What We’re Reading | Bale net wrap, twine present health hazard for cows

By Heather Smith Thomas

Producers may never realize they have a problem unless a necropsy reveals net wrap or baling twine inside the animal

Use of net wrap on hay and straw bales carries risks to cattle.

Dr. John Campbell, professor of large animal clinical sciences at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, says some producers in recent years have lost cows that ingested net wrap left on bales or chopped in a processor.

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“This is probably not a common occurrence, but we’ve seen cases of obstruction caused by net wrap,” said Campbell.

‘What We’re Reading’ is a quick look at some of the issues and insights Alberta Beef Producers’ content creators and editors are reading to stay up-to-date, to broaden perspectives, and to explore issues relevant to the agriculture industry.