SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Southeastern South Dakota and northwestern Iowa have been dealing with devastating flooding.
Along with the flooding and post-flooding, cattle are prone to health problems, according to the Iowa State University (ISU) Extension and Outreach. Cattle are at risk for numerous health challenges including malnutrition, respiratory disease, ruminal acidosis, poisoning and more, ISU extension beef specialist Chris Clark said in an ISU news release.
Flood frustrations on McCook Lake
“Stress can cause immunosuppression and aspiration of water can cause respiratory disease,” Clark said in a news release.
“Housing and feeding systems are often damaged or destroyed and getting cattle back on feed while protecting rumen health can be challenging,” Clark said in the release.
Access to clean water for cattle to drink may be limited, which can lead to dehydration. Impure water can cause poisoning and disease.
Cattle should be moved to higher ground or out to an area not affected by flooding to allow for their coat to dry and provide them an area to rest. Clean water and quality feed is crucial.