October 2017 Feed Newsletter Excerpt: As Temperatures Rise, The Cattle hide

As we enter the summer months, we are faced with high temperatures and less available water, two important factors for cattle health and performance.  Here are some way to avoid the effects of heat on cattle.

Heat stress can greatly impact cattle performance through decreased milk production, calf growth, reproductive performance, and calf performance. The ideal temperature range in which beef cattle are most productive is between 41ºF and 77ºF. There are also many environmental factors that affect cattle and their potential for heat stress, including relative humidity, wind speed, solar radiation, ground cover, water accessibility, diet, shade and temperature.

Available water and adequate shade is effective at reducing the effects of heat stress. The amount of shade required is 30 to 40 square feet for mature cattle, 20 to 25 square feet for feeder cattle and 15 to 20 square feet for stockers. When this space is limited the animal’s crowd together, enhancing heat stress. If natural shade is inadequate, construct permanent or portable shade structures.

Permanent shade structures are more suitable for feeding pens, but are frequently placed in pastures as well. Portable structures are more expensive to construct, but can be moved with the cattle. The benefits of portable structures include; more uniform grazing, less pasture damage in the shaded areas and better manure distribution. When selecting a location for shade structures, consider the advantage of prevailing winds during the summer and select areas with minimal slope to prevent erosion.

All shade structures should allow adequate airflow. UVresistant shade cloths that block at least 80-90% of UV rays provide adequate shade and allow for proper airflow. Solid coverings are more expensive and last longer, but are more susceptible to wind damage.

Heat stress will significantly decrease cattle performance, but with proper techniques you can combat the effects of heat and have a successful summer.
 

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