Post Wildfire Livestock Care Guide for Ranchers

By Scout Nelson

Nebraska Extension shares important guidance for cattle producers recovering from recent wildfires in the state. After ensuring human safety, producers should quickly focus on stabilizing livestock, documenting losses, and developing a grazing recovery plan to protect their operations.

Cattle should not return to recently burned pastures. Burned areas may contain ashes, damaged fences, hot spots, and smoldering materials that can cause injuries to hooves and soft tissues. Producers should carefully check livestock and keep animals away from unsafe areas.

Ranchers should evaluate cattle several times in the days and weeks following a wildfire. Some health problems may appear slowly, especially burn-related hoof injuries. Producers should examine cattle for signs of burns or swelling on hooves, udders, sheaths, and testicles. Eyes and muzzles should also be checked for soot, scratches, or irritation. Breathing problems such as coughing or rapid breathing may indicate smoke exposure.

Veterinarians should be contacted early to help manage injuries and provide treatment. Veterinarians may recommend burn treatment, pain relief, or antibiotics when necessary. In severe cases, humane euthanasia may be the best option if animals cannot recover or move safely.

Clean water access is essential for cattle recovery. Stressed and displaced animals may require more water than usual. If cattle have gone without water for a day or longer, they should be reintroduced slowly by offering small amounts of water at regular intervals. Providing several water access points can reduce crowding and prevent digestive problems.

Feed support may also be needed if pasture or hay supplies were damaged by fire. Temporary feeding programs using commercial feed products may help maintain cattle condition until hay or grazing becomes available. Producers may work with nutritionists or local Extension livestock educators when planning feeding programs.

Documentation is another important step during recovery. Producers should take clear photos of damaged livestock, fences, feed supplies, and infrastructure before cleanup begins. Insurance providers should be contacted early, and ranchers may also qualify for disaster assistance programs through the USDA Farm Service Agency. To locate your local USDA Service Center, visit: https://www.farmers.gov/working-with-us/service-center-locator

Burned pastures need time to recover before grazing resumes. Producers may need to delay grazing, repair fences and water systems, and adjust stocking rates while monitoring pasture regrowth.

Wildfire recovery can also create emotional stress for ranch families. The Nebraska Rural Response Hotline offers confidential support for emotional, financial, and legal concerns during disaster recovery.

FAQ’s

• What should cattle producers do first after a wildfire?

Ensure human safety first, then check livestock health and provide clean water and feed.

• Can cattle return immediately to burned pastures?

No, cattle should stay out of burned areas because hot spots and ash can injure them.

• What health issues should producers watch for cattle after a wildfire?

Producers should check for burns, hoof damage, breathing problems, and eye injuries.

• Why is documentation important after wildfire damage?

Photos and records help producers report losses and apply for insurance or assistance programs.

• How should burned pastures be managed after a wildfire?

Pastures should rest before grazing so vegetation can recover and rangeland health improves.

Photo Credit: pexels-islandhopper