Ludhiana Dairy Farmers Must Shield Cattle from Biting Cold, Say Experts
As a severe cold wave continues to grip Ludhiana and surrounding regions, veterinary experts are sounding the alarm. They stress that dairy farmers must give equal attention to protecting their cattle and animals. People struggle to keep warm, but animals housed in dairies face similar risks.
Immediate Shelter Precautions Are Critical
Dr Yashpal Singh, head of the department of livestock production management at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, issued a detailed advisory. He warned that negligence during these extreme winter conditions can have serious consequences. Animals may experience stress, illness, and a significant drop in milk yield.
Most dairy animals in the area live in open housing systems with only basic sheds. Dr Singh noted these are insufficient during prolonged cold wave spells. He urged farmers to take immediate action.
"During such harsh winter conditions, it is essential that dairies install curtains, plastic sheets or other protective covers around sheds," Dr Singh said. These measures block cold winds that could severely affect animals' comfort and immunity. Exposure makes them vulnerable to respiratory and other health problems.
Sunlight and Ventilation Balance
Dr Singh emphasized the importance of sunlight for animal welfare. He told dairy owners to ensure adequate sunshine reaches animal sheds during the day. Farmers should trim trees and overgrown vegetation around dairies to allow maximum sunlight penetration.
"Sunlight not only provides natural warmth, but also acts as a disinfectant, reducing the chances of infections," he explained. Animals should be exposed to sunlight whenever the weather is clear and sunny.
However, he cautioned farmers to maintain a balance. While blocking cold air is necessary, enough open space must remain to ensure proper ventilation inside the sheds.
Keep Floors Dry and Warm
Clean and dry flooring is another critical factor in protecting animals during winter. Dr Singh pointed out that damp and wet floors increase cold stress for animals. They also raise the risk of infections and hoof problems.
He advised covering concrete floors with adequate bedding material. Options include paddy straw, wheat straw, rice husk, or dried leaves. This provides insulation and comfort for the cattle. In extremely cold conditions, farmers can also tie blankets around animals to help them retain body heat.
Nutrition and Water Management
Nutrition plays a crucial role in helping animals cope with cold stress. Dr Singh explained that animals require additional energy during winter to maintain their body temperature. "Cattle should be given leguminous fodder to meet their protein requirements during this period," he added.
Dr Singh provided a recommended feeding schedule for farmers. For an animal producing around 10 kg of milk per day, the diet should include:
- 20-25 kg of barseem
- 5-10 kg of wheat straw
- About three kg of concentrate feed
The concentrate should include a mineral mixture along with 1% salt to ensure balanced nutrition. If sufficient barseem is available, farmers can give about 40 kg of this fodder.
Water management is equally important during cold weather. Dr Singh advised that, wherever possible, animals should receive clean, lukewarm water. This helps maintain their hydration and overall health without adding to their cold stress.
The GADVASU advisory aims to help Ludhiana's dairy farmers sustain milk production and safeguard animal health through the ongoing cold wave. Implementing these measures can prevent losses and ensure the well-being of valuable livestock.
