Discover the benefits of rearing calves outdoors in Calf-Tel hutches, supported by a robust hygiene routine, quality feeding systems, and rumen-development setups for optimal calf health and growth.
Introduction
Raising strong, healthy calves is the cornerstone of a productive dairy or beef herd. Increasing numbers of farmers are choosing Calf-Tel hutches for outdoor calf rearing, recognising the wide range of benefits this system offers. From improved airflow and disease control to better hygiene and early rumen development, Calf-Tel hutches—when paired with effective cleaning regimes and smart feeding setups—can significantly enhance calf health outcomes and farm efficiency.
1. The Outdoor Advantage: Fresh Air, Better Health
Outdoor calf rearing provides a natural, low-stress environment for young animals. Calf-Tel hutches are designed with ventilation and durability in mind, offering calves ample fresh air while protecting them from adverse weather conditions.
This setup helps to reduce the accumulation of airborne pathogens, leading to fewer respiratory issues and a better immune response, particularly in the critical early weeks of life.
2. Calf-Tel Hutches: Safe, Comfortable, and Easy to Manage
Calf-Tel hutches are a preferred choice among farmers due to their high-quality materials, UV resistance, and easy cleaning access. The versatile range of hutches can accommodate both individual and group housing, helping to limit cross-contamination between calves and making it easier to monitor feed intake and health indicators.
Each unit provides:
• Safe containment with visibility
• Comfortable lying areas with good drainage
• Excellent ventilation to reduce heat stress
3. Hygiene is Key: Clean Between Batches with Cyclex and Ecofoam Advanced
Maintaining a strict hygiene regime between calf batches is crucial for controlling disease. Two premium products that deliver outstanding results are:
• Cyclex Disinfectant: A broad-spectrum disinfectant effective against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Ideal for deep cleaning hutches and feeding equipment between batches.
• Ecofoam Advanced Cleaner: A powerful foaming detergent that removes organic matter such as manure and milk residue, preparing surfaces for disinfection.
Recommended Cleaning Routine Between Calves:
- Remove bedding and debris
- Apply Ecofoam Advanced and allow sufficient contact time
- Rinse thoroughly
- Disinfect with Cyclex, ensuring full surface coverage
- Dry completely before replacing bedding and reintroducing calves
This routine reduces disease risk and fosters a healthier environment for each new calf.
4. Feed and Water Access: The Basics Done Right
Calves require easy access to clean, fresh water and high-quality feed from the outset. Using individual feed and water buckets in each Calf-Tel pen helps monitor intake and prevent contamination.
Key tips for optimal feeding setups:
• Use raised, sturdy bucket holders to prevent tipping
• Clean buckets daily to avoid bacterial buildup
• Provide high-energy calf starter early to encourage solid feed intake
5. Encouraging Rumen Development: Fresh Straw Racks Matter
Early rumen development is vital for successful weaning and long-term performance. Providing calves with access to fresh, dry straw encourages natural foraging behaviour and stimulates rumen papillae growth.
Installing a rack or hay feeder in each hutch ensures:
• Straw stays clean and dry
• Calves have constant access
• Encouragement of nibbling from an early age
This small addition can have a significant impact on transitioning calves to solid feed and promoting early rumen function.
Conclusion
Rearing calves outdoors in Calf-Tel hutches, combined with a robust hygiene protocol, proper feed and water systems, and tools for rumen development, lays the perfect foundation for raising healthy, resilient calves. From disease prevention to optimal growth, every detail matters—attention to these best practices will pay off in the long term with better-performing animals and fewer health setbacks.