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Dear Cattle Ranchers and Farmers,
As we enter into the peak grazing season, it’s crucial to address the potential threat of grass tetany in cattle. Also known as hypomagnesemia, grass tetany is a serious metabolic disorder primarily affecting grazing cattle, particularly those consuming lush, rapidly growing forage.
Causes of Grass Tetany:
Grass tetany occurs due to a deficiency of magnesium in the bloodstream. Several factors contribute to this deficiency, including:
- High Potassium and Nitrogen Levels: Lush, rapidly growing forages, such as early spring grasses or fertilized pastures, often have high levels of potassium and nitrogen. These elements interfere with magnesium absorption in the rumen, leading to a deficiency.
- Low Magnesium Content: Some pastures naturally have low magnesium levels, exacerbating the risk of tetany, especially during periods of rapid growth when magnesium uptake by plants is further reduced.
- Stress: Environmental stressors such as cold weather, inclement weather, transportation, or calving can increase the risk of grass tetany by disrupting magnesium metabolism in cattle.
- Age and Production Stage: Older cows, as well as lactating cows, are at a higher risk due to increased magnesium requirements for milk production and metabolism.
Prevention Strategies:
Preventing grass tetany requires a multi-faceted approach aimed at ensuring adequate magnesium intake and minimizing risk factors. Here are some key prevention strategies:
- Supplementation: Provide cattle with magnesium supplementation, either through mineral supplements or feed additives. These supplements should be offered well in advance of the grazing season and continued throughout periods of risk.
- Forage Management: Monitor pasture conditions and grazing patterns. Avoid turning cattle onto lush, rapidly growing pastures during periods of high risk. Instead, consider supplementing grazing with hay or other forages with balanced mineral content.
- Soil Testing and Fertilization: Conduct soil tests to determine magnesium levels in pastures. If deficient, consider fertilization strategies to improve magnesium availability in the soil and subsequently in forages.
- Stress Management: Minimize stressors on cattle, particularly during critical periods such as calving or adverse weather conditions. Provide adequate shelter, nutrition, and management practices to support overall herd health.
- Regular Monitoring: Monitor cattle regularly for signs of grass tetany, including restlessness, muscle twitching, staggering gait, and convulsions. Early detection allows for prompt intervention and treatment.
- Veterinary Consultation: Work closely with your veterinarian to develop a comprehensive herd health plan tailored to your operation's specific needs. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations for preventing and managing grass tetany.
By implementing these preventive measures and staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk of grass tetany in your cattle herd, ensuring their health and productivity throughout the grazing season.
Stay informed, stay proactive, and together, let’s safeguard the well-being of our livestock.
Best Regards,
Tyler Stehlik
Livestock Nutrition Supplies LLC
(531)333-3150
https://livestocknutritionsupplies.com/shop/
For any questions or further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you provide the best care for your animals. |
