Getting around the cattle this week, managed to notice a few first calf heifers looking a bit off. Going through the mob we picked out half a dozen or so that we thought were not up to scratch and were pretty surprised by the result.

Have had similar cases of this particular infection years ago, but it looks like there could be another season coming up. The new word is “Theileriosis” which basically means the introduction of intra-cellular protozoa called “Theileria”.

First signs of this affecting the cattle is a rapid loss in condition, frothy nasal discharge, increased respiratory rate and diarrhoea. The high temperature and dehydration naturally follows with the cattle becoming extremely weak.

This particular protozoa is carried by ticks and has the effect of destroying the oxygen carrying ability of the red blood cells. Severe cases can cause death by renal failure and at worst, severe malnutrition and abortion.

This particular parasite is now being recognised by the Department of Agriculture and scientific development of some type of cure has started. If you notice any cattle like this in your herd over the next couple of months, don’t hesitate to give your local or district vet a call.

As we enter the tough months of winter, even with the winds starting to dry the country out, our biggest problem from now to Spring is going to be the lack of nutrition in our feed. For those who planted Winter crops, with plenty of protein value, certainly will reap the benefits of it.

The importance of nutrition, especially for first calf heifers, can certainly not be underestimated. Things like, cleaning up of after birth, and the ability to milk are all based on the health of the mother.

The biggest problem we have as producers is certainly justifying cost of feed supplements, quality pasture and quality hay with the bottom line, as market prices leave a very slim margin.

The offset of this of course, is especially with core breeders is that they require good management to grow them into their full potential.
The importance of management over this period will be realised if we have a good spring, as the cattle will be that far in front as the season breaks.