Integrating lifetime nutrition: from cow/calf to stocker to feedlot.

Given the diversity of nutritional background of beef cattle, the more information the nutritionist can acquire, the better the nutritional management programs during the finishing period can be developed. Some factors that should be accounted for include weaning status and previous growing treatments. Working cattle up on feed and bunk management continue to be a challenge for nutritional consultants. Use of anabolic implants continues to be one of the most effective management programs; however carcass quality may be affected with some implants.