We are expecting extreme cold conditions soon with some part of North Georgia getting into single digits and not getting above freezing for a couple of days. Here are a few tips from Doctor Lawton Stewart to help cattle through this stretch:
Windbreak: This may be the biggest factor to help cattle get through the extreme wind chill we will see on Friday. Cattle will often seek out relief from wind more so than food or water. This can be stands of trees, stacks of round bales, or man-made structures. Placing this close to location of feeding will help ensure they find the windbreak, as well as consume the proper amount of calories.
Bedding: Keeping cattle dry is second most important factor for cattle. After the large amount of rain many have received since Thanksgiving, most are dealing with mud. Move cattle to a dry pasture for the next several days.
Nutrition: Cattle need more calories to maintain their body heat in extreme cold; up to 30% more. Starting at least 1-2 days prior to the expected weather, plan on offering higher quality hay or feeding 4-6 pounds of supplement. If cattle are not already receiving corn, do not start feeding straight corn. I would recommend that the supplement be greater than 70% TDN and 15% CP. A few simple options:
Whole cottonseed
Dried distillers grains
Corn gluten feed
50:50 of corn gluten feed and soybean hulls
33:33:33 of corn gluten feed, corn, and soybean hulls
Commercial feed
Water: Most waterers will freeze in this weather. In parts of north Georgia, it will remain below freezing for more than 48 hours. Be sure to check water sources to be sure cattle have access. For more information on planning for cold weather, please contact your local Extension office.
Thomas County Ag 