By Dr. Aimee N. Hafla, Ph.D., P.A.S. As we get closer to spring and begin to think about green grass and grazing cattle, it is a good time to evaluate your mineral program. It takes more than just energy and protein to ensure optimal health and performance of beef cattle. Vitamins and minerals are required […]
By Dr. Dave Jones, Ph.D., P.A.S. Nitrates and ammonia can be found in forages and either one or both can reduce animal productivity. The oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is decreased when nitrates bind to the hemoglobin, forming methemoglobin. Low blood oxygen inhibits cellular and energy metabolism by the cells. Ammonia increases blood pH, can […]
What You Don’t See Can Hurt Cattle Performance By Dr. Aimee Hafla, Ph.D., PAS Abscesses occurring on the livers of cattle are the primary cause of liver condemnation at the packing plant and result in an estimated loss of up to $64 million annually for the beef industry in the United States (Herrick et al., 2017). […]
By Dr. James C. Coomer, Ph.D., PAS There appears to be significant winterkill on alfalfa stands throughout the upper Midwest this year due to the mild winter and lack of snow cover to protect the plants. If you are among those experiencing significant winterkill on your alfalfa crop then you are probably asking the question […]
By Dr. Gene P. Gengelbach, Ph.D., PAS There has been a great deal of concern lately about mycotoxins in the 2016 grain and forage crops. Many producers are surprised because, in many cases, yields were good and there is no visible mold in the corn or corn silage. This article will discuss what mycotoxins are, […]
By Grace Thomas, M.Agr.Sc. P.A.S. Feeding colostrum is the single most important management factor in successful calf rearing. The antibodies present in the colostrum are transferred across the small intestine of the calf. This passive transfer provides short-term protection to the calf, giving it time to build its immune system and antibodies. Colostrum is the […]
By Dr. Aimee Hafla, Ph.D., P.A.S. January 1, 2017, marks a turning point for the U.S. livestock industry regarding the acquisition and handling of antibiotics used in feed and water. Amendments to the existing Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) will require veterinarian oversight of many commonly used antibiotics that have previously been available over-the-counter and the […]