How to properly care for dairy cows during winter is crucial for maintaining their health and milk production. Based on practical experience, it can be summarized in ten key principles: build, observe, warm, moist, fine, juicy, water, supplement, protect, and net.
**Build** – Maintain detailed records of each cow’s pedigree and health history. Establish a comprehensive disease prevention plan to reduce the risk of infectious diseases and parasites.
**Observe** – Regularly monitor the herd for signs of illness. Promptly identify and treat sick cows. Keep cow collars and equipment clean and disinfected. Expose hay and tools to sunlight regularly, and sterilize work clothes and medical instruments thoroughly.
**Warm** – When temperatures drop below -15°C at night, bring cows indoors to prevent frostbite and excessive energy loss, which can lower milk yield. Keep the barn temperature between 10-25°C during winter for optimal comfort.
**Moist** – Ensure good ventilation in the barn to control humidity. The relative humidity should not exceed 60%, as high moisture levels can cause discomfort, reduce milk output, and increase the risk of fungal infections.
**Fine** – In winter, corn becomes a vital energy source for cows. Increase corn intake by 20–50% while keeping protein feed constant. High-producing cows should receive 6–8 kg of concentrate daily, while average cows need at least 3.2 kg per day.
**Juicy** – Feed more succulent feeds like silage, micro-stored feed, or brewer’s grains to replace the green forage that cows typically eat in warmer seasons. This helps maintain milk production during colder months.
**Water** – Avoid letting cows drink ice-cold water. Instead, provide warm water at 10–30°C. Ensure a constant supply of fresh water throughout the day to support digestion and overall health.
**Supplement** – Add 5–15 grams of calcium and phosphorus to the daily diet. To avoid over-salting, do not mix salt directly into feed. Instead, offer salt blocks or salt troughs so cows can self-regulate their intake.
**Protect** – Prevent cold stress, dampness, dehydration, and sudden changes in feed or feeding routines. Consistency is key to avoiding digestive issues and stress-related health problems.
**Net** – Create a safe and healthy environment by ensuring clean housing, proper feeding, clean water, good air quality, and regular body checks. This “net†approach supports the overall well-being of your dairy herd.
By following these ten principles, you can ensure your dairy cows remain healthy, comfortable, and productive throughout the winter season.
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