Cattle that are being targeted for finishing on grass should be starting to put on fat cover now, so keep a close eye over the coming weeks to ensure they do not run out of spec.

Meal levels

If cattle to be killed next month appear lean, increase meal levels being fed. Grass will provide more than enough protein for the animal, so buy a high-energy ration (UFV 0.95+) with a protein level of 12% to 14%.

Ideally, a simple mix of barley, soya hulls and beet pulp will do the job. You could include some maize meal if you are feeding late-maturing continental animals.

Feeding 3kg to 4kg/day should suffice in heifers and dairy-bred steers, with 4kg to 6kg/day enough for continental-type steers. Split the meal into two feeds per day.

Autumn grass is lower in energy, so higher meal levels will increase energy intake and help animals hit the correct fat score.

It will also help to improve grading and kill-out. If ground and weather conditions are difficult, it may be better to house and feed indoors for the final weeks.

Impressive numbers and worm talk at Kildalton

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Feeding cattle at grass, vaccinations and Ploughing demos

Beef editor Adam Woods takes a look at breeding vaccinations, feeding cattle at grass and looks forward to the Irish Farmers Journal demos taking place at the National Ploughing Championships