Autumn turns into winter quickly, and there’s lots of work to do to prepare a farm for winter. Winter is a hard time for farm animals in particular. Therefore, you need to dedicate some time to prepare them and their environment for the cold conditions. Keep reading to learn how to prepare your farm animals for winter this year.
Invest in Extra Food
Livestock, especially animals that typically forage for food in addition to the feed you give them, eat more in the winter to help maintain internal body temperatures. Since they can’t forage through the winter, you’ll need to invest in extra feed for them to help them get through the winter months. Try to find food specifically designed for winter diets. This will have the extra nutrients they need to stay healthy through the cold. Make sure you store this extra food in a safe place so that you can reach it even during inclement weather.
Check Your Water Supply
Not only will your animals eat more in the winter, but they’ll also need to drink more too. Their bodies are using more energy to stay warm, as we mentioned above, which means they need more fuel and water. Check your water supply before winter sets in to ensure that your animals will have the access they need to clean, safe water. Even if your area receives regular snowfall or stays cold enough that you can put ice blocks out, you still need to ensure your animals have clean liquid water to drink.
Prepare Your Barn
There’s a lot you can do to prepare your barn for winter, especially if your barn also houses some of your livestock. Do a deep clean before winter sets in so that your animals will stay safe and healthy. Use this cleaning time to check your building over as well. Make sure there are no weak spots in the roof that could collapse in inclement weather, check that the doors open easily, and ensure that you have storage space for everything you need. Check for loose nails and boards in the floor and walls as well. This way, you won’t have to worry about injuring yourself or your animals. Remember to turn your heaters on at least once before winter sets in, and check ventilation systems as well. You’ll have time to make repairs before the weather gets too cold.
Preparing your farm animals for winter is an arduous task with a long checklist, but it’s important. Your animals are expensive investments and crucial parts of your farm and lifestyle. Keeping them safe through the cold months means you can continue to reap their benefits and maintain your lifestyle.