Key facts
- Calves require strict management even after being turned out to grass.
- Meal feeding should be maintained for at least five to six weeks post-turnout.
- Calves should be fed 1.5-2kg of pellets per head per day.
- Regular weighing of calves every couple of weeks is recommended to track growth targets.
- Heifer calves should reach 30% of mature body weight by six months, 60% at 15 months, and 90% by 24 months.
- Monitoring weight gain helps prevent poor fertility in replacement heifers.
Managing young cattle effectively as they transition from indoor feeding to grazing is crucial for their long-term health and productivity. This period requires careful attention to diet, health monitoring, and growth tracking to ensure they meet key developmental milestones necessary for future breeding success.