Midlands Cattle Dying Because Of Lack Of Water And Pastures - Report

Midlands has reported that some cattle have reportedly started dying due to lack of water and grazing pastures, the Chronicle reports.

This was revealed by the Midlands provincial crop and livestock officer, Mrs Medlinah Magwenzi who said:

Livestock in the communal areas is now in a dire situation as pastures are running out. Water sources are also now very far which affect the health of the animals. We have recorded three deaths of cattle in Mberengwa due to shortage of pastures and water and there are also un reported deaths of cattle across the province.

Cattle which are doing a bit well are those in A2 and commercial farms where there are boreholes or water bodies otherwise communal farmers risk losing their livestock especially cattle,

The government have urged farmers to go the extra mile and harvest grass and wheat straw and look for alternative feeds  to feed their animals as grazing pastures disappear during the dry season:

The farmers should continue harvesting grass, wheat straw, stove where available. They can buy molasses and coarse salt.

They dilute molasses and salt in water and sprinkle on the roughage then feed their cattle. The dilution measurement can be obtained from extension staff on the ground to avoid misconceptions.

Molasses, if fed in large quantities can cause bloat to cattle and finally kill. So, farmers need to consult. Another way is to treat hay with urea.

The 2019 drought saw the death of over 50 000 beasts across the country.

More: Chronicle