As temperatures rise, calf health is a concern as much of the country is experiencing wide swings in temperatures. With the changes of temperature also comes the challenge of mud.
AJ Tarpoff, DVM and Kansas State University extension veterinarian, says the key to dealing with fluctuating weather is for producers to be proactive in their management and work closely with their veterinarians to have protocols in place to address the health challenges that arise during these conditions.
He reminds producers these changes can lead to pneumonia, scours/diarrhea and hypothermia.
Tarpoff suggests these tips to keep calves healthy when faced with rising temperatures and muddy conditions.
1) Use plenty of bedding
“Bedding can go a long way to both mitigate the impacts of mud, but it also provides that thermal barrier whenever things do warm back up,” he says. “I know is an expense, but it’s an excellent investment in the animal’s comfort during this time.”
2) Observe pen conditions
Tarpoff encourages producers to turn cows out into larger paddocks when it warms up to reduce mud creation from the animals walking. Another strategy he suggested was altering feeding locations to reduce mud and distributes manure.
“If conditions deteriorate, don’t be afraid to run a box blade or partially pile buildup for removal at a later date,” he adds.
3) Monitor calves
When observing calves, Tarpoff says look for anything abnormal, including depression; off feed; lethargy; and not coming up with the rest of the group.
“Even if an animal is born in warmer temperature, they can get chilled pretty quick, especially if they are damp, or if they’re covered in mud,” he explains.
He reminds producers the best way to determine if a calf is hypothermic and how much help it needs is by using a rectal thermometer.
“The normal temperature for a calf should be somewhere between, 101- and 102-degrees Fahrenheit. If we get below 100, we’re already starting to show symptoms of hypothermia, and we need to take some action.”
Steps to warm the calf can include hot boxes, warming lamps or water baths.
4) Don’t forget basic biosecurity measures
Be sure to use separate feeding equipment (tubes, bottles) for sick and healthy calves, and clean them between each use. New introductions to the herd, like a graft calf from another operation, can bring in disease. During this time separating new animals for a month will help alleviate the risk.
5) Check with your vet
Consult with the local veterinarian on protocols for managing scours and pneumonia during these weather swings. Tarpoff encourages producers to be proactive and have a plan in place to address everything from colostrum replacement to sick cattle that may arise due to the weather and mud.
Read more:
Temperature Variation and Baby Calf Health
