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.
However, there are proactive steps you can take when this bacteria makes its appearance on your ranch. Treating pinkeye infections early in your cattle is not just a matter of their health but also a crucial step to protect your investment. Delaying treatment increases the risk of permanent eye damage, leading to severe discounts at sale time and significantly impacting your revenue. The visible signs of pinkeye can diminish the perceived value of your cattle, emphasizing the importance of swift action.
Given that early treatment is vital, prevention is the optimal strategy. Pinkeye is highly contagious, and once it infiltrates your herd, it can rapidly spread. In the following post, we will delve into the causes of pinkeye, effective treatment options, and the best prevention strategies to keep your herd healthy and your operation profitable. Stay tuned to ensure you are equipped with the knowledge to combat this costly disease.
Hay bale storage, a vital aspect of cattle production, takes center stage, particularly in winter when natural forages are scarce. The staggering 4.6 million acres of hay harvested in Texas in 2023 underscore the pivotal role of hay production in sustaining livestock operations. However, when drought conditions worsen, the challenge of acquiring sufficient hay bales intensifies, making it crucial for producers to optimize their hay storage practices. This ensures the longevity and nutritional value of their hay supply, a key factor in maintaining a reliable source of supplemental nutrition for their livestock.
Protein tubs have been gaining popularity here lately with producers of all sizes. People who use them appreciate the convenience of having a supplement designed to be self-fed in the pasture. This not only provides balanced nutrition but also eliminates the need for extra labor, giving you more time to focus on other aspects of cattle management.
When it comes to mineral supplements, people tend to focus only on either spring or fall. During these times of the year, cattle go through their highest demands. But even though that is the case, you should still pay attention to your cows’ mineral needs during the rest of the year.
Maintaining your pasture during the summer is a crucial task that requires your diligent attention. In a matter of minutes, it can transition from adequate moisture to extremely dry. As a manager, your role is pivotal in preventing your pasture from suffering too much.
Having a good summer pasture management plan can save you many headaches later on. It will allow you to put out potential fires, not literally, before they occur.
A protein tub is a convenient way to provide extra nutrition when needed. One of its key benefits is that once you place it in the pasture, you can rest assured that you don’t need to check it daily. This benefit is beneficial for those who may have a job back in town, providing a sense of relief from daily checking responsibilities.
It is never good when your cattle suffer from diseases. They can reduce your performance and increase your expenses.
Breeding season preparations are crucial for any cow/calf producer’s bottom line. Their steps will determine if they will have a good calf crop. Good quality calves to sell are the defining factor between a successful and a not successful rancher.
