19 February 2025

Calf housing tips to maximise performance

Teagasc DairyBeef 500 Advisor, Tommy Cox discusses calf housing to maximise performance on this week’s Beef Edge podcast.

Tommy says that good ventilation, adequate space, good drainage and warm sheds that are clean and comfortable are essential. With natural ventilation used in the vast majority of calf houses, Tommy explains that a balance of achieving adequate ventilation while avoiding draughts is a must. On the space allowance, Tommy recommends providing 2.0-2.3m² pen area per calf.

Good drainage within the calf shed is something that is often overlooked and, as calves spend about 80% of their time lying sown, they require a dry bed. A dry environment will also reduce the spread and growth of bugs. All calf houses should be built with a damp-proof course to prevent rising dampness. A slope of 1:20 in the calf pen area is also recommended

Calves perform best at 15-20 degree Celsius, but they don’t generate sufficient heat to insulate themselves from colder temperatures until after they are weaned. Deep beds of straw are effective in protecting calves from the cold.

Hygiene is obviously another very important. Floors and walls should be easily cleaned.

Listen in below:

The Teagasc Beef Edge podcast is produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com. For more episodes and information, visit the Beef Edge podcast show page.