↗️ Feeding Frenzy?

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NEWS

↗️ Feeding Frenzy?

↗️ Feeding Frenzy? - The February Cattle on Feed report reveals, as of February 1, feedlot inventory stood at 11.8 million head, slightly above last year. Placements were 92.5% of last year's, with marketings even with a year ago. The 2023 final feedlot numbers indicate a total feedlot capacity increase to 17.1 million head from 16.5 million head in 2000. Over the past 25 years, feedlot capacity as a percentage of total cattle inventories has risen to a record 19.6%, but January 1 feeder supplies outside of feedlots decreased by 4.2% year over year, leading to a record-high feedlot inventory representing 59.6% of feeder supplies. This could cause a decrease in feedlot inventories in the coming months due to insufficient numbers to maintain capacity.

⧚⧛ Future of Fencing - Virtual fencing offers a promising solution for pasture management, utilizing GPS collars to guide cattle and reduce reliance on physical infrastructure. Research at Oklahoma State University, led by Professor Ryan Reuter, aims to refine this technology for commercial use. Initial trials have shown positive results, with reduced grazing time in restricted areas. Longer-term studies focus on watershed quality and cattle stress levels. While virtual fencing shows potential, challenges remain in cost-effectiveness and technological refinement. Follow-up research and decision-making tools are being developed to assist producers in implementing virtual fencing effectively.

🥩 Carcass Primal Premiums Review - Last week's cattle harvest was smaller due to the President's Day holiday, with packers reducing hours to regain leverage. Fed cattle prices rose on strong contract prices and increasing boxed beef values. Carcass weights increased slightly, while January placements were lower than expected due to severe weather. Boxed beef prices saw strong increases due to restricted supply, with firm prices for chuck and round cuts.

💪 Unwanted Muscle - White muscle disease (WMD) is a nutritional disorder resulting from selenium or vitamin E deficiency, leading to muscle breakdown. It affects calves and adult cattle, often manifesting after increased exercise on pasture. Symptoms include difficulty rising and stiff gaits due to muscle involvement, with potentially fatal effects on the heart. Diagnosis involves observing discolored muscles and elevated creatine phosphokinase levels in affected animals. Selenium and vitamin E supplementation via diet or injection is crucial, especially in selenium-deficient regions like Michigan. Collaborate with your vet and nutritionist for assessment and management strategies.

📈 Calf Market Update - Spring has seen a surge in calf prices across U.S. auction markets, with significant increases compared to last year. Despite tighter cattle supplies, uncertainty looms regarding potential weather shifts. However, forecasts anticipate continued price increases, driven by strong demand.

RANCHING KNOW-HOW

Finding a Better Way to Vaccinate Young Beef Calves

Through years of research, scientists challenged conventional beliefs and paved the way for an innovative intranasal BRD vaccine. Rigorous USDA trials ensured its effectiveness and safety, while duration of immunity trials provided practical insights for farmers. This journey showcases the collaborative efforts between researchers and regulators, aiming to improve herd health and welfare, shares Dr. Scott Nordstrom of Merck. 

Hoof Care

K-State veterinarians discuss the importance of hoof trimming on a recent episode of the Beef Cattle Institute's Cattle Chat, highlighting normal wear and age-related issues. Factors like diet, genetics, and environment can affect hoof health, with high-grain diets leading to acidosis and genetic predispositions requiring regular trimming, as well as environmental factors like mud and sharp objects. Timely veterinary examination and treatment are crucial for addressing these problems.

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Ranching.com 2024-03-04