Grass tetany is one problem that occurs in cattle production that can usually be prevented by taking to appropriate preventative measures. It annually occurs in approximately one percent of the adult female cattle population. Grass tetany is also commonly referred to as wheat pasture poisoning, winter tetany, grass staggers and lactation tetany. The majority of grass tetany problems occur in the late winter and early spring months in cattle grazing well fertilized, lush growing pastures, but it should be noted that it can be a problem anytime during the year.

Symptoms of grass tetany range from staggering and falling to profuse salivation and even death. Although, there are several symptoms most diagnosed cases are related to deficient levels of magnesium in the cow’s blood serum. Low magnesium levels may result from inadequate amounts of magnesium being consumed or that it is in a form which is unavailable to the animal. High calcium and potassium levels in some forages tend to reduce magnesium absorption from the digestive tract. Grass tetany frequently occurs on well managed farms and is not just a problem unique to poorly managed forages and cattle operations.

The best alternative to preventing this problem is to provide supplemental magnesium to your cattle. To be on the safe side, some producers make this available year-around to their cattle, but all cattlemen should put out some form of supplemental magnesium when conditions are favorable for lush, rapid forage growth. Supplemental magnesium is available in a variety of forms ranging from “High-Mag” blocks to the loose salt-like type.

So, if you have not already put out some magnesium for your cattle, I would do so soon since most cases occur in the February through April time period. If you have questions or need more information, call the Walker County Extension Office at 638-2548 or visit our office at 102 E. Napier Street in LaFayette.

Norman Edwards is coordinator of Walker County Extension Service.