GETTING A CALF: THE NUTRITION/REPRODUCTION INTERACTION

Norman,* R.1 , Rhinehart, J.2

1.Extension Agent II, University of Tennessee Extension, Rutherford County, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
2.Extension Specialist, University of Tennessee Extension, Middle Tennessee Research and Education Center, Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174

The impact of cow nutrition on calf survival and ultimate performance is well documented. The term fetal programming describes the impact maternal stresses may have on calves and their ultimate performance. Cow nutrition, during both early and late gestation, is one of the most powerful maternal influences with both energy and protein impacting calf survivability and performance. Insufficient cow energy intake may result in small, weak calves lacking vigor to stand and nurse, higher death rates in newborns, calves more prone to scours and respiratory problems, and reduced performance. Protein is the second most limiting nutrient class; excess protein may lead to early embryonic loss and protein deficiencies may contribute to lower calf weaning weights. Insufficient protein intake of the dam during mid-gestation resulted in reduced calf performance in gains, carcass weights, and carcass traits. During late gestation, reduced protein intake resulted in a negative fetal programming effect on daughter fertility. Dry cow nutrition, in the last trimester of pregnancy, is often neglected. However, historical data and new research demonstrate that profitability can be negatively impacted by poor nutrition at that time.