“Cattle producers will be happy to see green grass this spring, but early lush growth may lead to grass tetany if cattle are not managed properly,” says Patrick Davis MU Extension Livestock Field Specialist. Grass tetany arises from a cattle mineral imbalance, so Davis urges cattle producers to use management strategies to reduce the incidence in their cattle operation.
“Grass tetany symptoms result from magnesium deficiency in cattle,” says Davis. Lush forage has a combination of high potassium and low sodium which reduces animal absorption and use of magnesium. Although magnesium deficiency leads to grass tetany symptoms, there is also evidence that sodium deficiency plays a role. Therefore, it is important that cattle are on a proper free choice mineral, trace mineral and vitamin supplement as they enter the grazing season. Furthermore, at least 30 days prior to green up Davis urges cattle producers to supply their cattle with a high magnesium (12% to 14% magnesium oxide) mineral. These strategies will help reduce cattle herd incidence of grass tetany.
“Cattle with reduced ability to mobilize bone magnesium during early lactation are more likely to experience grass tetany,” says Davis. Milk production is a big drain on magnesium and older early lactation cows have reduced ability to mobilize bone magnesium which makes them more susceptible to grass tetany. Davis urges cattle producers to pay close attention to these cows, watch for signs of grass tetany, and if symptoms are seen, treatment can be administered to save the cow.
“Cattle grass tetany symptoms include unusual behavior, muscle tremors, frequent urination, staggers, convulsions, and if not treated death,” says Davis. Davis urges cattle producers to work with their veterinarian to develop a treatment plan to deal with grass tetany in their cattle herd. Therefore, if grass tetany arises cattle producers can act swiftly to implement the plan and hopefully save the cow.
“Grass tetany can cause negative impacts to your cattle operation,” says Davis. However, your cattle operation is less likely to be affected if you use these management strategies. For more information contact your local MU Extension Livestock Field Specialist.
