In a column, beef farmer and specialist advisor James Strain reports that his final batch of beef cattle has been housed for five weeks in Burnfoot. Strain outlines his current feeding strategy, which relies entirely on cattle grazed on his own farm over the summer rather than purchased replacements.
Housing and Feeding Strategies in Burnfoot
Strain notes that he is feeding predominantly heifers this year alongside just one pen of bullocks. Because he grazed enough cattle over the summer months, he did not need to buy any additional stock for the back end. This contrasts with other years when he fed a batch of bulls through the summer that required replacement after being slaughtered in July or August. Keeping home-grazed numbers has simplified management heading into the winter housing period.
James Strain proceeds with the second vaccine dose after veterinary advice
With cattle settled in the sheds, Strain initially considered skipping the Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR) vaccine, which acts as a form of cattle flu. The animals had received their initial shot upon purchase in the spring, but that protection lasts only six months. Following a conversation with his local vet, Strain decided to proceed with the second vaccine dose. The veterinarian advised that the protection outweighs potential risks, prompting a reassessment of the bigger picture.
James Strain plans dung sampling to address a persistent cough in cattle
Although the cattle received doses for stomach and lung worms at housing, a slight cough persists in the shed. To avoid guessing, Strain plans to take dung samples for analysis. Fluke control presents a separate timing challenge. Because the cattle have only been housed for five weeks, the only active dose available for use is triclabendazole. Waiting a couple of weeks would allow alternative products, but long withdrawal periods must be balanced against potential pre-Christmas slaughter dates.
Managing Remaining Grass and Ground Conditions
Very few cattle remain on grass, and with store lambs not yet purchased, the farm currently holds surplus grass. Ground conditions are described as tender, leading Strain to avoid tightening stock to prevent damage. While graze-outs may suffer under these conditions, incoming lambs will eventually clean up whatever forage the cattle leave behind.
James Strain explains his advisory role and cattle purchasing decisions
What is the primary role of James Strain outside of farming?
James Strain works as a specialist advisor with Inishowen Co-Op, where he produces a regular newsletter, and contributes occasionally to the Farmers’ Journal.
Why did Strain change his approach to buying cattle this year?
Strain did not need to buy cattle for the back end because he had grazed enough animals on his farm over the summer, avoiding the need to replace summer-slaughtered bulls.
What specific product must be used for fluke control at this stage?
Because the cattle have only been housed for five weeks, triclabendazole is the only active dose that can currently be used to manage fluke.