Farmers are facing heightened seasonal challenges in protecting livestock health following a rollercoaster of weather conditions that could increase disease risk among housed stock.

The knock-on effects of last summer’s dry conditions on forage supply and silage quality, combined with warmer, damp periods broken by sudden cold snaps and snow, has created the perfect storm for respiratory infections to thrive in livestock this winter.

Dr Richard Wynn, Head of Technical at Crystalyx UK says that with forecast conditions remaining hugely variable, maintaining respiratory health for housed cattle is a priority.

"The combination of damp, cold weather and confined housing can create a perfect breeding ground for pathogens particularly respiratory illnesses like pneumonia,” he says.

Farmers across the country went into winter with tight forage supplies, with many dipping into stocks earlier than planned. Bought-in feed or late-cut autumn silage will be the way many stretch winter rations, but Dr Wynn says this could lead to rations that are unintendedly lower in dry matter and sugars.

“If the ration isn’t quite balanced, levels of immunity can be sub-optimal, leaving calves especially vulnerable.

“It’s at times like these that it can be worth supplementing the ration, to help the transition from feeding outdoors to indoors for your animals,” he advises.

Crystalyx Easy Breather is a simple, effective tool to help manage the risk of respiratory challenges, combining a unique blend of mannon oligosaccharides (MOS) and β glucans to help bind harmful pathogens in the gut to support a strong immune system.

According to AHDB, pneumonia in calves costs the UK cattle industry over £50 million every year, with each case costing farmers between £30–£80*, while slower growth and reduced feed conversion adds further pressure on farm profits.

Dr Wynn states that while supplementation is not a replacement for good management practices, when used appropriately it can support livestock in coping with environmental stressors to support overall health and performance.

“Using a low-moisture, high-energy molasses lick can stimulate starter feed intake,” he says.

“For very young calves, this helps to develop the rumen earlier, make better use of available forage and take in the nutrients they need to cope with respiratory challenges.

“For farmers grappling with the difficulties of the changing weather and forage quality, a feed lick that contains natural menthol and eucalyptus oils can support animals in being more relaxed and provide a proactive approach for housed livestock."