Five tips for managing cattle health at grass

Late May and early June is a period when cattle health issues crop up on suckler farms around the country.

Fieldwork, such as silage harvesting, will be occupying farmers' minds at present, but do not take your eye off the ball when it comes to cattle health.

Outlined are a few health issues affecting animals at this time of year.

When it comes to animal health, prevention is better than cure.

Early treatment is always more effective, so do not postpone some of the outlined tasks for too long.

1 Worming calves

Grass will be an increasing proportion of a spring-born calf’s daily diet, and with it, younger animals will be ingesting worms shed by older animals.

Showers over the weekend and warmer temperatures mean that worm populations will be increasing rapidly.

February- and early March-born calves will be due a worm dose in the coming weeks. Younger calves born in April and May should be OK until late June.

But keep an eye on these animals regardless and if there are visible signs of a worm problem in at least half of the calf group, then treat earlier.

Autumn-born calves and yearling stores should also be treated for worms now to keep weight gains at optimum levels over the summer.

2 Clostridial vaccine

Make sure calves are up to date with clostridial vaccines.

Where appropriate, ensure that the second booster shot is given on time for maximum cover against problems such as blackleg.

3 First-calved heifers

First-calved heifers will be under physical stress trying to cope with the demands of early lactation.This can suppress these animals' natural immunity, leaving them vulnerable to worm burdens.

Worming first-calved heifers in June can be beneficial, as well as helping to improve body condition and increase conceptions rates.

4 Tetany risk

Grass regrowth will be increasing week on week. Where cows are grazing lush covers of fast-growing grass, there is a risk of tetany.

If cows are grazing on silage aftermath, or paddocks taken out as bales, the tetany risk will be increased significantly.

Therefore, ensure cows are properly covered for magnesium.

Also, avoid grazing paddocks where slurry has been spread or received high potash (k) fertiliser levels with lactating cows.

5 Mastitis

Where cows are grazing near wooded or sheltered areas, or close to dormant water sources, flies will be an issue, which increases the risk of mastitis.

Ensure cows are covered with an effective fly repellent product to avoid udder problems.

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