What preparatory work should be done for dairy cows to overwinter
As winter arrives, dairy farmers also need to prepare their cows for overwintering. Every winter is a good time for dairy cows to recuperate, and as long as the overwintering work is done well, an increase in production the following year is inevitable. So what preparations should be made for dairy cows to overwinter? Let's take a look at the areas that deserve attention.
1. Repair and replacement of the cowshed
In winter, the cowshed is the shelter of the dairy cows, so extra attention should be paid to it, since it is key to temperature control. In winter, the main focus for the cowshed is repair and replacement: for damaged areas, it is best to replace parts in time to avoid problems later; next is patching up leaks. At this time of year, the cowshed is not after ventilation but warmth retention, so it is best to promptly patch up any drafty spots. After repair and replacement are done, inspect the cowshed regularly so that new drafty spots are not missed.
2. Adjust the nutrient ratio
The nutrient ratio of the feed given during overwintering also needs to be changed. In winter, cows have a higher demand for various trace elements, so farmers should appropriately increase them compared with summer. In addition, the feed should not be too monotonous, otherwise the cows' appetite will decline, and the ratio of concentrated feed to roughage should also be adjusted accordingly. Since winter is basically dominated by dry hay, it is best to regularly feed some green feed with higher moisture content that stores well, such as carrots and sweet potatoes.
3. Prepare to change the rearing method
At this time, the activity area of dairy cows basically shifts from grazing to the cowshed, but this cannot be changed all at once, otherwise the cows will not adapt, become restless, and refuse to eat. This change in rearing mode needs to be carried out gradually: first reduce the time spent grazing outside, then increase the amount fed online, until the herd slowly adapts. This takes about a week. Once the transition is completed with no reaction from the cows, start raising them in confinement for the winter.
4. Do a good job of hygiene and cleaning
During overwintering, preparations for dealing with diseases must also be made: first, disinfection work for the cowshed, and second, disinfection work for the cows themselves. Both must be carried out at the same time. In particular, extra attention should be paid to deworming the dairy cows, so the probability of the cows getting sick the following year will drop a lot. If the cows are rather dirty, it is best to wash them first and then disinfect them, to reduce the number of pathogens they carry.
The above are some of the preparatory actions to take when dairy cows overwinter. Winter is a very good period for conditioning the body functions of dairy cows, so farmers should seize this precious time and make more preparations for the coming year.