How Do You Protect Livestock from the Cold?

Before winter has the chance to knock on your front door, you should be mapping out a game plan of how you’ll keep your livestock warm during the coldest days of the year. Although a barn is a great place to start, it’s only one element that can help keep your animals comfortable when Jack Frost appears. 

To keep your livestock safe and toasty this winter, here are some prep tips to take into consideration.

Install Windbreaks

Windbreaks, both permanent and portable, are a great way to help keep your livestock out of the blustery winter winds; they help control the drifting snow from being pelted at your animals. Also, windbreaks are a great way to help ease the stress of your animals, but they can help aid in a reduction of mortality and feed consumption.

Patch Up Barn Drafts

As mentioned earlier, barns are a great starting point for keeping your livestock safe and warm during the winter, but there’s a chance your animals’ “home” has some drafts that need to be fixed. Before even colder days arrive, give your barn a walkthrough and keep an eye out for any opening that may contribute to the likelihood of a draft. If you spot anything out of the ordinary, make it your responsibility to have it repaired right away.

Consider Barn Heaters

To help your livestock stay toasty, consider investing in barn heaters. These heating devices are the perfect way to help keep your barn temperature-controlled and your animals safe from frost. However, something to keep in mind: Too much heat can be bad for certain animals on your farm. It’s important to do your research and consult with a veterinarian about how much supplemental heat you should supply around the clock.

Always Ensure their Bedding is Dry

In addition to the essentials (e.g., food and water), your livestock should also have dry bedding — especially during the wintertime. If their bedding is wet during the coldest days of the year, the frigid temperatures and excess moisture can result in frostbite, as well as fatalities (especially for newborn livestock). 

To prevent these incidents from occurring, make an extra conscious effort to examine your livestock’s bedding daily. If their bedding seems damp or looks like it can be replenished, do not hesitate to change it.

We Carry All Your Livestock Essentials

For years, Frey Agricultural Products has been Woodbine, Maryland, and the surrounding areas’ one-stop shop for all their livestock and agricultural needs. From high-quality mulch and bedding to wood products and more, we have what you’re looking for! 

For bulk deliveries and wholesale, please call (301) 367-5350. For our Woodbine retail store, call us at (410) 795-2361. We look forward to speaking with you!