Dairy producers and feedlot managers understand that animal performance is only as strong as the nutrition that supports it. Seasonal shifts bring more than just weather changes—they introduce fluctuations in forage quality, feeding behavior, and metabolic demands that can significantly impact both milk production and rate of gain.
At Van Beek Natural Science, we focus on providing science-backed, natural solutions that help high-performance operations manage these challenges proactively. Here’s how seasonal changes affect feed and nutrition—and how you can get ahead of the curve.
Spring: Gut Transition & Nutrient Oversupply
Spring often marks a transition back to pasture or fresh silage, depending on your location and system. For dairies, this can mean changes in dry matter intake and shifts in milk components. For feedlots, early-season forage may not offer the energy density needed for steady gains.
- Dairy Concerns: Early spring forage can be high in moisture and non-structural carbohydrates, increasing the risk of subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) and inconsistent milkfat.
- Feedlot Concerns: Green forages may fill cattle quickly without delivering the needed calories for optimal ADG.
- Van Beek Tip: Introduce feed changes gradually and support rumen adaptation with supplements that promote microbial stability and buffer rumen pH. Products designed to support the rumen wall and gut integrity are especially valuable during this transition.
Summer: Heat Stress and Energy Slumps
Summer heat brings the dual challenge of reduced feed intake and increased maintenance energy requirements. Heat-stressed cattle spend less time at the bunk and more energy on cooling, not growing or producing milk.
- Dairy Impact: Heat stress can lower milk yield, reduce fat and protein content, and impair reproduction.
- Feedlot Impact: Reduced dry matter intake (DMI) can lead to slower weight gain and increased days on feed.
- Van Beek Tip: Focus on feed efficiency with energy-dense, digestible rations. Use targeted supplements that support hydration, reduce oxidative stress, and promote gut efficiency even when DMI drops.
Fall: Nutrient Gaps and Immune Demands
As forages mature and cool-season stressors increase, cattle often experience subtle but significant changes in performance. For dairies, fall calving and breeding cycles place additional strain on cows. In feedlots, fall is often the time for incoming feeder calves—many of whom arrive stressed, under-conditioned, and immunocompromised.
- Dairy Focus: Fall fresh cows need adequate energy and immune support to transition smoothly.
- Feedlot Focus: Receiving programs must account for respiratory health, low DMI, and elevated metabolic needs.
- Van Beek Tip: Prioritize rumen function and immune readiness. Strategic use of immune-supporting supplements and stress-response products can reduce post-arrival morbidity and improve feed efficiency.
Winter: Maintenance, Energy Density, and Vitamin Deficiency
Cold temperatures drive up maintenance requirements. Whether you’re working to maintain condition in dry cows or finish steers in a feedlot, winter rations must work harder to deliver energy and fill nutritional gaps left by stored forages.
- Dairy Impact: Stored silages and hays often lack vitamins A, D, and E—critical for immune and reproductive health. Cold-stressed animals may underperform despite adequate dry matter intake.
- Feedlot Impact: High-energy diets are essential for compensating increased maintenance needs, especially for finishing cattle.
- Van Beek Tip: Supplement strategically. Use feed additives that support nutrient absorption and maintain gut integrity in colder months. Watch for signs of vitamin and trace mineral deficiencies, and test feed regularly to ensure you’re meeting real-time requirements.
Staying Ahead of Seasonal Shifts
For both dairy and feedlot operations, success hinges on anticipating the effects of seasonal changes—not reacting to them. Here’s how to stay ahead:
- Conduct regular feed and forage testing
- Monitor cow and calf performance with body condition scoring and DMI tracking
- Work closely with your nutritionist or vet to build adaptive ration plans
- Support transitions with proven natural solutions that enhance digestion, immunity, and resilience
Partnering with Van Beek Natural Science
At Van Beek Natural Science, we provide nutritional support that meets your animals where they are—whether they’re calving, transitioning, finishing, or recovering. Our portfolio of natural feed additives and health support products are designed to help you maximize performance, protect herd health, and respond to seasonal challenges with confidence.
Reach out to your Van Beek representative to learn more about our trusted solutions for digestive support, immune function, and stress recovery—tailored for dairy and feedlot success.
