cow health and feed efficiency. The ideal butterfat:protein ratio is circa 1.27:1. Where the ratio goes above 1.5:1, strict attention should be paid to cow health as there is a strong possibility of Ketosis in the affected animals. Where the ratio drops below 1.2:1, a possible link to Rumen Acidosis exists.

Key Tips:

1. Maximise dry matter intake (DMI) through a well-balanced diet formulation and continuous assessment of rations fed to cows.
2. Ensure that there is a minimum of 600-800 mm feed space per cow, along with ample drinking points.
3. Introduce concentrates slowly over a five to ten day period post calving. Adding concentrates too quickly in an attempt to provide energy is a recipe for Sub Acute Rumen Acidosis. Introducing a high quality rumen buffer such as Rumicare from Agritech will help counteract rumen and intestinal acidity and has the added benefit of providing much needed calcium, magnesium and sodium for the early lactating dairy cow.
4. Continue to analyse you cow’s BCS on a regular basis. It is vitally important to maintain adequate BCS to ensure that the cow quickly returns to cyclicity in advance of the breeding season.
5. Supplementation of post calving minerals is a much neglected area as many dairy farmers assume there are enough minerals in the purchased concentrate. However, unless there are very high levels being fed, this is rarely the case. The post calving diet needs to be carefully monitored to ensure that the cow receives adequate levels of macro and trace minerals at this important time.Take a look at our new 2019 Welmin Mineral Range brochure here, which features a number of products suitable to help you get the most from your freshly calved cow.
6. Introduce grazed grass in to the diet. It is important to align the indoor ration to match up with the grazed grass level being fed in order to optimise cow performance and health.

For further advice, contact your local Agritech distributor. 

As the days get shorter and grass growth comes to a stop, our attention now turns to forage supply for the coming winter months. With unpredictable grass growth and anticipated fodder shortages earlier in the season, many farmers turned to brassica crops such as Kale and Rape to make up the shortfall. As many of these forages are being used for the first time, farmers must be aware of the challenges and understand how to overcome them effectively.

Management

Although forage brassicas provide farmers with a high yielding, quality forage option, there are many management factors to consider when utilising the crop. When it comes to grazing, introduce strip grazing, additional bales in the fields and lie back areas. It is important that brassicas do not make up more than 60% of the animal’s dry matter intake, with the remaining 40% coming from silage, straw or hay. Access to water is also essential.

Animals must be introduced to the crop gradually to avoid bloat. Therefore, it is crucial to begin with 1–2 hours of grazing per day and then increase to full–time access after 10 days.

Diet

A diet of pure brassicas can cause many health issues for livestock, therefore it is essential that they are balanced correctly. Nutritionally, brassicas are 10-11ME and 16-18% protein, which should be adequate for most animals when fed with an alternative forage.

As brassica crops are extremely low in structural fibre, the inclusion of extra fibre sources such as silage, straw and hay should be provided before and throughout the brassica feeding period. This will help rumen microbes adjust to the feed and help to maintain normal rumen function.

Brassicas are low in trace elements, particularly copper, cobalt, iodine and selenium. Kale and Rape in particular are very low in iodine and contain glucosinolates which interfere with the uptake of iodine by the animal. Brassicas are moderate to low in phosphorus and magnesium and are high in calcium.

Mineral Supplementation

Animal health, weight gain and reproduction will all be compromised if adequate minerals and vitamins are not supplemented accordingly. With this in mind, Agritech have developed the Welmin Mineral Supplements Range, a comprehensive range of premium mineral supplements, which will ensure that your animals are adequately supplemented with all the essential minerals and vitamins this winter. The raw materials used by Agritech to manufacture the Welmin range are chosen for their high bio-availability, therefore ensuring we get to correct the imbalances that are occurring on intensive farms.

For any further advice on feeding brassicas and mineral supplementation, contact your local Agritech distributor or find out more by viewing our brand new Welmin Mineral Supplements Brochure.

While we are all aware that animals need to be fed adequately while indoors, it has been found that winter feeding programs rarely go beyond nutrition and water. Even though they are both very important, animals have mineral and vitamin requirements which are essential for milk production, growth reproduction and their overall health.

A growing emphasis on higher grassland production through the use of Nitrogen, Sulphur and Potash is reducing the availability of minerals that animals need. Research shows us that more than two-thirds of Irish pastures are low in Selenium, Iodine and Copper and more than one-third are low in Phosphorous, Magnesium and Zinc; all essential for milk production, weight gain, reproduction and general animal health.

During the housing period, availability of vitamins and mineral are also reduced as they oxidise and break down in animal feed. At this stage, animals are very likely to develop deficiencies as a result of a diet which consists of only stored forages and grain.

With this in mind Agritech have developed the Welmin mineral supplements range, a comprehensive range of premium mineral supplements, which will ensure that your animals are adequately supplemented with all the essential minerals and vitamins.The raw materials used by Agritech to manufacture the Welmin range are chosen for their high bio-availability, therefore ensuring we get to correct the imbalances that are occurring on intensive farms.

So to look after your animals’ health and ensure you achieve maximum production this winter, be sure to feed a quality mineral and vitamin supplement.

For any further advice on minerals and vitamins contact your local Agritech distributor or find out more about Agritech’s Welmin mineral supplements range by clicking here.