Groans when laying down

[Down in Dixie]

Maybe the type of grass they're eating? Could the grass be drought stressed and causing a digestive issue.

They are on Dallis, Bahia, and Bermuda is the majority of it. I do have tall fescue but there isn't much of it this time of year.

 

[Down in Dixie]

That cow does not look good. Can you take her temp?

I don't have a way to take her temp. Probably should invest in that. They both act normal and fine when standing. Only this sometimes when they are laying down.

 

[BrisketLover4ever]

I have a steer I am feeding out and every time he lays down to rest he keeps his head up and groans a little. He burps often too when he does this. He has been doing this for over a month and can't figure out why. Tried to put a video but maybe 20 seconds is too long. I will try and get a shorter video to post View attachment 48557

It sounds like your steer might be experiencing some discomfort, possibly related to his digestive system. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Bloat: One possibility is that your steer might be dealing with bloat, a condition where the stomach fills with gas. This could explain the frequent burping and the groaning when he lies down. Bloat can be serious and sometimes even life-threatening if not addressed.

2. Acidosis: If your steer is on a high-grain diet, he might be at risk of acidosis, which is caused by an imbalance in the stomach acids. This can lead to discomfort, bloating, and changes in behavior like what you're describing.

3. Pain or Discomfort: The fact that he keeps his head up while lying down might indicate that he's uncomfortable in that position. This could be related to the digestive issues mentioned or something else like respiratory problems or even arthritis.

4. Rumen Health: If his rumen (the first stomach) is not functioning properly, he might have trouble processing his food, leading to gas buildup and discomfort.

What You Can Do:

- Check His Diet: Ensure he's getting enough roughage (like hay) and not too much grain, as this can help prevent bloat and acidosis.

- Observe His Behavior: Watch for other symptoms like a decrease in appetite, changes in manure, or lethargy.

- Consult a Veterinarian: Given that this has been going on for over a month, it might be a good idea to have a vet check him out. They can perform a physical exam and possibly run tests to determine the exact cause.

Taking action now can help prevent the problem from getting worse and ensure your steer stays healthy.

 

[TCRanch]

I don't have a way to take her temp. Probably should invest in that. They both act normal and fine when standing. Only this sometimes when they are laying down.

How docile are your cattle? Sometimes you have to think outside the box. My girls are used to me around them and love a good scratch. I've taken temps in the pasture numerous times by dumping some cubes then scratching along the lower back, on the tailhead and down the tail. It feels so dang good they generally gyrate their butt a little and the tail almost always goes up and slightly to the side. Bullseye! I just pop in the thermometer, keep scratching, they're still concentrating on the feel-good/cubes combo and in less than 30 seconds with a rapid read digital thermometer I picked up at Walmart, I have an accurate temp and can proceed accordingly. I've even done it with bulls.

Plan B: use a halter and rig panels for a makeshift chute.

 

[alacowman1]

Put a string on it

 

[Down in Dixie]

This is her earlier today. She is very easy going. I will see if my wife will pick up a thermometer for cattle use only tomorrow when she goes into town.

 

[alacowman1]

She looks normal ..

 

[kenny thomas]

Its hot, humid, she is fat. Put a fat man out in the pasture and he would breathe hard too.