Although dairy cows are generally resilient to both cold and heat, the unusually harsh winter, combined with poor feeding practices and a lack of fresh forage, can significantly reduce milk production. To help cows thrive during the winter months, the following measures should be taken.
First, ensure that the cowshed is well-insulated and maintained at an optimal temperature. The ideal temperature range for the barn is between 8°C and 17°C. If temperatures drop below 0°C at night, it’s essential to bring the cows indoors for the night. In case of sudden temperature drops due to cold winds, block any open windows or ventilation holes and reinforce insulation. Special attention should be given to perinatal cows, newborn calves, and high-yield cattle, keeping their environment around 15–17°C. Also, limit outdoor time to no more than 6 hours a day, ideally split into 3-hour sessions in the morning and afternoon.
Once inside, ensure proper ventilation to maintain humidity levels below 55%. Regularly remove urine and manure to keep the barn clean and dry, which helps prevent disease and improves overall hygiene.
Second, diversify the feed. Increase the amount of corn in the concentrate feed by 20% to 50%, while keeping protein sources consistent. For roughage, use silage, micro-fermented feeds, or by-products from breweries as substitutes for the green forages typically available in summer and autumn.
During the long winter nights, provide additional feedings. Offer 13–15 kg of forage daily, including a variety of materials such as wheat straw, rice straw, hay, peanut hulls, and valerian root. This ensures a balanced diet and supports better nutrition.
Third, always provide warm water. In winter, it’s best to give cows water heated to 15–25°C. Adding a small amount of salt or soybean foam can encourage drinking and also has a cooling and anti-inflammatory effect.
Fourth, balance the feed properly. When feeding concentrates, mix hard ingredients like corn and soybeans with soft ones like bran and meal. Start with grass, then gradually add other materials. Add aromatic substances to improve palatability.
In winter, the forage may become less varied, so supplementing with calcium and phosphorus can be beneficial. Feed about 5–15 grams daily. Urea is an effective protein source; calves over 6 months old can get 30–50 g, young cattle 70–90 g, and adult cows around 150 g. However, urea has a strong taste, so it should be mixed with 1% of the concentrate feed and offered with grass. Avoid giving water within 30 minutes after feeding.
Fifth, take advantage of the breeding season in winter. Breeding during this time can help avoid calving in the hot summer, leading to better milk yields. Make the most of this period by ensuring proper breeding management.
Lastly, maintain cleanliness. Brush the cows twice daily—morning and evening—for 3–6 minutes each session. This not only keeps their coats clean but also promotes blood circulation, regulates body temperature, and strengthens immunity. Additionally, regularly clean the barn and manage waste to prevent disease outbreaks.
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