Planning ahead is essential to maintain herd fertility and keep calving patterns tight.

For cows to calve within a 365 day window, they have 80-90 days between calving and conception, so efforts to enhance next year’s herd fertility starts as soon as this year’s calves hit the ground. We are all mindful cow fertility is only as good as the bulls they are running with and many studies have shown around 1 in 4 stock bulls are sub-fertile. For this reason, it is at this point in the spring calving calendar we should consider the impact of bull fertility and how best to prepare bulls in preparation for the season ahead.

There is still time to carry out a bull ‘MOT’ focusing on the ‘five Ts’:
• Toes – Bulls feet may need attention, especially in advance of being put to work when they can often go lame!
• Tone – A body condition score of 3-3.5 at the start of breeding season is recommended. A bull entering the breeding season too lean will struggle to put condition on, leading to lack of activity.
• Testicles – Measure; a minimum of 34cm scrotal circumference is recommended for two year olds in most breeds.
• Treat – With the correct worm, fluke and lice dosages for all cattle being part of the animal health plan, bulls should also be covered paying attention to correct dosage for the weight of the animal.
• Test – Consult your vet for a thorough bull breeding soundness examination. This has become an important aid in checking the semen quality and physical soundness of the animal before he is required to breed.

To help support your bulls nutritionally ahead of bulling season, we recommend Stockman’s Choice Bull Booster at 500g/head/day for 50 days pre-bulling.

Bull Booster

Available in 25kg bags

Quality mineral and additive pack to support overall health and fertility:
• Natural antioxidants, Sel-plex selenium and high vitamin E for health and immunity
• Rumitech, protected zinc and omega 3 to promote fertility
• B12 and Evo to stimulate appetite and reduce stress
• Yea-Sacc for rumen function
• Biotin for sound feet

1 x 25kg bag = 1 stock bull

REMEMBER: Half the genetics come from the bull, so if you want to gain a positive epigenetic effect, Bull Booster is ideal!