Heat Stress

PREPARE YOUR CATTLE ON THE DANGERS OF SUMMER TEMPERATURES!

1. Vital cows are less sensitive to heat stress.
Cows that are in good shape, are more resistant to high temperatures and suffer less from heat stress. Therefore, make sure your cattle is in good shape before the start of the spring/summer. Consider forage, but also vitamins and minerals. This can easily be done with the UNO Bolusses (for example: Uno Dry)

2. Feed more during hot days.
Feed multiple times a day to boost the food intake and increase the energy level, by providing Toprium, keep the fermentation level low. Cows in which the fermentation needs to be supported, can be provided with the Indi-Bolus, in case of acidosis the Bi-PH bolus is a good solution.

3. Mineral loss during hot weather
In warm weather, the cows lose a lot of minerals, for example sodium. To add minerals use Salt Lick “Natural”. Provide at least 1 Salt Lick ”Natural” per 15 cows.

4. Unlimited clean and fresh water
Offer your cows unlimited clean and fresh drinking water. Check daily if enough water is available. Also make sure there are enough water ‘spots’. Beware of surface water; this may be less tasty, cows tend to drink less of it.

5. Prevent high cell count levels / udder inflammation
In warm weather, bacteria grow faster, acute mastitis is likely to increase the chance of high cell count levels. Therefore, take care of the hygiene in the stable. Use Stal Strooi Plus in the boxes for extra hygiene. Treat the cows extra well, ensure a clean teat before connecting the teat cup. Use Maxi Udderpaper Large while pretreating. 

6. Stress from 21 degrees
Cows like temperatures between 5 and 18 ° C. Heat stress starts about 21 ° C. So make sure to take action on time. For example, cows must have access to shelter, use all ventilation options in the stable that are available.

7. Siesta grazing
Bring cows inside during the hottest part of the day.

8. Actively cool the cows
Cooling with water combined with mechanical ventilation works well with high temperatures above 30 degrees.