How to Manage Cattle During Drought With Limited Feed

I keep a close eye out for animals losing condition quickly, cows with weak or dying calves, abortions, animals that lie down and struggle to get up, sunken eyes and dull coats, cattle eating soil, bones, or wood, which suggests mineral deficiency, signs of poisoning after eating unusual plants, and diarrhoea or other illness. Call your vet early. Cheap prevention beats expensive rescue.

What I would do differently if I started today

I would destock earlier and with less guilt. Every drought I have lived through, the animals I sold first earned me more than the ones I held on to.

I would plant fodder trees and make hay and silage in good years, as insurance for bad ones.

I would build a feed reserve, even a small one, before every dry season.

I would secure a second water source.

I would keep my herd size tied to what the land can carry in a poor year, not a good one.

And I would keep my records, so that I could make decisions with numbers and not fear.

Frequently asked questions

How soon should I start selling cattle in a drought?
As early as the signs point to a shortage, ideally before animals lose condition and before prices fall. Waiting until cattle are thin leaves you with weaker animals and lower prices.

Which cattle should I keep during a drought?
Keep your best breeding cows, good young heifers, and your best bull. Sell old, poor-performing, and surplus animals first.

What is the cheapest way to feed cattle in a drought?
Use crop residues, stored hay, and safe browse from trees as the base, and add a small amount of protein supplement, minerals, and salt. Matching supplement to what is missing gives the best return per unit of money.

Can I feed cattle on cactus or other unusual plants?
Some farmers do, but it needs care. Spines, toxins, and digestive trouble are real risks. Ask your livestock officer or vet which plants are safe and how to prepare and introduce them.

Should I wean calves early in a drought?
It can help save the cow, but it must be done carefully, with good feed and water for the calf. Ask your vet or livestock officer to advise on the right age and feeding plan for your situation.

The advice worth bookmarking

In a drought, hope is not feed, so count your animals, count your feed, sell the gap while the cattle still have value, and put every kilogram you have into the cows that will carry your herd into the next rain.