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As the temperatures drop across Western North Carolina, livestock producers face the yearly challenge of keeping animals comfortable, healthy, and productive through the coldest months. While winter weather can make chores tougher, a few simple management adjustments can make a big difference for both livestock and their caretakers — without breaking the bank.
Shelter: Block the Wind, Not the Air
Wind chill is one of the biggest threats to livestock in winter. Animals can tolerate cold temperatures surprisingly well, but cold wind and dampness quickly increase energy needs and stress.
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Windbreaks are key. Simple barriers like round bales, wooden pallets, stacked boards, or even a line of evergreens can protect animals from harsh winds.
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Three-sided sheds facing away from prevailing winds provide excellent shelter for cattle, goats, and sheep. Good ventilation is just as important — trapped moisture can lead to respiratory problems.
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Bedding such as dry straw, pelleted bedding or wood shavings adds insulation and comfort. Keep it clean and dry to prevent frostbite and foot issues.
Feed: Fuel for Warmth
When animals are cold, they burn more energy to stay warm.
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Increase feed or forage availability during cold spells. Ruminants generate body heat through digestion, so giving cattle, sheep, and goats plenty of good-quality hay helps maintain body temperature naturally.
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Keep mineral and salt blocks accessible — proper nutrition supports strong immune systems and healthy coats.
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Feeding in the late afternoon or evening can help livestock stay warmer overnight, as digestion produces internal heat for several hours.
Water: Keep It Flowing
Frozen water can quickly turn into a health issue. Animals that can’t drink enough may reduce feed intake and lose condition.
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Heated water buckets or automatic waterers can save a lot of time and frustration.
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If power isn’t available, rubber tubs are easier to break ice out of than rigid plastic ones.
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Floating a small ball (like a tennis ball) in troughs can help prevent surface ice from forming on mild freeze nights.
Farm Hacks: Save Time in the Cold
Working smarter — not harder — keeps chores manageable when temperatures drop. Here are some easy and low-cost tricks that make winter chores more efficient:
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Prep feed ahead of time: Fill buckets or feed carts the night before and store them in a sheltered area to save time during morning chores.
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Use frost-free hoses: Drain hoses completely or invest in heated hoses to avoid wrestling with frozen lines.
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Insulate gate latches: A bit of duct tape or foam pipe wrap can keep metal latches from freezing to gloves or fingers.
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Stock up early: Keep backup supplies (feed, bedding, salt) close to barns or shelters to avoid hauling long distances in bad weather.
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Plan lighting: Portable, rechargeable LED lights or headlamps make those early morning or late-night checks much easier and safer.
Monitor and Adapt
Watch your animals daily — their behavior will tell you if they’re cold or uncomfortable. Huddling, shivering, or decreased feed intake are warning signs. Young, thin, or sick animals will need extra attention and possibly additional bedding or shelter.
The Bottom Line
Keeping livestock warm in winter doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With wind protection, adequate feed and water, and a few time-saving tricks, farmers can ensure their animals stay healthy and comfortable while making winter chores more manageable.
For more information, contact the McDowell County Cooperative Extension Office at (828) 652-8104.
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