It's heating up across the country, and the warmer weather can cause unusual cow behaviour, decrease milk production and make the girls more irritable in the shed.
Elevated somatic cell counts, fertility issues, slips, and skin sensitivity can also be symptoms of mycotoxins. During these warmer months, some cows have even been observed acting as though they are hallucinating.
Northland technical representative Rosalie Bakker attributes these symptoms to increased mycotoxins being ingested.
“The effects on cows from heat stress can be severe, and their erratic behaviour can put them at risk. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial,” she says.
Mycotoxins are naturally occurring compounds produced by a range of fungi (endophytes) that live in or on pasture.
During vegetative growth of forage, endophytes tend to be in the base, and at reproductive growth, they move up the stem infecting the seed for the next generation. Bakker says this explains why mycotoxins are more likely to be ingested during reproductive (seed head) growth. If cows are pushed to graze down to lower levels, they will also ingest more mycotoxins.
Adding toxin binders to the cow's feed if it's showing unusual behaviour is one way to relieve symptoms.
“Cows should respond within 7 to 10 days if this is the issue," says Bakker.
In addition to mycotoxins, facial eczema (FE) spore counts can start to appear during Summer.
With the support and guidance of their Nutrinza technical sales representative, many farmers have already added zinc to their blend to manage FE. For those who haven’t, Bakker says zinc supplements are recommended, starting with half rates for the first load before lifting to full rates.
“We offer several options for zinc inclusion, tailored to meet individual preferences and regional needs,” she says.
“If your cows show any signs of distress or changes in their behaviour, don’t wait to act.”
Talk to your local Nutrinza technical sales representative about customising a solution to address regional challenges and ensure adequate inclusion rates that meet your herd’s needs.
NOTE: Always consult your local technical sales representative for the right solution for your herd. Find their details HERE.
