It was recently brought to my attention that every winter, well-meaning but uninformed citizens raise concerns about beef cattle that are raised out doors. Most of these concerns have no merit. However, as a care taker of animals, you need to understand what affects the comfort of your cattle and address deficiencies, if they exist.

An article over-viewing the biology of cattle and under what conditions they do not need housing can be found here. In summary:

• Beef cattle are able to withstand cold stress because:
  • Rumen fermentation of forage produces body heat
  • There is increased insulation provided by body fat, thick skin and heavy hair coat – think about the snow that accumulates on her back
  • Large body size to hold heat
  • Cattle naturally seek natural windbreaks and shelter
  • Cattle will stand and huddle which conserves heat

Additional resources:

http://smallfarms.oregonstate.edu/sfn/w08livestock

https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/publications/livestock/winter-management-of-the-beef-cow-herd