Cattle

Avian Influenza (H5N1) Outbreaks Seen in Dairy Herds Across the Country

New research from Michigan State University will study the effects of a recent highly pathogenic avian influenza A virus (H5N1) outbreak on dairy cattle reproduction and milk production, as well as transmission of the disease and ways to mitigate it. Support for the new project has been provided

Dairy cattle can be affected in many ways by various types of stressors in their lifetime. Some of these stressors include temperature, living conditions, feeding management and others (Villamediana, 2022). The stress can cause a cow to have a decreased milk production, changes in body weight, increased risk of infections, diseases, and others.

Resources for beef herd management

This new webinar series will focus on timely topics related to beef production in our region. Webinars will be held from 7:30-8:30 pm. on the first Thursday of each month.

Many producers are aware that gastrointestinal parasites can reduce cattle performance, and accordingly, take measures to protect their animals.  This article outlines several steps to follow in order to establish a judicious and effective deworming program.

Resources on Beef cattle nutrition

Grass tetany is a condition that occurs when magnesium levels in the blood and spinal fluid become too low to support normal bodily functions. The occurrence of grass tetany is often isolated to the springtime when cattle are grazing primarily lush, rapidly growing perennial pasture. Author: Sarah Potts, Ph.D.; Title: Grass Tetany

In Maryland, May and June are the ideal breeding season for spring calving herds – pastures are looking good and the high heat and humidity of the summers here hasn’t hit yet, making for lower stress cattle handling. With each breeding season, it’s important to look back on past years – stick with methods that have worked and also learn from mistakes that were made.

As summer heats up, water becomes more important for cattle. An animal’s body is comprised of 70% water and adequate water consumption is required to maximize performance. It’s no secret that withholding or restricting water can decrease feed intake and reduce gains. Yet many producers often forget to assess whether or not their animals have optimal access to high quality water. An animal’s water requirement is met through consumption of feed and drinking. Many feeds, such as silage and grasses, contain a large proportions of water that help cattle meet their water requirement. Additional requirements are met through drinking.