Farm & Ranch
Foot Rot in Cattle
By Barry Whitworth, DVM
The Monthly Precipitation Outlook found at the Mesonet website (https://www.mesonet.org) is predicting above normal chances for precipitation for the month of June for most of the area. Many areas have received much needed rain in the past few weeks. With moist conditions, producers should be observing their cattle for foot rot.
Foot rot is caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum subspecies necrophorum and sometimes other bacteria are involved (Porphyromonas levii, Prevotella intermedia, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Truperella pyogenes). These bacteria are normal inhabitants of the digestive tract of cattle and consequently in the environment. The problem arises when the bacteria enter the tissue of the foot through a break in the skin. The damage to the skin may be from puncture wounds or abrasions or continuous exposure to wet conditions which softens the skin. Once the bacteria gains entry into the tissue, it multiplies and releases toxins that damage tissue. If left unchecked, the bacteria invade deeper structures in the foot. This may result in permanent problems and may shorten the life of the cow.
Diagnosis of foot rot begins with a thorough examination of the foot. Foot rot lesions usually infect both claws, so if only one claw is infected, the problem is not likely foot rot. Producers should look for signs of swelling between the toes as well as redness or necrotic tissue. Also, observe for separation of the skin at the hoof wall. Most cases of foot rot will have a foul spelling odor. The foot may feel warm to the touch. This distinguishes foot rot from fescue foot which is cold to the touch. Cows may have a fever and refuse to eat. Most cows are reluctant to bear weight on the infected foot due to pain.
To read more, pick up a copy of the July issue of NTFR Magazine. To subscribe call 940-872-5922.
By Jared Groce
Demand remains strong for some properties, while the number of buyers for others has dropped. We are seeing a decrease in the demand for lower price point homes, with increased demand for raw land over $1,000,000. There is still a lot of people with 1031 money who are trying to defer capital gains taxes, and they have a limited amount of time to get that money spent.
The higher interest rates are keeping first-time home buyers on the sidelines, as well as folks who need to borrow a lot of the money to buy and build on land.
To read more, pick up a copy of the September issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
Noble Research Institute’s inaugural two-day training event, Essentials of Regenerative Ranching, brought together farmers and ranchers who are eager to improve the health of their land, livestock, and livelihood.
This first delivery of the course, conducted July 11-12, 2023, at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas, provided producers with an immersive experience that combined facilitator-led classroom learning with hands-on activities in the field, as well as ample opportunities for ranchers to connect and problem-solve with their peers.
For more, pick up a copy of the September issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
By Dani Blackburn, [email protected]
There might be no greater way to impact the world than through the agricultural industry. How we grow our food, what we eat, and our future all depend on those farmers, ranchers, and professionals working tirelessly to ensure the industry is at its best.
The determination of many countless individuals can lead to significant progress within agriculture. One person who has spent decades making a difference via agricultural education while encouraging a balance of integration and practicality is Dr. Ron Gill, Texas A&M professor and Extension livestock specialist and associate department head for Extension.
To read more, pick up a copy of the September issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
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