Providing clean, dry and comfortable bedding is one of the simplest ways dairy farmers can support cow health and milk quality.
Sawdust has always been a popular bedding choice for cattle farmers due to its high absorbency and comfort. However, increasingly many farmers are now blending it with lime powder, which can not only improve cubicle hygiene, but reduce overall bedding costs as well.
Neil Whittaker, MD of Animal Bedding Specialists NW Resources, explains: “Good quality lime helps to raise the pH of the cattle bedding, which makes it more difficult for bacteria to thrive. This is particularly important when it comes to reducing the bacteria associated with environmental mastitis, such as E. coli and Klebsiella.”
“If the correct type of lime is combined with the moisture-absorbing properties of sawdust, the result is a cleaner, drier bedding surface that helps keep udders in better condition,” he added.
Increased Herd Performance
Good bedding hygiene can have a real impact on herd performance.
“Cleaner cubicles can contribute to lower somatic cell counts, fewer mastitis cases and, ultimately, improved milk quality,” said Neil. “Reducing mastitis also helps lower treatment costs and minimise disruption to the herd.”
As well as the health benefits for cows, there are welfare benefits too.
Sawdust provides a soft, comfortable surface that encourages cows to lie down for longer, supporting hoof health and allowing more time for rumination. By adding a high-quality lime and keeping the bedding drier, there is less risk of manure sticking to the cows’ coats and udders while they are lying down.
As with any bedding management system, the type and quantity of lime used is important. The lime powder sold by NW Resources is designed to improve hygiene without being unnecessarily harsh. Many farmers also top-dress cubicles regularly, with a fresh application of the lime powder and sawdust mix to maintain its effectiveness.
For farmers happy to mix their own bedding, blending quality sawdust with quality lime powder can be a practical and cost-effective way to improve cubicle hygiene while continuing to provide the comfort cows need and reducing your bedding costs at the same time.
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