Winter is a particularly delicate period for young farm animals. Fragile, calves and lambs have difficulty coping with the cold and humidity. Terwagne, a specialist in farming equipment for calves and lambs, presents several solutions such as heat lamps, blankets, and insulating bedding to maintain a stable temperature and ensure the comfort of the youngest during the cold season.
Why keep a calf or lamb warm in winter?
Exposure to cold can have a direct impact on the health of young animals and the profitability of the farm. In fact, in the face of low temperatures, the calf or lamb expends much more energy to maintain its body heat, which hinders its growth. An animal that is cold does not gain weight properly. Furthermore, thermal stress weakens the immune system and increases the risk of respiratory diseases. Cold is also one of the factors of neonatal mortality.
This is why it is essential to be well-equipped to ensure comfort and protection for newborns on your farm.
What is the purpose of a heat lamp for calves and lambs?
The heat lamp for sheep and cattle is one of the most effective ways to provide a source of heat for newborns, especially during births in the middle of winter.
The infrared heat lamp emits radiant heat that directly warms the animal's skin, thus promoting its comfort and survival.
There are generally two types of lamps: classic models and economic models. Economic infrared lamps are often preferred because they emit uniform heat while consuming less energy.
Regarding the power, it varies between 150 and 250 watts depending on the animal: for a calf, a 250 W lamp is generally recommended, while a 150 W is sufficient for a lamb.
It is important to correctly position the heat lamp at a sufficient height to avoid any risk of burns. It should be securely fixed and protected by a reflector to ensure optimal safety.
Covers or coats to keep calves and lambs warm
Covers designed for calves and lambs are particularly useful during the first weeks of life or during periods of extreme cold.
They limit the loss of body heat and protect young animals from drafts, thus providing an additional insulating layer to the heat lamp.
Usually waterproof, easy to clean, and designed to offer great freedom of movement, these covers ensure comfort and protection for newborns while facilitating the work of the farmer.
Choose bedding that offers good thermal comfort for calves and lambs
Installing quality bedding is essential to keep calves and lambs warm during winter. Straw and shavings are recommended as they effectively retain heat while absorbing moisture.
Make sure to renew it regularly to maintain a dry floor and avoid cold sensations.
A thick, clean, and well-maintained bedding constitutes a true natural thermal mattress, ensuring comfort and well-being for young animals during the cold season.
Need to know more about farming equipment for calves and lambs?
Terwagne offers a wide range of equipment dedicated to newborn farming: heat lamps, infrared bulbs, covers, and insulating bedding. Contact our team via the online form or by phone to ask your questions and obtain personalized advice on choosing farming equipment.
