When the weather turns cold, wet, or just plain miserable, one of the things I think about most is how our cows are handling it. Cattle are tough animals, but that doesn’t mean they should be left to battle wind, rain, and freezing temperatures without relief—especially when it comes time to eat.
At Full Circle Farms, providing a sheltered place for our cows to feed is a small decision that makes a big difference in their health, comfort, and overall well-being.
Feeding Is When Cows Are Most Vulnerable
Cows spend a lot of their day moving, grazing, and staying warm through activity. But when they stop to eat, they’re standing still—often with their heads down and their bodies exposed. In cold rain or biting wind, that’s when weather can really take a toll.
A sheltered feeding area helps protect them during those moments when they’re most vulnerable. It allows them to eat without fighting the elements, which means they can focus on what matters: getting the nutrition they need.
Comfort Supports Health
When cows are cold and wet, their bodies have to work harder just to maintain warmth. That extra energy comes at a cost. Instead of using nutrients to maintain body condition, grow, or stay healthy, they’re burning calories just to stay warm.
By giving them shelter during feeding, we help reduce that stress. Dry, protected cows are better able to convert feed into energy, maintain weight, and stay healthy through the winter months. It’s a practical way to support their immune systems and overall condition.
Better Feeding Means Less Waste
Shelter isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about efficiency. Wind and rain can ruin hay quickly, leading to wasted feed and muddy feeding areas. A sheltered spot helps keep feed dry and accessible, which means less waste and cleaner conditions for the herd.
Cleaner feeding areas also reduce the risk of hoof problems and illness that can come from standing in mud for long periods of time.
Caring for Animals Is Part of Good Stewardship
For us, farming has always been about stewardship—of the land, the animals, and the resources we’ve been entrusted with. Providing shelter during tough weather isn’t about coddling cattle; it’s about responsible care.
When we make thoughtful choices like this, we’re setting our animals up to thrive, not just survive. And healthier animals mean a healthier farm in the long run.
Cold and wet days are part of life on the farm. Making sure our cows have a sheltered place to eat is one of the ways we show care, intention, and respect for the animals that depend on us every day.
Support our small family farm by subscribing to our YouTube channel here. If you believe in what we’re doing, your comments and thumbs up inspire us to keep going. Thank you!
