Feeding cattle: learn the basics
When rounding off cattle for slaughter, you can either grow and mix feed on the farm or buy ready-mixed feed. If you have only a few animals, buying a mixed ration may be cheaper and more practical.
Why can’t that cow stand up?
A number of diseases and conditions can result in cattle and other ruminants being unable to stand up.
Using ‘cow power’ to make your dairy farm self-sufficient
Manure can be used to produce biogas, electricity and fertiliser. In the process, you will recycle nutrients and increase profits while reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Understanding the basics of livestock farming
Many novice farmers make the mistake of not starting off with the best possible animals in terms of genetics and environmental suitability, says Shane Brody.
Seasoned farmer’s tips on keeping livestock in shape
Herd health should focus on prevention rather than cure. Chris Nel spoke to Piet Wolmarans about his practical, down-to-earth animal health management programme based on solid scientific principles and four decades of hard-won practical experience.
Never compromise on shearing shed hygiene
Jan Louis Venter, production advisor for the National Wool Growers’ Association, discusses how farmers can prevent wool and mohair clip contamination.
Dealing with downer cows
With good preparation, this phenomenon can be prevented in communal areas, says Prof Cheryl McCrindle.
Better heifers, bigger profits
Heifers form the future of any beef cattle breeding concern, and should therefore be selected with care, says animal scientist, Danie Bosman. He spoke to Annelie Coleman about how to go about this.
Beef cattle conformation basics
When performing a visual evaluation of the animal, note the following features in particular: frame size, muscle and body structure, and breed character.
Join the Merino Sheep & Wool Experts Society
South Africa’s sheep and wool industry needs experts to maintain the current high standard of sheep classing.
The Santa Gertrudis: an amazing all-rounder
The Santa Gertrudis is a hardy, medium-framed, short-haired animal, and well adapted to a variety of climatic conditions.
How to effectively wean beef cattle calves
The methods and time of weaning play a vital role in beef production by influencing the weaning weight of calves, as well as the condition of the cows.
Supplements: to feed or not to feed?
Given the high cost of supplements, is it worth feeding lambs on veld? A recent study provides some answers, says Roelof Bezuidenhout.
Hoof management guidelines
Although an animal with hoof problems may be able to function normally, malformed hooves can have an impact on production and performance. Annelie Coleman spoke to cattle farrier and hoof specialist, Johan Combrink, about problems encountered and how to deal with these.
Good vaccination practices
According to the Ruminant Veterinary Association of South Africa, vaccination is crucial in preventing illness in animals.
How to catch a stock thief
Every animal is unique, and stock handling can leave distinct marks on individual animals. These two facts can be used by law enforcement officers to prosecute stock thieves effectively. Gerhard Uys spoke to expert witness Mort Mortassagne.
Beef cattle farming: get the infrastructure right
Ensure that you have the right facilities: a crush pen, a neck clamp and a squeeze chute.
Tips on selecting heifers
Correct selection is crucial for a high reproduction rate, high weaning weight and low calf mortality in a beef cattle herd, says the ARC’s Leslie Bergh.
Feeding dairy cows roughage
Before putting together a feeding schedule, confirm the properties of the available feed.
