Mount Pleasant, Texas – With triple‑digit temperatures persisting across East Texas, local ranchers are taking extra steps to shield their cattle from heat‑related stress. Bethany Nolan of KTBS 3 visited Cox Ranch, where owner Ryon Cox explained how the sweltering weather is reshaping daily routines and prompting more frequent health checks.

Early‑morning grazing and midday shade

“When it starts getting this hot, it’s pretty easy to notice changes in the herd,” Cox said. Cattle now graze primarily in the early morning, then seek shade and water during the hottest parts of the day. The ranch has positioned fresh‑water troughs throughout the property to ensure a constant supply of cool, clean water.

Intensive monitoring during calving season

Heat arrives at a crucial moment for Cox Ranch, as the fall calving season approaches. Pregnant cows are being kept close to the main ranch headquarters so they can be examined every four hours. “We’ll look at their eyes, their tongues and their breathing patterns,” Cox explained, noting that early detection of stress can prevent more serious health issues.

Preparing for a drier future

If the hot, dry spell continues, ranchers may need to begin feeding hay earlier than usual because pasture grass is drying out faster. Some producers could even be forced to reduce herd sizes should drought conditions worsen.

Community resilience

For ranchers throughout East Texas, the focus remains on keeping livestock healthy, hydrated, and safe until cooler temperatures return. The proactive measures taken by Cox Ranch illustrate the broader commitment of local agricultural families to steward their herds responsibly, even under extreme weather conditions.

These efforts underscore the importance of vigilant animal care, reliable water sources, and adaptive management practices for the region’s farming community.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.