Although dairy cows are naturally resilient to both cold and heat, extreme winter conditions, dry climates, poor feeding practices, and a lack of green forage can significantly reduce milk production and even hinder the normal growth and development of the animals. To ensure their well-being during the cold season, the author recommends implementing seven key strategies.
First, maintaining an appropriate temperature in the cowshed is crucial. The ideal temperature range should be between 8°C and 17°C. If it gets too cold, especially below 0°C at night, cows should be housed indoors to prevent frostbite and excessive energy loss. When sudden temperature drops occur due to cold winds, windows and ventilation holes should be sealed promptly, and insulation should be reinforced. Special attention should be given to perinatal cows, newborn calves, and high-yield cattle, ensuring that the temperature remains between 15°C and 17°C. Additionally, cows should not be kept outside for more than six hours a day; instead, they should have two short periods of activity—three hours each in the morning and afternoon.
Second, managing the density of the cowshed is essential. Once all cows are inside, good ventilation must be maintained to keep humidity levels below 55%. High humidity can irritate the cows and negatively impact milk yield, potentially leading to fungal infections. Urine should be removed regularly to maintain cleanliness and dryness in the barn.
Third, adjusting the feed ration is important during winter. The diet should be diversified, with increased energy content. Corn should be increased by 20% to 50%, while protein levels remain stable. For roughage, silage, micro-ingredients, or by-products like brewers’ grains are recommended as substitutes for the green forages typically consumed in summer and autumn.
Fourth, warm water should always be provided. Cold water can cause digestive issues, so it's best to heat the water to 15°C to 25°C before offering it to the cows. Adding salt or tofu to the water can stimulate appetite and help with digestion, while also having anti-inflammatory properties.
Fifth, supplementing the diet with minerals is necessary. Calcium and phosphorus should be added to the feed, with 5–15 grams per day for adult cows. Urea, a cost-effective protein source, can also be included. Calves over six months old should receive 30–50 grams daily, while young cattle need 70–90 grams, and adult cows about 150 grams. However, urea has a poor taste, so it should be mixed with 1% of the concentrate feed and offered with grass. Avoid giving water within 30 minutes after feeding.
Sixth, proper breeding management is critical. Breeding during winter helps avoid calving in the hot summer months, which supports higher milk yields. Farmers should take advantage of this period to improve breeding efficiency and ensure healthy calf development.
Lastly, regular grooming and hygiene are essential. Brushing the cows twice daily for 3–6 minutes helps maintain cleanliness, improves blood circulation, and strengthens their immune system. Regular disinfection of the barns and pastures, along with timely vaccinations, ensures disease prevention. Early detection and treatment of illnesses are vital to maintaining the health and productivity of the herd.
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