Efficient Cattle Management and Grazing Strategies on Pat Carthy’s Sligo Farm

ABP Monitor Farm Update: Pat Carthy’s Sligo Cattle and Sheep Management

Pat Carthy’s farm in County Sligo has all 2024-born cattle still grazing due to ample grass supply. This farm is one of eight ABP Monitor Farms in Ireland, focusing on various finishing systems.

Recent practices include minimal worm treatment. Calves received only one dose, as dung sampling indicated no further treatment was necessary. To prevent worms, Pat utilizes mineral lick blocks, which he finds effective.

As colder weather approaches, Pat will house the cattle soon. He plans to clip the hair from their backs and apply a pour-on lice treatment after housing. He will also assess the need for treating internal parasites based on dung samples and veterinary recommendations.

In summer, all 2023-born bulls were housed and started a diet of high-quality silage, straw, and a maize blend. The first bulls were slaughtered last week, averaging 400kg carcass weight and a grade of U3. The remaining bulls will be slaughtered in the next two weeks.

Pat’s grass cover remains good, aided by applying 20 units of protected Urea in early September. The favorable weather has been beneficial for the cattle. Suckler-bred calves weaned in September continue to graze, receiving some concentrates. They were vaccinated for pneumonia and black leg earlier this year.

Over 100 store lambs, each averaging 36kg, have been added to the farm. They are thriving on the abundant grass, and conditions remain advantageous for both cattle and sheep.

To support the calves’ digestion, they have access to ad-lib straw while grazing. Pat plans to house more stock soon as ground conditions begin to soften. He will use lambs to clear excess grass, promoting healthy grass growth for the upcoming spring.