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Cattle do not handle heat stress as well as humans. SO
while we may be uncomfortable on those 90 degree days, your
cattle may actually be suffering more severe symptoms.
The key to minimizing heat stress is to try to prevent
and lessen the effects of the heat by implementing a heat
stress management plan.
1. Have ample water available. A 1,000 pound
steer can consume up to 20 gallons a day in 90o
degree weather. Make sure that your water supply can
keep up with the demand of the number of animals in the lot.
2. Avoid handling cattle if possible. If you
need to work with your steers, consider doing it before 10
am, before temps start to climb.
3. If steers are not on a self feeder, consider
moving feeding time towards evening, 2 to 4 hours after peak
temperatures.
4. Improve air flow in pens.
5. If cattle are in outside lots, provide shade to
help minimize the heat load and effects of solar radiation.
6. Control biting flies. Signs
of Heat Stress
- Bunching in shade (if it's available)
- Slobbering
- High respiratory rates (panting)
- Open mouth breathing
- Lack of coordination
- Trembling
If your cattle are showing these signs of heat stress, you
must take immediate action to alleviate the heat stress
conditions. Move cattle to a shade where there is
adequate ventilation. Offer a constant supply of fresh
water. If possible, use sprinklers to help cool cattle
down. Also, if you must move cattle, do so gently and
quietly to avoid stressing them more.
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