The move into summer with high heat and humidity in the Northern Plains is coming quickly following a cool and wet spring. SDSU Extension Veterinarian Dr. Russ Daly says producers need to remember that cattle haven’t got accustomed to those conditions just yet.

He says while keeping all animals cool and protected from the heat and humidity is important, the primary concern is with the heavier feedlot cattle.

Daly says it’s critical that the drinking water needs of the cattle are closely monitored during this period of high humidity and heat.

Daly says when sprinkling cattle to keep them cool, don’t drench them but make sure that water can evaporate because it’s that evaporation which cools the animals.