With the recent good spell of much-wanted warm weather, it can bring problems also.

With temperatures set to exceed 25°C in some parts of the country, farmers need to ensure they and their animals are prepared for the hot weather.

The first and biggest concern farmers need to address is that cattle have sufficient water to drink, as the warm weather will increase water consumption.

Poor water supply or slow flow may reduce the availability of water as cattle tend to graze and drink in groups.

Stock should be checked regularly and farmers need to know the signs of heat stress and pneumonia. Observe both breeding bulls and teasers, as they will be under increased pressure over the coming hot days.

Bulls may be less active with the weather and conception rates may be lower at current high temperatures.

Careful attention

Breeding bulls need careful attention, as, in cases where only one bull is present, if bulls enter a stress period, it may cause them become sub-fertile, which will affect cows going in-calf.

Cattle that still remain housed for finishing or calves still being reared need careful monitoring. Where ventilation is poor, the warm temperatures may increase cases of pneumonia.

The high temperatures will increase fly and midge activity - this brings problems where farmers haven’t vaccinated against bluetongue. They need to be concerned about the high-risk period this warm weather will bring.

Summer mastitis is a potential problem in areas where cattle will group together for shade or near water courses where fly activity is at its highest.

Careful monitoring is recommended and check out this week’s Focus in both print and online on summer health to read more on what products help prevent incidences of summer mastitis.

Most importantly, farmers need to ensure they protect themselves against the sun, cover skin where possible and wear sunscreen.

Skin cancer is the most common form in Ireland and farmers and those working in the outdoors are most at risk.