Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-05-10 Origin: Site
Winter brings increased stress for young calves, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. Cold weather can affect calf health, feed intake, and growth rates if housing is not properly prepared. For farms using plastic or polyethylene hutches, winterizing calf hutches is a practical way to support animal welfare and reduce seasonal challenges.
Cold stress in calves can lead to:
Lower feed efficiency
Weakened immune responses
Increased risk of pneumonia and scours
Slower weight gain
By taking proactive steps to winterize calf hutches, farms can maintain warmer, drier environments and help calves stay healthy and resilient.
Check for cracks or holes in plastic hutch walls, roofs, or floors. Even minor damage can let in cold drafts.
Inspect hinges, doors, and vent covers to ensure they close securely.
Confirm that ventilation ports are clean but adjustable for reduced airflow during freezing temperatures.
Tip: Replace any damaged hutches or panels before the first frost to avoid emergency repairs later.
A deep, dry bedding base provides thermal insulation from cold ground surfaces.
Use straw, which offers better insulation than sawdust or shavings.
Aim for 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) of bedding depth.
Add bedding frequently to maintain dryness and warmth.
Calves should be able to "nest"—partially sink into bedding—with their legs covered when lying down.
Position hutches with the opening facing away from prevailing winter winds.
If possible, use windbreaks (e.g., hay bales, snow fencing) to shield hutches from direct exposure.
Avoid placing hutches in low-lying or muddy areas, which can lead to moisture buildup.
Grouping hutches in rows with shared wind barriers can reduce exposure while maintaining good airflow.
Ventilation is still critical in winter to prevent respiratory issues caused by stale, humid air.
Use adjustable rear or roof vents to balance fresh air with heat retention.
Avoid sealing hutches completely—this can trap moisture and ammonia.
Monitor inside humidity levels: if condensation appears, airflow should be slightly increased.
Winterized housing should be paired with nutrition adjustments, including:
Increased milk volume or feeding frequency to compensate for higher energy needs
Access to warm water instead of cold, especially in freezing conditions
Clean, dry starter feed that won’t spoil due to humidity
Work with a veterinarian or nutritionist to fine-tune energy intake for cold stress periods.
Some accessories can improve warmth and comfort:
Calf jackets for added insulation during the first few weeks
Rubber mats under bedding to prevent ground chill
Draft shields or winter panels over front gates or feeders
Ensure accessories are clean and fit properly to avoid creating new stressors.
Even with a well-winterized setup, calves should be observed more frequently during cold spells.
Watch for signs of cold stress: shivering, lethargy, sunken eyes, or reduced feed intake.
Check that calves are dry, alert, and warm to the touch—especially the ears and legs.
Proper calf hutch winterization is not just about comfort—it directly impacts calf survival, health outcomes, and overall productivity. By following these simple but effective steps, farms can provide a safer, warmer environment throughout winter, ensuring that calves grow strong despite the cold.
At Baihui, our calf hutches are designed with durability, weather resistance, and year-round usability in mind. For winter accessories, technical support, or a consultation on how to optimize your calf housing system, feel free to contact our team.
