Good bedding is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to improve calf health. Deep straw bedding can reduce diseases like pneumonia, scours, and poor growth. Calves spend about 20 hours a day lying down, so clean and dry bedding helps them stay warm and use feed for growth instead of body heat—especially in cold weather.
Straw is the best option because it is absorbent and provides good insulation. Bedding should be at least 3 inches deep, clean, and dry. Farmers can use the “kneel test”: kneel for 20 seconds—if your knees get wet, add or replace straw.
The nesting score system shows how much bedding is enough. A score of 3, where a calf’s legs are fully covered, is ideal. Proper bedding keeps calves healthy, cuts treatment costs, and supports strong growth. Read more