26/10/2026
🌾 PREPARING FOR THE SUMMER FEED GAP
Spring pasture can look plentiful, but as the season changes, feed quality and availability can shift quickly. Before the paddocks dry off, it’s worth taking a closer look at how your livestock and feed plan are tracking.
☀️ THE BEST TIME TO PLAN FOR SUMMER IS BEFORE THE FEED RUNS OUT.
As pasture matures, protein, energy and digestibility can decline. Livestock may still have plenty to graze, but the feed may no longer provide everything they need to maintain condition, growth or production.
🐂 A FEW QUESTIONS TO ASK NOW:
✅ 1. How much usable feed do you really have? Look beyond the amount of grass in the paddock. Consider pasture quality, stocking rates, grazing pressure and how long current feed is likely to last.
✅ 2. Are your livestock in the right condition? Good-quality spring feed provides an opportunity to build condition before summer. It is usually easier and more cost-effective to maintain condition than to recover it later.
✅ 3. What will your pasture be lacking? Dry, mature pasture may provide bulk but can be short on protein, energy or key minerals. Identifying likely deficiencies early can help you choose the right supplement.
✅ 4. Do you have a feeding strategy? Think about whether you may need protein supplements, energy feeds, loose licks, blocks or other options. Planning ahead can give you greater flexibility and help avoid last-minute decisions.
✅ 5. When will you step in? Set clear indicators for when supplementation should begin. Livestock condition, pasture quality, feed availability and changing weather conditions can all help guide the timing.
💡 THE KEY MESSAGE
Summer feeding decisions are easier when they are made before livestock begin to lose condition.
By reviewing your paddocks, stock and feed options now, you can be better prepared for the seasonal change and support more consistent livestock performance through the warmer months.
🌾 CS Livestock can help you prepare with practical livestock feed and supplementation options for changing seasonal conditions.
📞 Speak Chris at CS Livestock today about planning ahead for summer.
Don’t wait until the paddocks are dry. Start preparing now.