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OSU Veterinarian Dr. Rosslyn Biggs Offers Advice on Preparing Cattle For Bitter Cold Temperatures

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 08:41:27 CST

With severe cold temperatures bearing down on the High Plains, cattle producers need to be prepared to protect their cattle, said Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, OSU beef cattle extension specialist and College of Veterinary Medicine director.

Dr. Biggs took time out from her duties in the barn to speak with Radio Oklahoma Ag Network Farm Director Ron Hays about the impact of the brutal cold weather on our cattle.

We've got to be prepared in advance with hay and feed ready, she said.

And don't forget that water source, she added.

We've got a lot investment in our cattle and the less stress on the animal the better, Biggs said.

Old, thin cattle are more at risk, so it is important to keep them in good condition, she said.

We live in the Oklahoma and we can't forget that wind factor, especially when calving, Biggs said.

Newly born calves need to be up and dry in short order, she said.

Each situation is different. Once that calf is dry it can be out in the weather as a general rule, she said.

It's really critical right after birth when abnormal or difficult birth (Dystocia) could occur.

Anytime we're calving we need to be prepared for dystocia, Biggs said.

Hopefully we've made good genetic selections that make dystocia numbers low, she said.

We need to be ready to respond and get any kind of dystocia in short order, she said.

The cow's engine or rumen needs to be kept healthy and running at full capacity to generate body heat, Biggs said.

We need to be looking at energy and protein requirements and how that is impacted by colder temperatures, Biggs said.

Click on the LISTEN BAR below to hear more of Ron's interview with Rosslyn Biggs.

The Beef buzz is a regular feature heard on radio stations around the region on the Radio Oklahoma Network and is a regular audio feature found on this website as well. Click on the LISTEN BAR below for today's show and check out our archives for older Beef Buzz shows covering the gamut of the beef cattle industry today.


   
   

Ron Hays Beef Buzzes With Dr. Rosslyn Biggs right-click to download mp3

 

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