Cattle prone to post-flood health problems

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Southeastern South Dakota and northwestern Iowa have been dealing with devastating flooding.

Along with the flooding and post-flooding, cattle are prone to health problems, according to the Iowa State University (ISU) Extension and Outreach. Cattle are at risk for numerous health challenges including malnutrition, respiratory disease, ruminal acidosis, poisoning and more, ISU extension beef specialist Chris Clark said in an ISU news release.

“Stress can cause immunosuppression and aspiration of water can cause respiratory disease,” Clark said in a news release.

“Housing and feeding systems are often damaged or destroyed and getting cattle back on feed while protecting rumen health can be challenging,” Clark said in the release.

Access to clean water for cattle to drink may be limited, which can lead to dehydration. Impure water can cause poisoning and disease.

Cattle should be moved to higher ground or out to an area not affected by flooding to allow for their coat to dry and provide them an area to rest. Clean water and quality feed is crucial.

For pairs, if possible get them to a pasture with good quality grass hay. More feed adaptation information.

If pairs have been separated, this can cause stress on both and the calves can quickly become malnourished from a lack of access to milk. Reuniting the cow and calf quickly is crucial.

Cattle producers should also be aware of stray voltage that could cause electrocution. After the flood waters recede, contaminants can be left behind that can cause health problems.

Flooding disaster takes a toll on cattle producers livelihood and producers may need assistance for funding of losses, feed, livestock housing and manual labor. Contact the local Farm Service Agency in the area for financial assistance.

Flooding also causes stress and anxiety on people. Individuals can reach out someone in South Dakota call 211 or call the Avera Farm and Rural Stress Hotline at 1-800-691-4336. In Iowa producers can contact the Iowa Hotline at 1-800-447-1985.

For more flood information and resources in South Dakota. In Iowa: Iowa Beef Center flood resources page and this ISU extension flood page.

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