Preparing for wintering is a necessary activity as the colder weather and shorter days draw in many of you will have already started thinking about bringing stock in for winter housing. Unfortunately, it isn’t just as simple as bringing them up to the sheds, processes need to be followed and checks carried out to ensure that cattle are in the best environment for continued growth and strong health.
Pneumonia prevention during housing
Pneumonia is one of the most common and costly diseases that we see in housed cattle, particularly in young-stock. It is important that we prepare before the cattle are moved indoors to ensure that pneumonia does not spread. Consider the three Vs when preparing for housing;
- Vaccination: we recommend ensuring that your pneumonia vaccinations are up to date and if not, administered 2-3 weeks before housing to allow immunity to develop. Speak to your vet for the best options for your farm & stock.
- Ventilation: good ventilation is essential to ensure that there is enough airflow through the sheds which will in turn reduce moisture and pathogens. Before housing, do an in-depth check of your sheds, patch up leaks which lead to excess moisture and make sure that airflow is strong.
- Volume: avoid over-crowding. High stocking density increases humidity, stress and disease transmission and can encourage the spread of pneumonia.
Parasite control
Autumn is a prime-time for internal and external parasites, bringing untreated cattle indoors can be a tipping point for their rapid spread.
- Worming: establish whether cattle need worming prior to housing. Cheshire Farm Vets offer a faecal egg count service, offering a ‘pool’ or ‘individual’ service.
- Fluke: although this summer has been dry there is still a growing concern regarding Liver Fluke. Cheshire Farm Vets offer a fluke test and we can chat with you further about treatment options.
- Lice & Mites: these thrive in warm environments and can spread rapidly throughout housed stock, spot-on or pour-on treatments are readily available and we can discuss the best option for you.
Please contact us for more information or to place an order.
Bedding Hygiene
Clean and dry bedding is essential for preventing lameness, respiratory issues, the spread of disease and mastitis.
Different bedding systems will in turn require different action, however at base level it is important that regular mucking out and topping up of bedding is carried out.
Drainage is equally as important to ensure that pooling and extended periods of dampness is not happening, ensure drains and run offs are clear, especially after times of high rainfall.
Nutrition
Housing often means a change of diet which can in turn stress the rumen and immune system, follow these steps to reduce issues.
- Transition feeding: consider incorporating silage or your preferred fodder whilst cattle are still at grass to reduce the stress and get their digestive systems prepped for the change.
- Mineral supplementation: deficiencies in common minerals can greatly affect fertility, growth and immunity therefore considering supplementation, such as boluses, is a great way to ensure that your cattle have the correct levels for optimum health.
- Water: over the colder months pipes and troughs can freeze, check sheds and water systems daily to ensure that cattle have access to ample unfrozen water and insulate if necessary.
Stress Reduction
Stress is a major factor in disease, poor growth, and possible miscarriage in cattle. Ideally avoid mixing unfamiliar cattle to reduce fighting and hierarchy stresses, especially in pregnant cattle. In the early weeks monitor cattle closely, early intervention is key!
Final Thoughts
Housing season is a busy time of year, but a little preparation in the weeks before makes a big difference. By taking into account the above topics and advice you can set your herd up for a healthy and productive winter.
If you would like help reviewing your housing plan, vaccination schedule, or parasite control strategy please do get in touch with us on 01994 230220 or 01267 220404, we are here to support you and your stock every step of the way.
