United States-Cattle after bush fires.

UNITED STATES-BUSH FIRES.

The recent wild fires in the Southern Plains have garnered a lot of national media attention due to the destruction of homes and properties. Cattle producers have not been immune to the costly devastation of the out-of-control grass and brush fires. Close monitoring and appropriate care of the cattle that were exposed to either fire or smoke may improve the situation by preventing further losses. Contact your local veterinarian for prognosis of the severity of the damage to the cattle and discuss treatment of salvageable animals.

Cattle that were directly in the path of a wild fire may have burns on the extremities such as feet, ears, underbellies, udders, and scrotums of bulls. Also there may be swollen lips, eyelids, and damaged eye cornea tissue. Badly damaged corneas may take weeks to heal whereas the swollen lips and eyelids make noted improvement in 48 hours. Feet are often among the most common injuries from the rapidly moving grass fires. Separation of the coronary band from the hoof is often a result of burning. Seldom do the hooves slough as some that appear quite loose, do heal normally.

Smoke can move for miles and cattle that were not directly in the pastures that were burned may still be affected. Ranchers are encouraged to be observant of cattle and other livestock for the next 4 to 6 weeks that may have been down wind of a fire. Inhalation of dense smoke causes immediate irritation to the lining of the respiratory system, including nasal passages, trachea, and lungs. These irritations may take weeks to heal. During this time, the cattle may be more vulnerable to secondary complications, such as bovine respiratory diseases. Watch for signs of coughing, depression, or labored breathing.

Ranchers need to be aware that fires may uncover hazards, such as old car batteries, lead pipes, or used petroleum products to which curious cattle gain access. An example would be a destroyed storage building.

During the recovery phase for affected cattle, be certain that they have adequate ventilation. Avoid penning them in a poorly ventilated barn. Make certain that adequate fresh water is available at all times and avoid feeding dusty or moldy feeds that could further aggravate the respiratory insult. Cattle that have burned and sore feet will need feed and water in close proximity so that they do not have to travel far for those nutrients.