Awareness of Grass Tetany and Understanding Risks

Awareness of Grass Tetany and Understanding Risks

One of the sure signs that spring is truly here is when it it time to turn your cows out on early and lush grass pastures. This is also the very time to be aware of the potential of grass tetany. Performix Nutrition Systems Animal Nutritionist and Consultant Joe Russo shares more

Russo: "The problem is caused by a drop in blood magnesium level causing the cow to become highly excitable leading to staggering, convulsions and death. The problem is set up by an imbalance of minerals namely high potassium relative to low levels of calcium, magnesium and sodium and that is often the situation we see in that early spring grass as well grazing small grain forages. But it is highly variable so testing your forage and knowing your risk levels are important."

In addition to understand the risks, being proactive about preventing it is critical as Russo explains

Russo: "So to prevent tetany, don' turn out too early. Let that grass get up a little bit and have access to standing dry forage. Also provide plenty of access of a salt based mineral high in calcium and magnesium."

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