Tips for Keeping Livestock Healthy and Prepared for Weather Changes
With the new year fully underway, the Ozark region enters the final few months of its winter season, often characterized by fluctuating temperatures and harsh weather conditions. With these extreme temperature shift it is imperative to be prepared for further cold shocks likely arriving this year or in future years.
Different extension centers across the United States, including the University of Missouri, Pennsylvania State University, Oregon State University, and Iowa State University, compiled these helpful tips on keeping livestock well-fed, hydrated, and happy through the changing weather.
Providing Cover
It is especially important to provide sufficient cover and bedding to livestock during the late winter to early spring transition. Though some may experience long stretches of sunny weather, if nighttime temperatures are consistently low and if there is precipitation of any form (rain, snow, etc.) in the air, providing cover bedding best helps livestock retain their body heat. This further protects livestock from frostbite and increased metabolic rates. Establishing windbreaks, such as lean-tos, small sheds, and stacked bales can also give livestock adequate coverage depending on weather conditions.
Providing Unfrozen Water
During cold temperatures, cattle specifically should consume 1 gallon of water per 100 lbs. of body weight per day. In the winter months, providing unfrozen water can be a chore and a challenge for many. However, it is highly important as dehydrated livestock struggle more with regulating their body heat. Some approachable options to combat this are frost-free waterers or heated waterers. Additionally, adding electrolytes, minerals, or salt mixes to water can encourage cattle to drink more water.
Reducing Muddy Conditions
Mud works against livestock in a similar manner to cold precipitation, making it imperative to reduce muddy conditions as much as possible. Though mud is nearly unavoidable from late February to March, it is still important to attempt to protect livestock from these conditions. One way to do this is to use hay as ground cover. Additionally, rotating feeding areas, if possible, can help mitigate the effects of mud on livestock.
Feeding Strategies
In response to fluctuating temperatures, livestock often require additional feed to maintain body heat and energy levels. However, the specific adjustments depend on the needs of the animals and the observations of their keeper. Farmers should be prepared for cattle to consume more than their usual amount of feed and remain flexible in making necessary changes. These adjustments might include adding dietary supplements or providing higher-energy forage to support the livestock’s health. Additionally, feeding cows in specific intervals can support them through nighttime temperatures. Feeding in the late afternoon can help as their heat production peaks approximately 6 hours after being fed.
Pasture Feeding and Timing
One major challenge farmers face during the transition from winter to spring is determining the right time to transition cattle from hay feed to pasture grazing. Doing so too early can cause cattle to starve due to the lack of essential nutrients in early spring forage sprouts. One of the best ways to determine if forage plants are ready for grazing is the pull test. This involves grasping a forage plant and pulling; if a human can uproot plants by pulling, livestock can do so by grazing. The uprooting is harmful to the pasture as it can damage the soil, which can lead to soil runoff, weed invasion and water quality degradation. Waiting until roots are firmly established is generally best practice. Though the execution of this task varies based on human performance, this task normally indicates readiness.
Keeping cattle and livestock healthy throughout the winter and early spring means being ready to pivot methods if necessary. Remaining vigilant and observant of your livestock will help ensure cattle are content through the upcoming cold and warm shocks.
For additional information and questions regarding caring for cattle through fluctuating, extreme weather, contact your local county extension.
