Frigid weather, ice, and snow are putting Missouri cattle at risk. Temperatures below zero degrees Fahrenheit are predicted, and the wind chill factor will be much lower in many parts of Missouri this week.

As temperatures drop, producers need to ensure their cattle are kept safe in the harsh weather, advises Eric Bailey, state beef nutritionist at the University of Missouri Extension.

When the temperature is below the lower critical temperature (LCT), a cow in adequate body condition with a heavy winter coat will use energy to maintain body temperature, Bailey explains. When wind chill dips below 19 F, cattle need extra energy to keep warm. They will eat more and need higher-quality feed to compensate for the cold.

“If cattle are still grazing stockpiled tall fescue, producers should consider feeding 0.5% of their body weight per day in supplement to provide extra energy during the extreme cold,” Bailey recommends. “For a 1,200-pound beef cow, that’s 6 pounds of supplement each day. If feeding hay, use higher-quality hay than average and consider offering the same amount of supplement.”

Providing bedding or a dry place for cattle to lie down is very important in cold weather. Bulls can sustain long-term damage to fertility if forced to lie on frozen ground. Giving cattle a place to get out of the wind can also help them stay warm.

Lastly, Bailey urges producers to keep waterers thawed as much as possible This can be difficult, especially in extreme temperatures. Mature beef cattle require up to 30 gallons of water per day.

Following these guidelines will help ensure the safety of cattle so they can continue to produce high-quality beef.