Cow Stalls: Comfort, Maintenance, and More

The Agricultural Industry's Constant Evolution: The Role of Cow Stalls

The agricultural industry is constantly evolving, placing increasing emphasis on animal welfare and sustainability. In this context, cow stalls play a crucial role. Not only do they contribute to the comfort of dairy cows, but they also have a significant impact on milk production and the overall health of the herd.

Focus on the importance of cow stalls, key aspects of their comfort, essential maintenance, and current regulations.

What is a Cow Stall?

Cow stalls are housing structures for cows in free-stall barns, designed to allow them to lie down and rest. These spaces play a crucial role in animal comfort. On average, a cow spends 60% of its time lying down, which is why it is essential to design these areas properly in terms of size and comfort.

Cow stalls are designed to support the cow's body weight evenly, minimizing pressure points and joint pain. Their ergonomic design promotes better blood circulation, which contributes to the overall health of the cows.

The Different Types of Cow Stalls

Various types of cow stalls are used to enhance the comfort of cows in dairy farming.

Depending on the tubular structure and partitions, examples include:

• “European” stalls with posts
• “European” stalls without posts
• “US” stalls
• Dutch fiberglass stalls
• Straight tube stalls

Depending on the bedding material, different types include:

• Basic stalls: Cows lie on a concrete or asphalt surface without mattresses or straw.
• Stalls with mats: These include a rubber mat for cows to lie on, offering some comfort and sometimes combined with synthetic covers.
• Mattress stalls: Equipped with rubber mattresses for additional support, sometimes used with straw for extra comfort.
• Deep-bedded stalls: Designed with a recessed area for cows to lie down, providing excellent support and reducing pressure points.
• Straw-bedded stalls: Filled with straw to create a comfortable resting surface, promoting air circulation and a favorable thermal environment.

Comfort and Regulations for Cow Stalls

The comfort of cows is directly linked to their welfare and performance. Properly installed cows experience less stress, fewer injuries, and a lower risk of disease. Well-designed stalls allow cows to lie down and get up smoothly, reducing the risk of lameness and joint problems. Good comfort also promotes better digestion and, consequently, higher milk production.

Stall arrangements must balance cow welfare with the needs of farmers. Design practices must comply with regulations and animal welfare standards. Free-stall housing is a common approach, offering a balance between cow comfort and farm management.

Regulations vary by region, but some common standards include:

• Use of non-abrasive materials that do not cause irritation or injuries to cows’ skin.
• Easy and adequate access to water and food at all times.
• High-quality mattresses that provide adequate support and prevent pressure points. Mattresses must be regularly maintained to ensure effectiveness.
• A sloped front edge that facilitates entry and exit from the stall, minimizing joint strain.
• Bedding, such as straw, that promotes thermal comfort and provides a suitable resting environment.
• An effective and non-harmful stall stop.

The partitions and dimensions of stalls must also be adequate to:

• Contain the cow without excessive spillage into neighboring stalls.
• Provide enough space.
• Prevent injuries.
• Allow for neck bar adjustments.

These criteria ensure the comfort, safety, and ease of movement of cows in the stalls, contributing to their well-being and productivity.

Maintenance of Cow Stalls

Maintaining cow stalls is essential for cow health. Various bedding drying solutions are available to keep stalls clean and promote animal hygiene. Maintaining a healthy environment reduces the risk of disease and stress.

Regular maintenance of stalls is crucial for their durability and efficiency. Key points to consider include:

• Stalls should be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt, manure, milk, and urine, which can cause health issues.
• Regular maintenance of walkways and exercise areas is also necessary.
• Check the condition of mattresses frequently and replace them if excessively worn. The condition of flooring and bedding is essential in stalls.
• Ensure good airflow within the stalls to prevent moisture buildup and bacterial growth.

Cow stalls play a crucial role in animal welfare, milk production, and the sustainability of the agricultural industry. By providing a comfortable and well-maintained space for cows, farmers can not only improve herd health but also optimize milk yield.

For this reason, the Sommet de l'Élevage is focusing on this topic and will offer, during its 2023 edition, a conference addressing the evolution of dairy cow sizes and updated recommendations for stall dimensions to ensure animal comfort.

Discover and participate in the conference: “New Recommendations for Stall Comfort”.