Weekly Livestock-Equine News: July 7, 2025
US ranchers moving to increase cattle supplies from a seven-decade low
U.S. ranchers are moving to expand their herds, according to top producer JBS NV. The move is backed up by a recent reduction in the number of female cows being sent to slaughter, which indicates more of them are being held for procreation. Still, it will take years for cattle supplies to recover, with no meaningful increase expected before 2027.
New video series targets foreign animal disease preparedness
A new video series by University of Vermont Research Professor and Project Director Julie Smith provides answers for farm producers and industry allies about preventing and responding to foreign animal disease outbreaks. Topics include: farm biosecurity plans, the purpose of control areas and quarantines during an outbreak, and mapping out strategies to stop or limit disease spread.
Hazards of heat for cattle
High temperatures and high humidity are not an ideal combination for cattle, says Erin Laborie, Nebraska Extension educator. The range of temperatures in which cattle do not use additional energy to maintain core body temperature, referred to as the thermoneutral zone, generally goes from 32°F to 75°F. At higher temperatures, cattle attempt to dissipate heat, leading to panting and elevated respiration and heart rate, and can lead to death.
U Missouri vets succeed with novel approach for young horse with severe tetanus
University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center veterinarians placed an indwelling intrathecal catheter to deliver antitoxin to a young horse with severe tetanus, finding that smaller, more controlled doses helped avoid severe reactions that are noted in initial large injections. Over six treatments her stiffness eased, the tension left her face, and she began to walk, eat and trot again.
Animal health panel calls for overhaul of FDA reviews for medications and food
An expert panel convened by the FDA released a report, “Transforming Animal Health in the U.S. for the 21st Century,” recommending ways to update current laws and regulatory authorities governing animal health and nutrition. “Reimagining the regulatory review processes to minimize costs and compress timeframes will greatly help those who own and care for animals,” the panel concluded.
Horse owners can learn to identify behaviors of gastric disease
University of Pennsylvania researchers suggest horse owners and caretakers can learn to reliably recognize specific behavioral patterns — called signature behaviors — in horses with gastric disease. Behaviors typically include frequent deep abdominal stretches, nuzzling, swatting, nipping, and gazing focused on the abdomen just behind the elbow. Confirming a diagnosis requires gastroscopy.
