Net wrap and twine are issues every livestock producer must address at some point in the year. Cattle that consume too much can develop health problems.
With producers feeding more hay this year than usual, there are even more potential concerns about net wrap. If animals do eat the wrap, it can accumulate in the rumen and cause obstructions.
North Dakota State University performed research showing that net wrap and even biodegradable twine were not digested by the microbes in the rumen. Steers fed ground hay without the net wrap removed before grinding were monitored in the study. A full two weeks before steers were harvested, they were given feed with all the net wrap removed, and the net wrap fed earlier was still present throughout the rumen at harvest.
What does this mean for our daily operations? Steers or heifers going to harvest are less of a concern due to their lack of time being fed the net wrap. Brood cows, however, are more of a concern if we want cows on the operation healthy for years. Although the health concern is very low, it is recommended to grind net-wrapped hay or remove the net wrap if it is rolled out or busted to reduce the chances of our cows having any issues.
A little time can eliminate a big headache, and each operation needs to evaluate the risks associated with the decision to remove net wrap and twine. — Brad Schick, Nebraska Extension educator
