Keeping Your Cattle Healthy and Comfortable During Winter

Practical Winter Care for Happy, Healthy Cattle

Here’s a helpful guide on keeping your cattle healthy and comfortable during the colder months, focusing on nutrition, shelter, and health monitoring:

1. Provide Adequate Nutrition for Winter Energy Needs: In winter, cattle need extra energy to stay warm, so providing the right nutrition is crucial. Good-quality forage is essential, as the fiber in hay helps generate heat during digestion. You might also consider supplementing with grains or protein blocks for additional energy, especially during very cold spells or if forage quality is low. Also, ensure access to clean, fresh water, as cattle consume more water in winter than in summer. Investing in a water heater or regularly breaking ice can prevent dehydration and digestive issues.

2. Create Shelters for Wind and Weather Protection: While cattle are resilient and can tolerate cold, wind, rain, and snow can increase their energy expenditure. Offering access to windbreaks or shelter can reduce exposure to harsh elements, helping cattle conserve body heat and energy. A three-sided shed, a grove of trees, or even portable windbreaks can make a difference. Ensure bedding areas are dry, as wet ground can cause chilling, leading to health risks. Straw, hay, or other bedding materials help insulate the cattle from the cold ground, promoting rest and comfort.

3. Monitor Cattle Health and Prevent Illness: Winter can be tough on the immune system, so regularly monitor your cattle for signs of illness, such as lethargy, coughing, or nasal discharge. Respiratory infections are common during cold, wet weather, so providing vaccination for common pathogens is wise. Regular deworming, as recommended by a vet, can also keep their immune systems strong. Be mindful of body condition as well; cattle losing weight may need additional nutrition. Quick responses to signs of stress or illness can keep minor issues from becoming severe problems.

By focusing on proper nutrition, providing adequate shelter, and proactively monitoring health, you’ll keep your cattle healthy, comfortable, and ready for the challenges of the colder months.

For more information, give Burton Realty & Auction a call at (575) 760-8088.