Genetic selection and nutritional management of cattle are important factors that underpin the efficiency of the breeding herd.
Key to improving performance, turn-off rates and business profitability include:
- managing the condition score of the herd heifers and breeders
- improving heifer fertility
- weaning percentage and conception rates
- managing bulls to optimise their performance.
The ability to appraise cattle is useful when selecting breeding stock, assessing if animals will meet market specifications and aid in assessing the potential cattle growth or maturity pattern. In the day-to-day management of cattle, visual appraisal is useful to assess their nutritional status.
The following factsheets can assist producers in the management and selection of cattle: