Intake and behaviour of cattle at different feed barriers

Abstract

Feed barriers and mangers form an integral part of a cattle housing system. Their role is to prevent the animals’ wasting feed by scattering it or by walking and defecating over it. Feed barriers generally effect a better distribution of feed and should allow individuals adequate and ready access. Often they have a dual role and act as the side of a pen. These functions are often achieved with some regard to several managerial objectives; simplicity of feed distribution, labour economy, the regulation of excessive animal activity, minimal feed wastage and promotion of animal comfort.Time spent at the feed barrier depends on the feedstuff, the rate of eating by the animal, space allocation, and the accessibility of the feed. Depending on the feed barrier design the animal may need to exert some force to reach the food. Injuries arise in those situations where large forces are exerted against the barrier and/or accommodating postures (ie kneeling or other) are adopted to reach the food. In extreme cases intake may be restricted. Thus, to assure maximum intake and minimise injuries the feed must be within the easy reach of the animal. Two trials with Friesian heifers compared the performance of 4 types of feed barrier.