ow 0ºF. These extreme conditions can have drastic adverse effects on cattle health and can dramatically increase cattle maintenance energy requirements.
If cattle are wet, the danger is even greater.
Another environmental factor which can negatively impact herd health is mud. Excessive muddy conditions creates disease/health risks by harboring disease-causing pathogens, and can lead to increased problems with foot rot, scours, or naval ill. Areas where cattle congregate such as around feeding troughs, water sources, or shade are particularly susceptible to trampling damage and mud accumulation. Lanes where cattle move through in groups are also areas that are likely to become muddy. Mud creates hazards for newborn calves to become chilled or trapped. In addition, mud has negative impacts on animal performance by impacting feeding behavior. Mud causes suction on hooves, making it more difficult to move. For example, just 4 to 8 inches of mud can cause a 4 to 8% lower feed intake and 14% lower ADG, while belly deep mud (12+ inches) can cause 30% lower feed intake.
Often management strategies are not included in a herd health program. Many producers consider only vaccines, dewormers, or treatment strategies when developing a plan, but proper management practices can save money through reducing treatment costs, and may ultimately lead to increased profits through increased animal performance.
Source: Dr. Brandi Bourg – Extension Beef Cattle Specialist, Mississippi State University