Building Better Barns

Seeing the Freestall from the Cow's Perspective

Abstract

Design and management of the feeding area are important. High stocking densities at the feed bunk increase aggressive competition and keep subordinate cows away from feed. Physical barriers between cows, including head lockers and feed stalls, can help reduce this competition and increase feeding time.

Cows like softer surfaces, for both lying down and for standing upon. Deep-bedded stalls work well for cow comfort, but require maintenance. When it comes to physical structures used to build freestalls, less is more - the hardware we place in the stall is for our benefit, and not the cow's. The more restrictive we design stalls, the less attractive they become for the cow. Use of restrictive stall designs can help keep stalls clean, but to avoid problems with hoof health these designs need to be accompanied by better flooring options, such as softer and drier flooring.