As autumn arrives and the days grow shorter, it’s the perfect time to get ahead of winter’s challenges. A little preparation now can prevent a lot of stress later. Everyone has their own routine but one of the most important areas to prioritise is the health of your livestock. Healthy, well-conditioned animals heading into the colder months - and especially into tupping - are the foundation of a successful lambing season.
A thorough livestock health review is key at this time of year. Start with body condition scoring (BCS) to ensure both sheep and cattle are in optimal condition. Ewes and cows that are too thin may struggle to maintain fertility and withstand winter, while animals that are too heavy can face complications at lambing or calving. Mineral deficiencies can also become more apparent as pasture quality declines. Signs such as dull coats, poor growth, and unusual eating habits indicate your flock may need supplementation.
Parasite control is another critical autumn task. Worms and fluke thrive in damp conditions, so testing and treating your animals before winter is essential. Similarly, hoof health requires attention, as damp and muddy conditions increase the risk of lameness. Early treatment will help prevent issues from escalating. Don’t forget routine vaccinations to keep your herd and flock protected from common seasonal diseases. Using NutriGrow’s mineral buckets, boluses, and energy licks can help maintain condition and prevent deficiencies when grass quality falls, giving your livestock the best start into winter.
As the tupping season approaches, additional preparation is vital. Ewes should ideally be at a BCS of 3–3.5 to maximise conception rates. Protein and energy supplementation can support leaner ewes grazing on poorer pasture. Rams also need attention - check them at least eight weeks before tupping to ensure they are free of lameness, have strong teeth and jaws, firm testicles, and a body condition score of 3.5–4. High-energy mineral buckets are a great way to support their stamina and fertility during this demanding period.
Finally, trace elements such as selenium, cobalt, iodine, and zinc are essential for fertility and lamb survival. Deficiencies can reduce scanning percentages and affect lambing success. Moving ewes onto fresh pasture 2–3 weeks before tupping, combined with proper mineral supplementation, helps maximise ovulation rates and ensures both rams and ewes enter breeding in peak condition.
Autumn may be one of the busiest times on the farm, but it is also one of the most important. Taking the time to review livestock health thoroughly, prepare fields, and support your flock before tupping will pay dividends in stronger fertility, healthier ewes, and a more productive lambing season. NutriGrow’s full range of livestock nutrition and seasonal supplies is designed to help your farm thrive this autumn.
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