Improving suckler herd management through nutrition and hygiene around calving time to enhance productivity and reduce antibiotic use

The project involves four farmers from Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire which all have herds of between 30 and 45 suckler cows. The project will run from November 2020 to June 2022. They aim to improve the management and nutrition of their suckler herds around calving to improve animal health and productivity, while reducing the use of antibiotics. They will work towards this by developing and implementing management plans which will include:

  • Ration formulation, based on metabolic profiles and feed/ forage analysis
  • Strategies to increase colostrum quality and absorption
  • Strategies for preventative management of diseases, including cleaning and hygiene protocols, based on the results of bedding analysis, faecal sampling and post-mortem results
  • Framework for decision making on antibiotic treatments

The impact of these approach on animal health and productivity will be assessed over the two years by measuring key performance indicators (KPIs) relating to growth and development, calf mortality and the incidence of key diseases. Any reductions in antibiotic usage will be measured against RUMA 2020 targets and monitored using the AHDB Electronic Medicine Hub for beef and sheep. 

Project details

Funding amount:
£39,508
Funding source:
EIP
Area:
Ceredigion
Completion:

Contact:

Name:
Tony Little
Email project contact

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