Getting your cow's nutrition right is key to successful breeding. Here's what your cow needs to be ready for AI success in Texas.

The Foundation: Daily Essentials

First, know your cow:

  • Dairy cows, like Jerseys or Holsteins, need more feed to maintain their condition, especially during active lactation.
  • Beef cows, like Angus or Hereford, usually stay in good shape on hay/pasture.

Your cow needs:

  1. Good quality hay or pasture
  2. Clean, fresh water
  3. Complete mineral supplement
  4. Grain (usually for dairy cows)

Hay and Pasture

  • Keep good quality hay available at all times
  • Coastal Bermuda is common and works well
  • Hay should smell fresh and sweet, not moldy or musty
  • If using pasture:
    • Don't overgraze - grass should be at least 3-4 inches tall
    • Watch for weeds that can affect breeding
    • Be ready to supplement with hay when needed
    • Consider rotation to maintain grass quality

Grain

For Dairy Cows:

  • Usually need grain to maintain condition
  • Get a feed labeled for dairy cattle
  • Feed 2-3 pounds daily to start
  • Feed at the same time each day
  • Feed in a trough or pan, not on the ground

For Beef Cows:

  • Usually maintain well on just hay and pasture
  • Only need grain if:
    • You can see their ribs
    • Their hip bones stick out sharply
    • They look thin despite having plenty of hay
    • Their coat looks dull and rough

Water

  • Keep it clean and fresh
  • One cow drinks 15-30 gallons daily, more in hot weather
  • Clean troughs regularly
  • Ensure easy access year-round

Minerals

A good mineral supplement should contain:

  • Salt (sodium and chloride)
  • Calcium and phosphorus
  • Copper, zinc, and selenium
  • Magnesium
  • Iodine

Choose your mineral delivery method:

  • Mineral blocks: Long-lasting, weather-resistant
  • Mineral tubs/buckets: Convenient, protected from weather
  • Loose minerals: Higher intake, needs covered feeder

Place minerals near water and check consumption regularly.

Body Condition: Your Key to Success

Getting body condition right is crucial for breeding. Here's what to watch for:

  • You should be able to feel your cow's ribs but not see them
  • If ribs are visible: Add hay first for beef cows, grain for dairy cows
  • If ribs can't be felt: Cut back on grain (dairy) or limit grazing time (beef)
  • Best breeding results come from cows in good condition

Seasonal Adjustments

Summer

  • Clean water troughs often to prevent algae
  • Feed during cooler hours if appetite drops
  • Add electrolytes during extreme heat
  • Keep mineral sources clean and dry

Winter

  • Increase hay when it's cold
  • Add grain if hay quality is poor (especially for dairy)
  • Check water daily for ice
  • Keep minerals close to hay and water

Set Your Cow Up for Success

Focus on these basics every day:

  • Good hay
  • Fresh water
  • Complete minerals
  • Grain for dairy cows
  • Watch body condition

Good nutrition is the foundation for successful breeding. When your cow is well-fed and in good condition, you'll get better conception rates and healthier calves. A properly fed cow will show stronger heats and have better chances of becoming pregnant on the first AI attempt.