Flooding Could Cause More Headaches for Cattle Producers

First posted on 04-04-2008

According to the University of Arkansas Agricultural Extension, floodwaters experienced by the state in recent weeks may bring additional troubles for area farmers even after the waters recede.

Flooding can uncover diseases and parasites that are potentially deadly to cattle.

“When the soil is disturbed, such as in a flood, cattle can ingest the spores and possibly contract one of the diseases,” said Dr. Tom Troxel, extension animal science professor/associate department head-animal science with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.

Blackleg and anthrax spores are of particular concern. Blackleg can strike cattle at a young age and is fatal in virtually all cases of unvaccinated animals.

“Anthrax, another soil-borne disease, is a disease that nobody likes to take about,” Troxel said. “Typically, anthrax isn’t a disease of real concern in Arkansas, but occurrences of anthrax can be increased by warm weather with heavy rainfall where animals are confined to a small area.”

Floods may also give rise to parasites like liver flukes and organisms that cause leptospirosis.

“Treating for internal parasites is critical at this time of year because so many of the cows are nursing calves and rebreeding,” Troxel warned. “Beef cattle producers may have to deworm cattle more frequently than normal because of flooding.”

He added that getting fresh, clean hay to stranded cattle was essential in maintaining their digestive systems. He also said that those raising cattle should consult with their veterinarians quickly to determine if and which vaccines need to be administered.

“The flooding of 2008 will go down in Arkansas history as one of the most severe floods in history,” he said. “The full impact of the 2008 flood won’t be fully assessed until the waters recede.”