Fall weather is a series of transitions from hot days to cool days, which include wind, rain, sleet and snow. In much of the U.S., it is normal to see high-low temperature swings of 50o F or more. The Beef Checkoff-funded BQA National Manual provides guidelines for handling cattle as weather patterns vary to optimize animal welfare.
Julia Herman, DVM, MS, DACVPM, writes about cattle’s changing needs, including energy requirements, water access, shelter, bedding, and more, to maintain their normal body temperature during fall weather swings.
Source: BQA, October 25, 2022. Link. For guidelines on how weather stress contributes to total quality management, biosecurity and more, check out the BQA Manual and other resources at BQA.ORG.
Recognizing and preparing for weather stress ahead of time is critical as there is less a producer can do on short notice. Most mitigation strategies require prior planning and investment . . .” – Grant Dewell, DVM, MS, PhD
INSIGHTS: The 2024 corn and soybean crop harvest is nearly complete <Link> and substantially ahead of previous years. Cattle will be turned out onto stalks and while some producers may be hauling water, reminding them to prepare for the inevitable inclement weather ahead is a good business practice for animal health pros.
