Oklahoma State veterinarian says water shade and early detection are key when heat and humidity climb
STILLWATER, Okla. — Hot weather is part of summer in cattle country, but high temperatures mixed with humidity can quickly turn from uncomfortable to dangerous.
Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, Oklahoma State University veterinarian and beef cattle Extension specialist, is urging producers to keep a close eye on cattle during periods of extreme heat.
Heat stress develops when cattle can no longer get rid of enough body heat to maintain a normal temperature. High humidity and poor airflow can make the situation worse.
The effects can reach well beyond cattle simply being uncomfortable. Heat stress can reduce feed intake, hurt reproductive performance and, in severe cases, lead to death.
Know What to Watch For
Biggs says producers need to recognize trouble early.
Open mouth breathing and heavy panting are warning signs. Cattle may also crowd around water tanks or shade. Pasture cattle may spend less time grazing, while cattle on feed may back away from the bunk.
“If we get to the point of heat stress, then these cattle are in critical condition,” Biggs said.
Plenty of clean water is one of the most important tools producers have. Automatic waterers should be checked regularly during hot weather to make sure cattle have adequate flow and supply.
Shade is also important, whether it comes from trees or a structure.
Heat Can Hurt Breeding Season
Heat stress can also show up later in the calf crop.
Females under heat stress may show weaker signs of estrus or remain in heat for a shorter period, making heat detection more difficult for producers using artificial insemination.
Bulls are not immune either. High temperatures can reduce semen quality and sperm production, potentially lowering conception rates.
“It’s harder for those who check heats to see them show heats. They may come in and come out much quicker,” Biggs said.
Heat stress during pregnancy can also affect the developing calf and potentially influence performance after birth.
Be Careful Working Cattle
Producers should also consider the weather before processing, hauling or otherwise handling cattle.
Biggs recommends using a Cattle Comfort Index to help determine when conditions could become dangerous and whether cattle work should be moved to a cooler part of the day.
“It’s very useful, particularly for producers trying to evaluate things like, should I process today, or should I not, or should I do it at a certain time?” Biggs said.
Her advice during the dog days of summer comes down to three things.
“Get eyes on cattle on a regular basis, make sure they have access to plenty of clean water, and give them access to shade, whether its from trees or man-made structures,” Biggs said.
When heat and humidity settle over cattle country, catching trouble early can make all the difference.
Leave a Reply