The Challenge: Preventing Lameness and Improving Cow Comfort

Peter noticed early on that cows’ feet were wearing down on the concrete surfaces, particularly during wetter parts of the year when hoof health was more vulnerable. Having learned from their experience with a feed pad on their other farm, they recognized the need to mitigate this risk on their new 1.3-hectare facility. With a history of dealing with lameness, they knew that investing in rubber matting from day one was key to preventing long-term health issues in their herd.

“The risk was that if I hadn’t done anything, the lame cow numbers would have gone through the roof,” Peter explained. “For me, that’s a tick in the box.”

The Solution: Rubber Matting for the Dairy Yard, Shed, and Tracks

The rubber matting on the rotary platform was especially important for cow comfort during milking, with Peter noting how much easier it became to put the cups on. “The cows are more comfortable on the platform, and it’s easier to actually put the cups on.”

In addition, Peter highlighted how the mats improved cow flow on the tracks and feed pad. The cows were more willing to walk on the rubber-covered laneways, which meant less stress and fewer delays getting to the shed.

The Impact: Quieter Milking and Improved Cow Health

Since the installation, Peter has noticed several improvements. While he hasn’t tracked a significant reduction in lameness, the absence of an increase in lame cows is seen as a major success. The mats have provided peace of mind, particularly in preventing issues that could have escalated without them.

The mats also contributed to quieter, more efficient milking sessions, as the cows were calmer and more comfortable. This has been particularly beneficial during split calving and the wetter shoulder seasons, when cow hoof health tends to deteriorate.

“Cow’s feet don’t stand up as well over those periods as they might do mid-summer,” Peter said. “Putting those rubber mats on the laneways was a vast improvement in cow’s willingness to walk on it.”

Economic Considerations: Investing in the Future

Peter acknowledged that the decision to invest in rubber matting was not taken lightly. Economic conditions had been tight in recent months, but strong cash flow in the last two years had given them the opportunity to reinvest in their farm’s future. For Peter, this investment was about preparing for the long term.

“We opted to invest further into the farm so that we are ready for anything that might come our way over the next 10 years,” he said.

A Long-Term Solution for Efficiency and Comfort

By choosing Numat rubber matting, Peter and Kristy have improved their farm’s overall efficiency, cow comfort, and long-term productivity. The rubber mats have not only helped prevent potential health issues but have also enhanced cow flow and made milking a quieter, smoother process. For the Schoutens, the investment in rubber matting has provided peace of mind, knowing their cows are comfortable and their farm is set up for future success.