Heat Stress In Cow-Calf Pairs
Post Date: July 11, 2023
As we dive into the sweltering summer months, this post we will focus on heat stress in cow-calf pairs.
It's essential to be aware of the challenges cattle face during hot weather and how that can negatively impact their production potential. In order to ensure your pairs are performing to the best of their ability, here are a few key points to consider in management of heat stress:
- Heat Stress is Real: Just like us, cows and calves can suffer from heat stress when temperatures soar. High humidity and direct sunlight make matters worse, making it challenging for them to regulate their body temperature.
- Hydration is Vital:Ensuring an abundant supply of clean and fresh water is non-negotiable during hot days. Proper hydration is crucial for the well-being of our animals and helps them cope with the heat. If you can move cattle to a pasture with a large body of water, they typically will use it to cool off in addition to drinking water.
- Shade and Ventilation:Providing ample shade and proper ventilation is a must! Creating sheltered areas allows our cow-calf pairs to escape the scorching sun and reduces their risk of heat stress. Make sure to routinely check shady areas to ensure they are actually cooler than the environment, metal buildings or black netting can sometimes have opposite effects.
- Timing of Activities:Planning activities like feeding and handling during the cooler parts of the day can help minimize the impact of heat stress on our animals. Early mornings or late evenings are the best times for cattle work during the summer months.
- Fly Control:Pesky flies not only annoy the cows but can also contribute to stress. Employing effective fly control measures can make a significant difference in keeping our herds comfortable.
- Monitor Health:Regularly monitoring our cow-calf pairs' health is essential. Heat stress can lead to various health issues, so paying close attention to their behavior and well-being can help us take early preventive measures. Cows that are open-mouth panting, lying down, separated from the herd, or have an increased respiratory rate should be checked routinely.
Let's work together to ensure our cow-calf pairs have a comfortable and stress-free summer. By implementing these measures, we can help them thrive even in the hottest days!
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