Dairy Cattle

Importance of Dry Matter in Beef Cattle Diets

MF3675

This publication outlines what dry matter is, how the terms DM and as-fed (AF) are determined, the appropriate usage of these terms, and examples of the typical DM of feedstuffs. Although this publication is written regarding beef cattle nutrition, the fundamentals discussed apply to feeding scenarios for dairy cattle and small ruminants, in addition to any species in which feedstuff DM content varies. Color, four pages.

Published Date: Mar 2025

Measuring the Effects of Dry Matter in Beef Cattle

by Jason M. Warner Brandon J. Fraser

MF3676

This publication covers how dry matter is determined on the farm or ranch, how variation in DM influences the composition of a diet, and the implications DM can have on the economics of a nutrition program. Color, 4 pages.

Published Date: Mar 2025

Coccidiosis

by A. J. Tarpoff

MF2209

Coccidiosis is an intestinal disease caused by protozoa, primarily affecting cattle aged 1 month to 1 year, though all ages can be infected. The disease is caused by Eimeria species, with Eimeria bovis and Eimeria zuernii being the most common. The protozoa invade intestinal cells, multiply rapidly, and cause cell rupture. The final stage, oocysts, are shed in feces and are highly resistant to environmental stress. Oocysts contaminate feed and water, and once ingested by other animals, the life cycle restarts. Clinical signs often appear under stress conditions, such as weather changes or overcrowding, but many infected cattle show no symptoms. 2 pages, color.

Revision Date: Sep 2024

Livestock Challenge: Ruminants!

by Patsy Maddy

4H1168

How many stomachs do cattle, sheep and goats have? These animals have an amazing stomach system that converts forages into milk and meat! Learn all about what a ruminant is, the different parts of the digestive system and function of each stomach chamber while building a rumen in your own kitchen! 14 pages, color.

Published Date: Dec 2021

How Much Gas Do Beef or Dairy Cattle Produce?

by Zifei Liu

MF3185

Beef and dairy cattle operations produce greenhouse gas emissions from feed digestion and manure decomposition. Producers need to be aware of what gases are emitted and why they are of concern so they can take steps to control and counteract these emissions. 4-page, color.

Published Date: Apr 2015

Carbon Footprint of Livestock Production

by Zifei Liu

MF3180

Livestock producers can evaluate the carbon footprint of their production and make environmentally responsible choices. A number of factors influencing carbon emissions are discussed as well as ways to operate facilities efficiently and responsibly. 4-page, color.

Published Date: Feb 2015

Fan Placement and Heat Stress Abatement in Four-row Freestall Barns

by Michael J. Brouk John F. Smith Joseph P. Harner III

EP110

Heat stress in freestall barns should be a major concern for dairy producers and dairy industry advisors. Provide protection from solar radiation and maximize evaporative losses from skin.

Published Date: Nov 2001

Special Needs Facilities: Recommendations for housing for pregnant, lactating and sick cows

by John F. Smith Joseph P. Harner III Michael J. Brouk

EP100

Tips on planning and design using examples based on a 2,400 lactating cow dairy with freestall housing configured in 4-row barns.

Published Date: Jul 2001

Fan Selection and Maintenance

by Joseph P. Harner III James P Murphy Michael J. Brouk

EP75

Reducing heat stress in dairy herds with fans to enhance the evaporation of moisture from a cow’s back. Emphasizes fan selection based on performance.

Published Date: Mar 2001

Corn Gluten Feed: Composition and Feeding Value for Beef and Dairy Cattle

by Dale A. Blasi Michael J. Brouk

MF2488

Corn gluten feed (CGF) is a by-product of the wet milling process. Wet or dry CGF represents an excellent feedstuff in the cattle industries. 16 p.

Published Date: Feb 2001

Freestall Barn Design and Cooling Systems

by Michael J. Brouk John F. Smith Joseph P. Harner III

EP76

Covers heat stress abatement in dairy cows through proper barn orientation, air exchange and supplemental cooling

Published Date: Feb 2001

Keeping Cows Cool, Where Do I Start?

by John F. Smith Joseph P. Harner III Michael J. Brouk

EP77

Heat stress effects on dairy cows include: increased water intake, decrease in dry matter intake, slower rate of feed passage,less milk production and poor reproductive performance.

Published Date: Feb 2001