Maximise feed efficiency & weight gain with ideal cattle shelters

Create the perfect environment for your cattle with robust, expandable shelters designed to enhance feed intake and weight gain.

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When raising healthy and productive cattle, the environment plays a significant role. Providing your livestock with an ideal shelter is not just about protecting them from the elements—it’s about enhancing their overall health, increasing feed efficiency, and boosting weight gain. Modern cattle shelters are designed to create a comfortable, clean, and well-ventilated space where cattle can thrive.

A good cattle shelter can drastically improve your livestock's quality of life by ensuring they stay dry, warm, and protected from extreme weather conditions. This creates a stable environment that supports their growth and development. With the right shelter, cattle can focus on eating and resting, which leads to better feed utilisation and weight gain.

Let’s explore how modern livestock shelters can improve feed efficiency and help cattle gain weight more effectively. Whether you're a farmer looking to upgrade your facilities or someone just starting, understanding the key factors that contribute to healthier livestock can make a significant difference to your bottom line.

How cattle shelters help improve feed efficiency and weight gain

Protection from extreme weather

Cattle shelters protect from extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, and intense heat. These weather conditions can cause significant stress to livestock, making it harder for them to regulate body temperature. When cattle are exposed to harsh conditions, they use their energy to keep warm or cool, which reduces the amount of energy available for growth. Shelters create a more stable and comfortable environment, reducing the need for cattle to expend energy on temperature regulation. This allows them to focus more on feeding and growing, ultimately improving feed efficiency and promoting better weight gain.

Better airflow and ventilation

Ventilation is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of cattle. Poor airflow in livestock housing can lead to high levels of ammonia and moisture, both of which can negatively affect the respiratory system and digestive health of cattle. This can result in reduced feed intake and inefficient weight gain. Livestock shelters are designed with effective ventilation systems that allow fresh air to circulate while expelling harmful gases and moisture. By improving air quality, shelters help prevent respiratory issues and promote better digestion, leading to more efficient feed conversion and enhanced weight gain.

Stress reduction

Cattle, like many animals, are sensitive to stress. Extreme weather conditions, overcrowding, and constant exposure to predators or loud noises can all cause cattle to feel stressed. Stress leads to a decrease in feed intake, which negatively impacts growth and weight gain. Livestock shelters help reduce stress by providing a calm and controlled environment. By protecting livestock from extreme weather, offering more space, and reducing the risk of overcrowding, shelters create a relaxed atmosphere. Less stress means cattle are more likely to consume the right amount of feed and gain weight at a healthier, more consistent rate.

Increased feeding time

When cattle are housed in open fields or inadequate shelters, they may not be able to feed as consistently due to weather disruptions. For example, cattle may be less likely to eat during heavy rain, strong winds, or extreme heat, leading to reduced feed intake. With a shelter, cattle can feed without worrying about adverse weather conditions. This extended feeding time allows them to eat more consistently, helping them consume the necessary nutrients for growth and weight gain. Sheltered cattle tend to rest more comfortably, improving their digestion and nutrient absorption, and better enhancing their feed efficiency.

FAQs

What is the ideal size of a cattle shelter for optimal feed efficiency?

The ideal size of a cattle shelter depends on the number of cattle you have and the amount of space each animal needs for comfortable feeding and resting. Ensuring your cattle have enough space to move freely without overcrowding is key to improving feed intake and weight gain.

Are Agri Span cattle shelters suitable for all weather conditions?

Yes, Agri Span livestock shelters are designed to withstand a wide range of weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and snow. Their robust construction ensures your cattle are always protected from the elements, providing a safe environment for improved feed efficiency and weight gain.

Can Agri Span shelters be relocated if needed?

Yes, Agri Span shelters are designed to be easily relocated. They can be packed down and moved without the need for permanent fixings, making them a versatile and flexible solution for farmers who need to move their livestock housing to different locations

How McGregor Agri Span’s key features improve feed efficiency and weight gain

McGregor Agri Span’s livestock housing structures are designed to optimise feed efficiency and enhance weight gain for your cattle. Here’s how the key features of Agri Span can support your farming goals:

Modular design for future expansion

The modular design allows you to expand your cattle shelter as your herd grows. This ensures your livestock have sufficient space, reducing overcrowding and allowing for increased feed intake and weight gain. With the ability to join multiple units, you can easily scale your shelter to meet your farm's needs.

Rapid deployment for immediate use

With McGregor Agri Span shelters, you don’t have to wait months to use your livestock structure. You can have a fully functional cattle shelter in place within just a few days. This rapid deployment means your cattle are quickly protected from the elements, leading to less stress and better feed conversion.

Re-deployable for flexibility

Agri Span shelters are designed to be re-deployable, so if you need to move your shelter to a new location or relocate your herd, it’s easy to pack down and move. This flexibility ensures that your cattle always have access to the best possible environment, regardless of changes in your farming needs.

Weather protection and durability

Built to withstand extreme weather conditions, Agri Span shelters are rigorously tested to European standards for wind and snow loadings. With reliable protection from the elements, your cattle can continue to feed, rest, and grow without the stress of inclement weather, ultimately improving feed efficiency.

Cost-effective long-term solution

McGregor Agri Span’s livestock shelters are a cost-effective investment for long-term cattle management. The low initial investment, combined with minimal ongoing maintenance costs, ensures that you can continue to provide your cattle with the best possible environment for feed efficiency and weight gain.