As temperatures rise and pastures begin to green, livestock nutritional needs shift. Winter rations are designed to provide extra energy for warmth, but as spring approaches, feed strategies must adapt to prevent inefficiencies.

Kathryn Thompson :: Monday 10th February 2025 :: Latest Blog Posts

Top Feed Strategies to Transition Livestock from Winter to Spring

As temperatures rise and pastures begin to green, livestock nutritional needs shift. Winter rations are designed to provide extra energy for warmth, but as spring approaches, feed strategies must adapt to prevent inefficiencies. A well-balanced diet supports growth, productivity, and overall herd or flock health during seasonal transitions. Adjusting feed properly ensures livestock make the most of spring's fresh forage while avoiding digestive upsets or weight gain issues.

Understanding the Seasonal Shift

During winter, livestock diets are typically energy-dense to help maintain body temperature and condition in colder weather. Feeds rich in grains and high-calorie ingredients ensure animals have the fuel they need to stay warm and productive. However, as spring arrives and temperatures rise, these energy demands decrease. Continuing to feed a high-energy diet can lead to inefficiencies, such as excessive weight gain, which may impact productivity and overall animal health.

Another key factor in the seasonal shift is the introduction of fresh pasture. While spring grass is highly palatable and nutrient-rich, it can also be high in moisture and low in fibre, which may cause digestive disturbances if introduced too quickly. Additionally, fluctuating temperatures in early spring can still pose a challenge to livestock, making a balanced transition crucial.

Adjusting feed gradually allows livestock to adapt to new nutrient profiles while maintaining optimal condition. By fine-tuning rations and monitoring intake, farmers can help their animals transition smoothly from winter to spring without compromising health or performance.

Key Adjustments for Spring Livestock Feed

1. Balancing Energy and Protein Levels

As temperatures rise, livestock require fewer calories to maintain body condition. Reducing high-energy ingredients, such as grain-based feeds, helps prevent unnecessary weight gain. However, protein levels must remain balanced to support muscle development, milk production, and overall health. Ensuring the right energy-to-protein ratio allows animals to transition smoothly without compromising growth or productivity.

2. Boosting Vitamin and Mineral Intake

Spring introduces new nutritional challenges, including fluctuating temperatures and increased exposure to environmental stressors. Key trace minerals like zinc and selenium play a vital role in immune function, helping livestock stay resilient against seasonal changes. Additionally, vitamin levels may need adjustment to complement fresh pasture intake and support overall wellbeing.

3. Incorporating Fibre and Gut Health Boosters

Spring grass is rich in nutrients but often lacks the fibre needed for proper digestion. Introducing fibrous feeds, such as hay or silage, helps maintain gut health and prevent digestive upsets. Prebiotics and probiotics can further support microbial balance in the gut, ensuring efficient digestion and nutrient absorption during this transition period.

Practical Spring Feeding Tips for Smooth Transitions

• Gradual feed changes to avoid digestive upsets.
• Monitor body condition and feed intake.
• Importance of working with a nutritionist to tailor rations.
• Include sub sections for pigs, poultry, sheep and cattle including specific tips for each of these livestock types. 
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Transitioning livestock from winter to spring feeding requires a careful approach to avoid digestive upsets and ensure animals continue to thrive. Gradual changes, close monitoring, and tailored nutrition plans help prevent issues such as weight loss, bloating, or metabolic imbalances. Below are key strategies for a smooth transition, with specific tips for different livestock types.

General Tips for All Livestock

• Introduce dietary changes gradually – Adjust feed over 7–10 days to allow the digestive system to adapt. Sudden shifts can disrupt gut health and lead to digestive disturbances.
• Monitor body condition and feed intake – Keep a close eye on weight changes, appetite, and manure consistency to identify any potential issues early.
• Work with a nutritionist – Customising feed plans ensures animals receive the right balance of nutrients, accounting for forage quality and production goals.

Cattle (Beef & Dairy)

• Slowly introduce fresh pasture – Spring grass is high in moisture and can cause loose stools or bloat. Offering dry hay alongside pasture helps maintain fibre intake.
• Balance energy and protein – Reduce high-energy winter feeds while ensuring adequate protein for growth, milk production, and fertility.
• Watch for grass staggers – Magnesium deficiency, common in spring-grazing cattle, can be prevented by supplementing magnesium through mineral licks or fortified feed.

Sheep

• Prevent twin-lamb disease – Ewes in late pregnancy require nutrient-dense diets. Introduce quality protein sources gradually as forage becomes available.
• Beware of sudden lush pasture intake – Spring grass can cause digestive upsets. Slowly transition ewes and lambs onto pasture while providing supplementary fibre.
• Support lamb growth – Young lambs benefit from creep feeding with high-quality starter pellets to complement early pasture grazing.

Pigs

• Adjust energy levels – Reduce calorie-dense winter rations as temperatures rise to prevent excess fat gain.
• Enhance gut health – Probiotics and fibre-rich feed help pigs adapt to seasonal changes without digestive stress.
• Optimise outdoor pig diets – If pigs are moved to pasture, ensure adequate mineral supplementation, as soil conditions may not provide all essential nutrients.

Poultry

• Increase calcium and vitamin intake – With longer daylight hours, egg-laying hens require enhanced calcium and vitamin D levels for strong eggshells.
• Support gut health – Probiotics and fibre-rich grains help birds adjust to dietary changes while maintaining digestive balance.
• Adjust protein for growth and laying performance – Young birds and layers require different protein levels. Tailor feed to match their needs for efficient production.

By making these adjustments, farmers can ensure their livestock transition smoothly into the spring season, maintaining productivity and overall health.

Fine-Tuning Spring Feed Strategies for Success

Tailoring feed strategies to specific livestock needs-whether cattle, sheep, pigs, or poultry-ensures that each animal receives the right nutrition for optimal performance. Working with a nutritionist can further refine feeding plans, maximising the benefits of spring pasture while maintaining a balanced diet.

With the right approach, livestock can thrive throughout the season, supporting farm productivity and profitability. For expert guidance on seasonal feeding solutions, contact BW Feeds today to discuss a tailored nutrition plan for your herd or flock.