Mice can be a big problem for cattle farmers. These little creatures can cause a lot of damage to your herd, and they can also spread disease. In this article, we will discuss the ways mice can harm your cattle and what you can do to protect your animals, so read on.
Crop consumption
Believe it or not, mice can consume a large number of crops. Unfortunately, crop consumption can lead to significant financial losses for farmers, preventing them from feeding their farm animals. As a result, farmers may have to purchase extra food for their animals, which can increase the overall cost of running a farm. If you notice mice on your property, it is essential to take action right away. You can do a few things to keep these pests away from your crops. For example, you can set up traps or use poison baits. You can also try to keep your property clean and free of debris, making it less attractive to mice.
Grain contamination
Mice can contaminate grain supplies with their urine and faeces, causing disease in cattle. Grain contaminated with mouse urine and faeces can also be a fire hazard. If you suspect that your grain has been contaminated, it is vital to contact a professional to have it cleaned and disinfected.Of course, preventing mice from contaminating your cattle’s food isn’t easy, but unfortunately, it’s often necessary. For example, you’ll have to be extra careful when storing grain. Make sure the area is clean and free of potential hiding spots for mice. You should also regularly inspect your grain supplies for signs of contamination.
Equipment damage
Mice are known for chewing on wires and other farm equipment. Therefore, mice and other rodent infestations can cause severe damage to your equipment and even put your cattle at risk.
Moreover, Australia has been dealing with an increased mice infestation due to the prolonged drought for some time now. This has led to even more damage on farms as the mice try to find food and shelter. So, it would be best to be extra careful and inspect your entire property every now and then to prevent these pests from taking over your farm and endangering your cattle.
Damage to buildings and insulation
One of the worst scenarios for a farmer is dealing with a mice infestation in the winter. These little creatures can cause a lot of damage to your buildings and insulation, making it difficult to keep your animals warm.Mice can also create nests in your insulation, a well-known fire hazard. So, if you notice the signs of mice infestation, such as droppings or chewed-up insulation, it is crucial to seek help from experts. Consider hiring a pest control company to eliminate the mice and prevent them from returning. Professionals offering pest control services in Cairns will help you get rid of your mice problem quickly and efficiently.
They will also provide tips on how to keep these pests away from your property in the future. Pest control is integral to running a farm, and it is especially important if you have cattle. Mice are known from causing serious damage to properties and putting both animals and humans at risk, so you should have a professional exterminator inspect and treat your farm at least once a year.
Disease risks
Mice are carriers of leptospirosis, a disease that can be deadly to cattle. This disease is spread through the urine of infected animals and can cause liver and kidney damage in cattle. In severe cases, leptospirosis can lead to death. On top of that, leptospirosis is a common cause of pregnancy loss in cattle. Luckily, a vaccine is available for leptospirosis, and it is important to vaccinate and take good care of your dairy cattle if you live in an area where this disease is common. Mice can also carry other diseases that can be harmful to both humans and animals. For example, hantavirus is another dangerous disease that is spread by rodents. This virus can cause severe respiratory illness in humans and can even be deadly.
Conclusion
As you can see, mice infestation is the last thing you want on your farm. If you leave the problem unchecked, it will only get worse. Mice will never leave on their own, and although you might be able to get rid of them temporarily, they will eventually come back. The best way to deal with mice is to prevent them from coming in the first place. But, if you already see the signs of their presence, contact the pest control service right away.