The fall season can be problematic for a beef producer. As you go into it after a dry, hot summer, the entire herd may be stressed. The combination of high heat, short grass, and low water tanks can stress cattle and make them more prone to disease.
This time of year can be a problem for all of your cattle. At the end of summer, the cows are likely pulled down to a thin body condition because of lower-quality forage and nursing calves. Your bulls are worn out from breeding and may also be on the light side. A typical situation during this time of year is that the calves deal with the most stressful time of their lives during weaning.
Producers can prevent or minimize health problems in the fall by reducing stress. You can do this by providing adequate nutrition and improving sanitation. Below is some information about four types of diseases you might encounter during this time of year.
