People around the world wait for summer to enjoy outdoor activities. It creates an ideal mood for going to the beach, taking a walk with your love, or biking. All outdoor activities sound very dreamy until the temperature starts to rise, and summer gets more unbearable with every passing day.
Humans have the luxury of running into air-conditioned rooms or finding shade when the sun is too harsh. However, farm animals do not have this luxury. They need a lot of help from the farm owners to ensure their health and safety through the summer season.
Of course, summer is also the season to welcome new calves and yearlings. So, the work of farm owners increases manifold in summer. On the one hand, they have to protect their animals from dehydration; on the other, they need to prepare to save the young stock from stunting.
Yes, everything may sound overwhelming now, but these essential tips can help you manage your farm smoothly during summer.
1. Keep them Hydrated
Fresh water may always be one of the biggest concerns for farm owners. In winter, there is a fear of water freezing, and in summer, it seems that no amount of water is enough to quench the thirst of the cattle. According to research, every cattle needs 8-12 gallons of water on an average day.
However, the water intake of cattle can increase up to 35 gallons a day in the summer heat. If your cattle do not have access to fresh water, there is a risk of severe dehydration that can lead to other problems and even death.
Always remember that cows that produce more milk will need more water throughout the day. Make sure that there is sufficient partition so that every animal has access to clean drinking water.
2. Make Dietary Changes
Summers can bring about a lot of medical issues for you and your cattle. One of the most prominent issues in cattle during winter is an upset stomach. When cows have upset stomachs, it can lead to weakness, dehydration, and general discomfort for them.
Therefore, a lot of dietary changes need to be made in the diet of your cattle. Make hay feeders your best friends to ensure that all your cattle have access to their feed. To avoid upset stomachs, you must ensure that their fat intake does not go above 6.5%.
When the days get too hot, you can use roughage to avoid digestive problems. You can also add potassium to their diet to increase tolerance.
But beware of making sudden dietary changes for your cattle. Consider getting help from a local veterinarian to ensure your cattle stays healthy. For example, if you live in Seattle, you can contact a veterinary clinic seattle to get valuable advice.
3. Use Sprinklers
Sometimes, heat can get out of hand, and water cannot be enough for your cattle to beat the intense summer heat. When the barns get overheated, it can result in stress and sickness among animals. Sprinklers in your barn accompanied by fans can make a huge difference.
Once the cows are soaked, it can allow fans to evaporate the water and cool the animals. But make sure that sprinklers are placed away from the beds to avoid environmental mastitis.