Wildfire Smoke and Livestock:
Signs and Helpful Tips
You can smell it rolling in as the skies turn grey, and the air feels heavy.
Smoke from wildfires has been spreading across parts of the Midwest making the simple task of breathing difficult. People are told to limit exposure due to health risks, but what about our livestock who can’t escape the smoky air? For pets and livestock, the poor air quality affects them just as it does people. Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can cause respiratory problems in people and animals alike. Knowing the signs of smoke irritation in livestock and how to protect them is crucial.
Smoke Irritation Signs :
- Coughing, struggling to breathe (open-mouth breathing, wheezing)
- Watery or irritated eyes
- Swelling around throat or mouth
- Runny nose
- Rapid breathing
- Fatigue/weakness
- Stumbling, trouble walking
- Off feed and/or drinking less
Tips for Smoke Stressed Livestock:
- Limit exercise when smoke is visible. Exercise increases respiratory rate which means they are pulling more contaminated air into their lungs than normal. This will increase their exposure to the fine smoke particulate which could lead to respiratory issues in the future.
- Avoid working livestock during days with poor air quality. Like exercise, working livestock can increase respiratory rate and add stress on to them during an already physiologically stressful time. If possible, hold off on anything that may increase stress during this time.
- If livestock must be handled or transported during this time, make sure to give them time to recuperate. Provide plenty of fresh clean water, keep feed fresh, consider the use of products designed for stressed animals.
- Keep dust down as much as possible by misting livestock holding areas. Dust can cause respiratory issues on a good day, but on a smoky one it compounds the stress on their system.
- If you notice your livestock is still struggling even after the smoke clears, contact your veterinarian for further assistance.