As grass growth slows and fields soften, most dairy herds across Ireland and the UK are now heading indoors for the winter. Housing brings its own challenges — from keeping cows clean and comfortable to maintaining milk quality and herd health. Getting things right now will pay dividends come spring.
1. Bedding and Hygiene — start clean, stay clean
Before cows move in, power wash and disinfect cubicles, feed barriers, and passageways. A dry, hygienic environment is the best defence against mastitis and lameness.
Many farmers use a mix of straw or sawdust bedding, while others rely on cubicle lime to keep lying areas dry and reduce bacterial growth. Lime doesn’t just control bacteria — it also helps to absorb moisture and maintain hoof health.
If you’re liming regularly, a Vink Lime Spreader makes the job faster and more consistent, saving time and ensuring even coverage across every cubicle.
For those on slatted floors, good drainage and regular scraping and brushing are key to keeping cows clean and comfortable through the housing period.
2. Nutrition and Minerals — keep energy and fertility up
Once cows come off grass, the focus shifts to maintaining condition and milk yield. Quality silage is your base, but don’t overlook mineral supplementation.
Winter diets often lack key trace elements, so top up with the EnduraBol High Iodine Bolus. This slow-release bolus provides consistent iodine and trace mineral support for up to six months — ideal for housed cows heading toward spring calving.
You can also provide mineral buckets and feed supplements to ensure your herd gets balanced nutrition even when forage quality varies.
3. Parlour and Shed Hygiene — stop problems before they start
With cows indoors, bacterial pressure naturally rises. Keep teats and udders clean before and after milking, and sanitise parlour areas daily. Reliable dairy hygiene products such as teat dips, parlour disinfectants, and cleaners are essential for keeping cell counts low.
Good ventilation is just as important as clean cubicles — fresh air reduces humidity and keeps lungs healthy through the winter.
4. Cow Comfort and Enrichment — small details, big results
Comfortable cows are productive cows. Make sure cubicle beds are dry, passageways are clear, and cows have room to move freely.
A quality cow brush is a great investment for housed herds. Regular brushing improves blood circulation, keeps hides clean, and reduces stress — farmers often notice calmer, cleaner cows after installing one.
5. Keep Yourself Comfortable Too - stay dry and well
Don’t forget your own comfort this winter! Durable Kaiwaka waterproof clothing and the bestselling Dunlop Wellington Boots — available in both safety and non-safety versions — will keep you warm, dry, and steady on your feet while feeding, liming cubicles, or scraping passages.
