This page provides articles on housing mangement for cattle. Housing management is increasingly important because it has a major influence on animal health. Cattle that don't have good housing facilities, will be more affected by animal diseases. Appropriate housing management also enhances efficiency and animal welfare.
Housing management
Latest article
The importance of soft floors for dairy cattle
To maintain a healthy herd with constant high production levels, dairy farmers must offer maximum comfort for their cows. Cow comfort in the free stall for resting has received a lot of attention, but walking comfort in the passageways is also of major importance.
When cows are forced to rest in poorly designed cubicles or on a hard surface it results in shortened resting periods, which have a negative effect on production and... read more »
More articles
Cool cattle performe better
Simple tools can be used to help recognise when cattle are stressed by heat and humidity. These should help in planning for relief when a heat wave occurs. A heat wave is three or more consecutive days of extremely hot conditions. read more >
Is group housing for calves better than isolation?
Housing - whether in groups, hutches or isolation - affects behaviour and performance. Calves housed in isolation produce more milk after calving compared to those housed in hutches or groups. Research on this subject is thriving, especially in Europe. read more >
Hoof trimming practicalities
Claw management pays off. Hoof and foot problems are, next to udder diseases and fertility troubles, a major cause for early culling of dairy cows. Poorly manicured claws result in poor performance and do not contribute to the welfare of the animal. read more >
Increase alfalfa silages results
Corn and alfalfa silages are key parts of European dairy cows rations. The quality of fermentation and stability after opening determine 200 days of production and, consequently, of profit. Farmers cannot afford to miss these. read more >
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