Smith County Agriculture News – By Katie Martin, Smith County Extension Agent
As Halloween approaches, witches and ghosts aren’t the only things you should be on the lookout for. If you’re a livestock owner, there are several toxic plants that cause problems in the fall that are even spookier!
As Extension Agents, we love nothing more than getting to talk with producers, make farm visits, and provide resources. Over the last couple of weeks, toxic plants resulting in livestock deaths have been a hot topic of conversation. Two common threats livestock producers should be aware of this time of year are Perilla Mint and acorns.
Perilla Mint causes more cattle deaths in Tennessee than any other toxic plant. It’s poisonous to cattle, small ruminants like sheep and goats, and horses. Plants can often be found in semi-shaded spots like fence lines, farm structures, and edges of wooded areas. Cattle typically will not feed on these toxic weeds unless other forages are in short supply, so ensure animals have access to sufficient feed during late summer and early fall. Control of Perilla Mint is most effective from late April to early June. Mowing before seed is produced can also help manage further spread of this toxic weed.
While acorns are great for wildlife, they can pose a significant risk to cattle. If acorns are overconsumed, kidney failure and death can be the result. Feeder calves from 400 to 700 lbs. seem to be especially susceptible, but acorns can also pose a problem for cows, causing malformed calves and decreased milk production for fall-calving cows.
Symptoms of acorn poisoning can include abdominal pain, excessive thirst, frequent urination, lack of appetite, a thin rapid pulse, and rough hair coat. While typically, acorns are not a favorite food for most cattle, occasionally there are cows that gorge themselves on them. If possible, keep cattle away from acorns by removing oak trees, fencing wooded areas out, or moving cattle to other pastures in the fall.
If we can be of assistance when it comes to managing toxic weeds or any other livestock and forage topic, contact the UT Extension office at 615-735-2900, or check out our library of publications at smith.tennessee.edu.
