The weaning process, a pivotal period in the cattle business, is upon us once again. As any seasoned rancher will attest, it can be both magical and challenging. Weaning, a shared experience that can be stressful for both the cattle and the rancher, is a crucial step in the journey of cattle rearing.
Stress in cattle is a complex issue that can significantly impact their health and performance. It can be displayed by various signs, including increased vocalization, reduced feed intake, and abnormal behavior such as pacing. The issue with stress is that it can lower the immune system’s ability to fight off diseases, making the calves more susceptible to health issues. It may not seem like much, but it can reduce daily gains, increase health problems, and even cause death. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand and manage stress effectively during the weaning process.
Regardless of your weaning strategy, your role as a rancher in maintaining your calves’ performance is pivotal. Taking proactive steps to reduce stress can significantly decrease the chance of illness. Preparing calves before separating them from their mothers can yield benefits that are well worth the effort. Here are three actionable steps you, as a rancher, can take to help your calf crop wean successfully.
With summer arriving, treating pinkeye is an issue many cattle producers will face. As conditions get drier, dust levels rise, increasing eye irritants that can lead to this painful infection. Pinkeye doesn’t just affect the health of your cattle; it has a significant economic impact as well. Each year, pinkeye costs the cattle industry approximately $150 million due to decreased weight gain, reduced milk production, and the expenses associated with treatment.
