With winter in full swing, it's vital for farmers to properly care for their livestock. They have specific needs during the season, from animal feed to resting space. The guide below explains best practices for ensuring that your cattle, hogs, and poultry stay as healthy as possible.

What to Know About Winter Livestock Care

How much water do they need?

Without sufficient water, your livestock won't be able to digest properly. It also keeps them warm. According to the Small Farm Resources Division of Extension, daily watering should be as follows: 7-12 gallons per day for cattle, 6-8 for hogs, 8-12 for horses, and one for poultry. Remember that lactating animals will need more water.

How much space do they need?

Livestock will need warm places to spend time and bed down for the night. Make sure their living areas are properly ventilated and free of moisture. Large animals, like cattle and horses, need 80 square feet of space per individual. Hogs can make do with 8-16 square feet and poultry requires only 3-8 square feet. However, you may need to add a heat source for these smaller animals to prevent rapid heat loss.

How should I feed them?

When serving animal feed, maintain a regular schedule. Think of the animal feed as fuel for their bodies that they need on a regular basis. Provide extra grain for foraging livestock, as well as alfalfa or grass hay they can freely access. Always have extra feed on hand and address any signs of malnutrition or illnesses right away.

What should I do during severe storms?

When severe winter storms arrive, bring all your livestock indoors if you can. Give the smaller cattle blankets and increase the quality of their feed on these days since they’ll have less opportunity to graze.

If you need to stock up on animal feed and other farm supplies, turn to Carhart Feed & Seed Co. They’re proud to offer a variety of tools and products to customers in Dove Creek, CO, including veterinarian equipment, plumbing fixtures, and automobile parts. To speak with their staff, call (970) 677-2233 today.

Written by J.T. Langley

Vivial Marketing Team