Why nutrition matters more during cold weather

Cattle, sheep and goats are generally more tolerant of cold weather than poultry due to their larger body mass and the heat generated through rumen fermentation. However, prolonged exposure to cold, wind and rain can still have a significant impact on productivity and profitability.

Cold stress occurs when environmental temperatures fall below an animal’s lower critical temperature. At this point, animals require additional energy.

Increased energy demands

Research indicates that energy requirements can increase by:

• 10-15% during moderate cold stress.
• More than 30% during severe cold, wet and windy conditions.

If these increased requirements are not met, producers may observe:

• Weight loss.
• Reduced growth rates.
• Lower milk production.
• Poor reproductive performance.
• Reduced immune function.
• Declining body condition.

Young stock, lactating females and thin animals are especially vulnerable.

Cold weather and grazing quality

During colder months, veld quality declines across many parts of South Africa.

As grasses mature and become dormant, they contain:

• Less protein.
• Less energy.
• Lower digestibility.

This directly affects rumen microbes, reducing forage digestion and limiting nutrient availability.

Animals may continue grazing normally while still failing to meet their nutritional requirements.

Strategic supplementation makes the difference

Supplementation becomes especially important during periods of cold weather.

Providing the correct balance of:

• Energy
• Protein
• Vitamins
• Minerals

helps maintain body condition, improve forage utilisation and support productivity.

Protein supplementation is particularly valuable because it supports rumen microbes, improves fibre digestion and increases nutrient availability from poor-quality grazing.

Monitor body condition

Body condition scoring is one of the most valuable management tools available during periods of cold weather.

Animals entering the breeding season or spring in poor condition often experience:

• Lower conception rates.
• Reduced fertility.
• Lower milk production.
• Slower recovery after lambing or calving.

Regular monitoring allows producers to adjust feeding programmes before performance declines.

Practical cold weather management tips

During periods of cold weather, producers should:

• Provide quality feed and clean water.
• Adjust rations to meet increased energy requirements.
• Provide shelter from wind and rain where possible.
• Monitor body condition regularly.
• Keep bedding and housing dry.
• Minimise unnecessary handling during extreme weather.
• Pay particular attention to young and vulnerable animals.

Good management today supports future performance

Cold weather management is about more than helping animals cope with lower temperatures. The decisions made during these periods directly influence future productivity, reproductive performance and profitability.

Animals that maintain good body condition are better prepared for breeding, make better use of improved grazing conditions, and are more likely to achieve their production targets.

By understanding the effects of cold stress and implementing proactive nutrition and management practices, producers can protect animal health, improve productivity and maximise profitability throughout periods of cold weather.

Technical input by Shanna Moorcroft, National Ruminant Specialist, EPOL.

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