Knowing the things that can lead to a high mortality rate within your cows is very important especially if you want to maximize profits. In this article we are going to be discussing about stress and how it may affect your cattle.
Contents
What Is Stress?
Stress is defined as a symptom that results from an environment or situation that is not favorable or normal for an animal. Stress can be a physical or psychological thing in cattle and it needs to be addressed.
Can Cows Die From Stress
Yes, cows can die from stress however, this usually happens when the underlying causes of stress have not yet been addressed. Stress is usually caused by a number of factors and if farmers do not resolve those issues, the cow may remain stressed thus causing it to die. Below we look at some of the most common causes of stress in animals.
Causes Of Stress In Cows
Poor Diet Or Hunger
One of the main causes of stress in cows is usually poor diet or hunger. When cattle are not given the proper feed, their bodies are likely to get stressed which is why farmers should know the proper feed rations to give to their animals. They should also have an idea of the various supplements that they can offer to their cattle. When farmers fail to address poor diet within their cattle there is a good chance that they will die.
Heat
When temperature is greater than 26 degrees Celsius and relative humidity is greater than 70%, there is a good chance that your cows will become stressed out. Therefore, it is essential that you provide your cattle with enough water during this time so that they may be able to cool their bodies down. Unavailability of water during such extreme temperatures may cause your cattle to become stressed and they can later die if nothing is done to manage the situation.
Sickness
When cows are sick or injured they can experience stress. Therefore, it is of paramount importance that farmers try to provide cattle with medication so that they can heal quickly. When cows are injured or sick it’s important that farmers try to administer the proper medication to their livestock or they will continue to get stressed and this may result in death.
Socialization
When cows are overcrowded in a barn, this may cause cows to become stressed. Separation of male and female cows during mating period can also cause stress. Furthermore, if a cow is separated from its calf it can also become stressed. So if either of these social factors are not addressed properly, a cow may become extremely stressed which may lower its feed intake which can then cause it to die.
Effects Of Stress On Cows
Reduced Feed Intake
One of the most common effects of stress on cows is that their feed intake reduces. This is mainly because when they are stressed they tend to lose their appetite. When cattle do not eat they tend to lose weight and this can affect their health.
Decrease In Milk Production
When cows are facing such issues, they tend to produce less milk and this can drag your business backwards. So if you are keeping cattle for commercial reasons its best that you try to find the possible cause of stress in your cows and address it as soon as possible.
Low Energy Levels
Cows that are stressed tend to have low energy levels. This usually happens when they haven’t been consuming any food and as a result, their bodies will become weak.
Decrease In Conception Rates
When cows are stressed the success rate of insemination drops. This means that your cows will have a hard time getting pregnant. In order to prevent this from happening always ensure that your cattle are receiving the proper food and care that they deserve.
Death
When stress is not controlled in a cow it will die. Therefore, it’s important that as a farmer you always monitor the performance of your cattle such that you are able to tell when it is stressed.
How To Tell That A Cow Is Stressed
If you want to identify whether your cow is stressed, here are a few signs you need to take note of.
- Respiratory problems- if your cattle is having breathing problems or is panting with its mouth open there is a chance that it is stressed.
- Severe weight loss.
- Excessive salivation.
- Reduced feed intake.
- Reduced milk production.
- Frequent urination.
- Restlessness and agitation.
- Embryo mortality increase.
- Small and premature calves.
- Lack of coordination.
How To Deal With Stress In Cows
If you notice that your cow is stressed, the first thing that you need to do is to isolate the cow. Once you have done that, you may call a vet to come and take a look at the cow. The vet can then give you medication which you can administer to the animals. Stressed animals need proper care so that they may survive.
Do Cows Get Stressed Easily?
No, cows do not get stressed easily as long as they are being cared for properly. If you have a cow make sure you treat it the right way to as to minimize its chances of succumbing to stress.
Can Cows Drink Dirty Water?
No, cows cannot drink dirty water mainly because it contains bacteria that can make them sick. If you see your cows drinking from water from an unsanitary place its best that you call your vet so that the cows can get checked out. If the water contained pathogens or bacteria your vet will administer the proper medication to them.
Can Cows Jump?
Yes cows can jump however, it’s very rare to find them doing so. Cows usually jump when they are searching for food, water or when they are excited.
Final Words
When stress is not managed properly in cows they may die. So always make sure you take the relevant measures to ensure that your cattle are healthy.
