The shortest day of 2015 is here. The winter solstice, December 22nd, signals the official beginning of winter. Weather’s unpredictable nature requires cattlemen and their veterinarians be prepared.
Source: Drovers CattleNetwork Daily, December 21, 2015.
Cattle are most comfortable within the thermoneutral zone when temperatures are neither too warm nor too cold. During the winter months cattle experience cold stress anytime the effective ambient temperature, which takes into account wind chill, humidity, etc., drops below the lower critical temperature. The lower critical temperature is influenced by both environmental and animal factors including hair coat and tissue insulation (body condition).
INSIGHTS: If I had beef cattle, the lower critical temperature chart would be on my refrigerator and shop bulletin board. Consider making 25 to 50 copies to share with clients and customers. Reps and DVMs can use this article to discuss cold weather preparations, including safety stock on respiratory anti-infectives.