Winter Management of Beef Cattle

Many regions of Canada experience extended periods of cold weather during the year and these environmental conditions present challenges for efficiently and profitably raising beef cattle. Understanding the impact cold stress can have on the health, welfare and performance of cattle is important, along with implementing management practices to lessen the impact.

Beef cattle are fed over winter using a variety of methods. The complexity and mechanization will be unique to the individual operation and management goals. However, the overall objective is to maintain cows in good body condition so they remain healthy and productive even in the coldest of conditions.

When Does Cold Stress Occur for Beef Cattle?

Cattle experience what is called the effective temperature, which is a function of both air temperature and windchill. The relationship between effective temperature and wind chill is illustrated in the below figure. Heat loss is greater as wind speed increases due to cool or cold wind drawing heat away from the animal much quicker than still air at the same temperature.

Cold stress occurs when the effective temperature drops below the lower critical temperature (LCT). This is the temperature below which cattle in good body condition will begin to experience cold stress and their metabolism increases to keep themselves warm. Table 1 shows the estimated LCT for mature beef cattle with varying coat conditions.