DocTalk Ep 577 - Understanding and Managing Heat Stress in Cattle with Dr. Dan Thomson

Today’s episode focuses on heat stress in cattle. Dr. Thomson covers key aspects including the thermal heat index (THI) and the thermal heat load index (THLI), explaining how temperature, humidity, and wind speed affect cattle.
Cattle's thermal neutral zone is between 59 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Mild stress occurs between 72 and 78 degrees, heat stress between 78 and 84 degrees, and extreme danger above 98 degrees. Dr. Thompson emphasizes the importance of night cooling to prevent accumulated heat load.
Clinical signs of heat stress include hovering around water, seeking shade, and panting. Prevention methods include providing shade, increasing airflow, and ensuring adequate water tank space. For treatment, cooling cattle with water and possibly using dexamethasone under veterinary guidance are recommended.
Dr. Thomson highlights the USDA app for predicting heat stress events and reiterates the importance of proactive measures like knocking down weeds and prioritizing high-risk cattle, especially black-hided, finished cattle.
#doctalk #beefproduction #cattle #veterinarymedicine

[@Bravosierra6]

EXCELLENT INFO! Thanks