Page 19 - Demo

The Midwest Cattleman %u00b7 October 24, 2024 %u00b7 P19All Consigners & Buyers WelcomeCall 816-597-3331 OfficeRick, Jeremy or Jared Anstine816-258-3421 %u2022 816-716-9288 %u2022 816-878-5229Website: www.kingsvillelivestock.com %u2022 email: anstineauction@gmail.comLocated 45 mi. SE of Kansas City, Mo on 58 Hwy. east at Modern Kingsville Livestock Auction Center at Kingsville, MOMake Plans To Attend Our Next Special Cow & Bull Sale- Saturday, November 23rd - 11:00 amIn conjunction withShow-Me-Select Bred Heifer SaleSee ad page 14On-Line Bidding available atCATTLEUSA.comAs we near the end of fall, cooler temperatures are on the horizon and winter will be upon us soon. Cows are generally hardy animals that can tolerate cold temperatures very well, especially when acclimated and properly cared for. They can endure a lot, but it does change them metabolically, we just can%u2019t see it, says Chris Cassady, Ph.D., BioZyme Director of Beef Technical Sales.Lower critical temperature (LCT) is influenced by both environmental and animal factors. These factors include a combination of wind chill, humidity, hair coat, and body condition score. Typically, a lower critical temperature (LCT) is around 18 degrees Fahrenheit with a full winter coat, Cassady says. %u201cSo will they survive, yes. But will it potentially cause metabolic changes and stressors, also yes. While they can survive harsh colds, what we can%u2019t see internally is what we need to focus on,%u201d he adds. Beef cattle can typically endure temperatures as low as -20%u00b0 Fahrenheit, and even colder, especially when they have good nutrition, are in good health and have adequate shelter or windbreaks.Providing adequate cattle shelter and nutrition during the coldest months of the year is essential for herd health and well-being. Cattle are fairly cold tolerant; however, the combination of wind chill and moisture can lead to cold stress, which leads to lowered performance and decreased immune response.Cassady offers six guidelines to producers to consider when preparing cattle for winter.1) Provide WindbreaksWindbreaks can be both natural and man-made. Plant rows of trees or shrubs to reduce the wind chill. A hilly area can also serve as a natural wind barrier.If trees are not an option, construct windbreaks from materials like wood, metal or fabric. These structures should be placed to block prevailing winds.2) Design Shelter for ComfortBuild open-sided barns or three-sided sheds to provide shelter from wind, snow and rain. The open side should face away from the wind, typically southward. Each cow needs about 40-50 square feet of space. Ensure the shelter area is big enough to comfortably house your herd.Good airflow is crucial to prevent respiratory diseases and mold growth in the shelter. Ensure proper ventilation to avoid condensation and moisture build-up. Additionally, we suggest installing vents or leaving space at the top of the shelter walls to promote air circulation.3) Protection from MudProvide deep bedding with materials like straw, corn stalks or wood shavings to insulate against cold ground. Regularly replenish bedding to keep it dry and warm.It is also vital to provide proper drainage around the shelter and windbreak, which prevents mud. Mud can cause hoof problems and stress cattle. Gravel pads or dry-lot pens can help keep the ground dry.4) Water and Feed AccessWater and feed are even more essential to your cattle during the cold months. Make sure cattle have access to both, especially when they are confined during storms or extreme cold.Use heated or insulated water troughs to prevent freezing. Ensure a consistent supply of clean water.Plan to increase rations and ensure there is a sufficient supply of forage. Ensure feed is easy to access without cattle needing to travel far. Keep feed close to or within the shelter.5) Be Prepared for Severe WeatherWe obviously don%u2019t have to remind cattle producers to check the weather. If you have prepared a winter cattle shelter properly, you should be prepared for heavy snow, freezing rain and extreme cold.We do recommend having an emergency plan in place for blizzards, such as moving cattle to barns or bringing in extra feed supplies. Finally, keep cattle calm and avoid overcrowding in confined spaces, as stress can lead to health issues.\ addition to providing a quality, well-ventilated bedded down winter cattle shelter, your herd also needs high-quality nutrition during times of cold stress,\says. How to Provide Winter Care for Your Cattle HerdBy Maggie Malsoncontinued on page 24