By Alice McFarlane

Cold Weather

Cold weather stresses livestock

Feb 8, 2019 | 11:53 AM

Shelter, proper bedding and feed are crucial for livestock in the frigid temperatures.

Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture livestock and feed extension specialist Leah Clark said trees can provide shelter as long as the animals have easy access to a spot where there is protection from the elements.

The next consideration is adequate fresh bedding.

“Fresh bedding can do a lot,” Clark said. “When animals are lying on snow even if it’s on old bedding they’ll experience a 25 per cent energy loss compared to when they have that fresh bedding so that is huge in creating some warmth.”

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Clark said the animals also need an increase in feed rations.

“The one rule of thumb we like to go to is for every five degree drop in temperature below minus 20 a cow would need an extra pound of grain. That’s based on body weight,” Clark said. “If you have yearlings that are about half the weight of your cows, drop that to half a pound. That’s in addition to the current ration.”

The metabolism of livestock increases as the body signals they need more energy to stay warm. Feed goes through the body faster.

“Another big thing is frozen water bowls. Animals need water,” Clark said.

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alice.mcfarlane@jpbg.ca