Although dairy cows are naturally 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 maintain their health and productivity during the winter, the following measures should be taken.
First, ensure that the barn is well-insulated and maintains an optimal temperature. The ideal temperature range for a winter barn is 8–17°C. If the temperature drops below 0°C at night, it's essential to bring the cows indoors. In case of sudden temperature drops due to cold winds, block any open windows or ventilation holes and reinforce the insulation. Special attention should be given to perinatal cows, newborn calves, and high-yield cows, as they require a warmer environment—ideally around 15–17°C. Additionally, cows should not spend more than six hours outside during the day. It’s best to allow them three hours of exercise in the morning and afternoon to stay active without overexerting themselves.
Once inside, the barn must remain well-ventilated to prevent excessive humidity. The relative humidity should not exceed 55%. Regular cleaning is also important—urine and waste should be removed promptly to keep the area clean and dry, which helps prevent disease and improves overall hygiene.
Second, diversify the feed supply. While protein content in concentrate feed should remain consistent, the amount of corn should be increased by 20% to 50% to boost energy intake. For roughage, silage, micro-feed, or by-products from breweries are excellent alternatives to the green forage typically available in summer and autumn.
During long winter nights, it's crucial to provide extra feed. Cows should receive an additional feeding at night, with 13–15 kg of grass offered daily. Diversify the forage with options like wheat straw, hay, peanut shells, and valerian root to ensure a balanced diet and comprehensive nutrition.
Third, always provide warm water. During winter, it’s best to offer water at a temperature of 15–25°C. Adding a small amount of salt and soybean meal can encourage drinking while also helping to reduce internal heat and inflammation.
Fourth, balance the feed properly. When mixing concentrates, combine hard materials such as corn and soybeans with softer ingredients like bran and flour. Start with grass, then gradually add other feeds. Add scented ingredients to improve palatability and stimulate appetite.
In winter, the forage variety is limited, so adding appropriate amounts of calcium and phosphorus to the diet can help. A daily dose of 5–15 grams is usually sufficient. Urea is an effective way to supplement protein, especially for older cattle. Calves over six months can receive 30–50 grams daily, young cattle 70–90 grams, and adult cows about 150 grams. 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 to maximize absorption.
Fifth, take advantage of the breeding season. Breeding cows in winter can lead to calving in the spring, avoiding the stress of summer heat and promoting better milk yields. Make sure to manage breeding carefully and take full advantage of this critical period.
Finally, maintain cleanliness and disease prevention. Brush the cows twice daily—once in the morning and once at night—for 3–6 minutes each session. This not only keeps their skin clean but also helps regulate body temperature and strengthen their immune system. Clean the barn regularly, remove manure, and ensure the bedding is dry and free of contamination to prevent illness.
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