Depending on management plans, some cattle producers are preparing for calving season with some early arrivals already being reported.

With animals in their third trimester, it's important that the cow is getting what it needs to support herself as well as the growing calf.

Regional livestock specialist Colby Elford says she needs about 60 percent total digestible nutrients (TDN) and nine per cent crude protein in her diet.

"Then once that calf hits the ground and we're feeding a lactating cow, the energy requirement jumps up significantly up to about 65 per cent TDN, and crude protein levels of over 11 per cent are necessary," he says.

Elford notes notes you can bump up those levels by adding energy dense feed like a pellet, barley, or oats.