South East Local Land Services is reminding livestock producers to carefully check hay, grain and silage for mould contamination, with poor-quality fodder posing serious risks to animal health welfare and productivity.
During feed shortages and difficult seasons, feeding less-than-ideal fodder can be tempting. However, moulds can develop when feed is harvested or stored with too much moisture, or when air enters silage. Some moulds produce toxic compounds known as mycotoxins, which can remain in feed even after mould growth is no longer visible.
Senior Agricultural Advisor, Jo Powells, said mould-contaminated feed can have significant impacts on livestock performance and health.
“Feeding mouldy hay, grain or silage can reduce feed intake and digestibility, leading to poorer weight gain, lower milk production and reduced feed efficiency,” Jo said.
“In some cases, livestock will selectively avoid mouldy material, which can increase feed wastage and disrupt balanced nutrition.”
The impacts can be particularly severe in young, pregnant or stressed animals. Depending on the type and level of toxins present, health issues may include scouring, reduced immunity, liver damage, respiratory irritation, lameness and reproductive problems. In extreme cases, mould contamination can result in abortions or livestock deaths.
While sheep and cattle are generally more tolerant to moulds and mycotoxins than horses or pigs, Jo said they are not immune to the risks.
“Silage is especially vulnerable when it has been poorly compacted or sealed, while hay baled too wet or exposed to rain during storage can also develop significant mould issues,” she said.
“Old grain, screenings or grain from the bottom of silos are also common high-risk feed sources.”
Visible mould, heating, clumping or musty smells are warning signs, but the absence of these signs does not always mean feed is safe.
“If producers suspect feed contamination, testing for mould counts or mycotoxins can help assess the level of risk,” Jo said.
“I encourage landholders to speak with their local veterinarian or Local Land Services Agricultural Advisor for advice on testing and management options.”
South East Local Land Services advises that damaged or suspect feed should generally be discarded or repurposed rather than diluted and fed to livestock, as the potential production and animal health costs can quickly outweigh any short-term savings.
