How to Keep Livestock Warm in Extreme Cold

Without the proper care and supervision during extremely cold temperatures, livestock can become sick and die. The worst weather for any kind of livestock during the cold months of winter is freezing rain, especially if the wind is blowing. Keeping your livestock dry, well fed and watered is a must, if you want to keep your animals warm and safe when it's extremely cold outdoors.

Things You'll Need

  • Shelter
  • Water
  • Nutrient rich food
  • Blankets
  • Tank heater
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide adequate shelter, like a barn or shed, for your livestock. A shelter must provide good ventilation so the air seems fresh, sufficient space for all animals or overcrowding and even trampling can occur and dry bedding to keep the animals warm and protected from the outdoor elements.

    • 2

      Provide fresh, unfrozen water for your livestock multiple times per day. During extremely cold weather, water freezes very easily. If water is not provided, many animals will not eat and will not gain needed nutrients and energy required to protect themselves from the cold winter elements. Provide water that has been warmed up to at least 37 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 3

      Provide your livestock nutrient rich food. Feed your livestock high-quality forages and grains, as high-quality forage rations provide more heat for livestock during extreme cold.

    • 4

      Place individual blankets on each animal. Blankets help retain an animal's natural body heat. Remove the blanket immediately if any part of the blanket closest to the animal becomes wet.