The cause of grass tetany (also called grass staggers, milk tetany, lactation tetany, magnesium tetany, winter tetany, wheat pasture poisoning, crested wheatgrass poisoning, barley poisoning) has been poorly understood, yet death losses cost producers millions of dollars.

Getting the highest value for your calves isn’t just about the things you’re doing right. It’s also based upon what you’re not trying at all.

We often approach every calving season by addressing parts of the management or farm puzzle. And there is value in doing that.

Respiratory problems in cattle include diphtheria, the infection or inflammation of vocal folds of the larynx (voice box) at the back of the throat.

Spring calving in the Midwest has its fair share of unfortunate weather events. From the 2019 bomb cyclone to the 2021 polar vortex, cattle producers should not be surprised when the weather forecasts the worst.

In the depth of winter, most of us yearn for the warm, sunny days of spring and the nice green grass that follows. I suspect our cattle tend to enjoy that time of year better as well – but in the meantime, late-term pregnant cows have a major task ahead of them before this “greenup” occurs.

Winter is here, but it will not be long before the snow and ice melt away and pastures start to green up and become lush. Springtime can bring a host of challenges for beef cattle.

While we all hope that every dam will claim her calf and provide it with what it needs to thrive, the reality is that some will not.