Monday, November 3, 2025
Winter Livestock Care
Winter in Washington state brings diverse challenges for farmers and their livestock.
Temperatures and weather patterns vary widely across the state. Eastern Washington often endures harsher and more frequent freezes, while Western Washington typically experiences milder, wetter conditions with occasional cold snaps. Recognizing and addressing the signs of cold stress, such as shivering, huddling, and reduced feed intake, is essential for maintaining herd and flock health. Vulnerable animals, including the young, wet, elderly, or short-coated, require extra care and attention. The well-being of your animals depends on preparation, observation, and proactive management. The following guidelines can help keep your livestock healthy, comfortable, and productive throughout the winter months.1. Provide proper shelter
Farm animals are naturally resilient, but adequate shelter is vital for protecting them from wind, moisture, and extreme cold.
- Draft-free, well-ventilated structures: Allow for airflow to reduce humidity and ammonia buildup while blocking direct drafts.
- Dry, insulated bedding: Use straw, wood shavings, or other dry materials for warmth. Replace soiled bedding frequently to prevent moisture and bacterial growth.
- Sufficient space: Avoid overcrowding, which can lead to stress, respiratory issues, and disease spread. Each animal should have enough space to move, lie down, and rest comfortably.
- Windbreaks: Install natural or artificial barriers to shield outdoor animals from cold winds.
2. Keep water accessible and unfrozen
Dehydration is a common but often overlooked winter risk. Animals need a steady supply of clean, unfrozen water to maintain digestion, milk production, and overall health.
- Use heated waterers or trough heaters: Prevent ice buildup and ensure consistent access to water.
- Check daily: Inspect and clean water sources regularly to maintain flow and prevent contamination.
- Avoid snow and ice as substitutes: They do not provide adequate hydration and can lower body temperature further.
3. Boost nutrition
Cold weather increases energy demands as animals use calories to maintain body heat.
- Feed high-quality forage: Offer nutritious hay, silage, or other roughage to meet energy needs.
- Increase feed during cold spells: Provide supplemental grains or concentrates as temperatures drop.
- Mineral and salt blocks: Ensure access to essential minerals to support immune function and health.
- Monitor body condition: Adjust rations based on weight and activity level.
4. Monitor animal health closely
Winter can amplify existing health issues. Regular checks and preventive care are essential.
- Watch for warning signs: Shivering, lethargy, decreased appetite, or frostbite indicate cold stress.
- Maintain vaccinations and deworming: Prevent disease outbreaks that can spread quickly in confined conditions.
- Inspect hooves frequently: Wet, muddy areas can cause thrush and other hoof problems.
- Poultry care: Keep coops dry and draft-free, with adequate ventilation and wide roosts to protect toes from frostbite.
- Biosecurity: Limit visitor and vehicle traffic to prevent the introduction of pathogens.
5. Prepare for emergencies
Severe winter weather can disrupt power, water, and supply chains. Having a plan in place is essential.
- Stock up in advance: Keep extra feed, bedding, fuel, and medical supplies on hand.
- Backup power: Use generators to operate water pumps, heaters, and ventilation systems if power is lost.
- Emergency animal care kit: Include thermometers, blankets, electrolytes, and first-aid supplies.
- Communication plan: Maintain contact with veterinarians, neighbors, and emergency services.
6. Manage manure and runoff
Washington’s wet winters can create muddy, unsanitary conditions that affect both animal health and water quality.
- Control runoff: Use hay bales, silt fences, or vegetative buffers to reduce nutrient runoff.
- Compost manure properly: Store and compost manure under cover to prevent excess moisture and nutrient leaching.
- Maintain clean feeding areas: Rotate feeding sites to minimize mud buildup and hoof damage.
7. Tailor care to each livestock species
Different animals have unique needs during winter:
- Cattle: Provide windbreaks for outdoor herds; keep calving areas clean, dry, and protected.
- Sheep and goats: Protect fleece or coats from getting wet; increase feed during cold spells.
- Horses: Ensure blankets fit properly and maintain regular farrier visits to prevent hoof issues.
- Pigs: Insulate pens well—pigs are highly sensitive to cold and drafts.
- Chickens: Maintain coop ventilation to reduce moisture; prevent frostbite and respiratory problems with dry litter and roosts.
Government and local resources
Farmers affected by freezing events or other winter-related losses may qualify for federal or state assistance programs:
- USDA Programs:
- Insurance options: Livestock risk coverage is available through the USDA Risk Management Agency.
- State and local support: Contact your county extension office or the WSDA for local guidance, grants, or emergency response assistance.