Recommendations for Post-Flood Cow Mattress Management 2

Recommendations for Post-Flood Cow Mattress Management 2

 Implementation Suggestions and Considerations   

1. Necessity of Post-Disaster Basic Treatment:  

   Even if rubber mats are chosen, the steps of "sediment removal → rinsing → drainage and drying → disinfection" after a disaster remain essential and must be carried out thoroughly! Rubber mats are installed on a clean and dry foundation. Otherwise, the mud and pathogens beneath the mats will become a continuous source of contamination.  

2. Higher Requirements for Ground Foundation:  

   Level and Sturdy : The ground (usually concrete) where rubber mats are installed must be very level, sturdy, without subsidence or large cracks. Floods may damage the ground foundation, so it is crucial to carefully inspect and repair it to meet standards before installation. An uneven surface will cause uneven stress on the rubber mats, accelerating wear and tear or even causing damage, and may also lead to water accumulation in low-lying areas.  

   Excellent Drainage : The drainage slope of the ground beneath the rubber mats must be precise (typically recommended at 2–4%) to ensure that rinse water and urine are quickly drained away. There must be no water accumulation under the mats, as this can become a breeding ground for bacteria, produce odors, and corrode both the mats and the ground. After a disaster, special attention should be paid to checking whether the ground drainage performance has been compromised.  

3. Choosing High-Quality and Suitable Rubber Mats:  

   Material and Craftsmanship : Select high-quality rubber mats specifically designed for cow mattresses, featuring wear resistance, anti-slip properties (textured surface), UV resistance, no odor, and compliance with food safety standards. Products that are integrally molded or use large-piece splicing (with fewer and well-treated seams) are preferable.  

   Thickness and Elasticity : Sufficient thickness (typically ≥40mm) provides good cushioning and comfort.  

4. Professional Installation:  

   Installation must be carried out by suppliers or experienced professionals. Ensure:  

   The mats are laid flat, without wrinkles or bulges.  

   Seams (if any) are tightly and evenly treated (using specialized adhesives or connectors) to prevent the seepage of manure and urine and bacterial growth.  

   The junctions between the mats and breast boards or edges are well-sealed.  

5. Daily Maintenance Management is Crucial:  

   Regular Cleaning : Promptly scrape off manure from the mattresses. This is the foundation for maintaining the hygiene of rubber mattresses.  

   Regular Thorough Rinsing and Disinfection : Use high-pressure water guns for thorough rinsing daily or at least every two days. Perform comprehensive disinfection with disinfectants weekly or as needed. Increase the frequency of disinfection during hot and humid seasons or periods of high disease incidence. Pay special attention to rinsing seams and edges.  

   Inspection and Maintenance : Regularly check the rubber mats for damage, curling edges, or seam cracks. Promptly repair or replace damaged parts to prevent issues from escalating and becoming sanitation dead spots. Check for signs of water accumulation underneath the mats.  

6. Possible Transition and Cow Adaptation:  

   Cows may need a short adaptation period (a few days to a week) when transitioning from soft bedding (especially sand beds) to rubber mats. Ensure the rubber mats are sufficiently comfortable (meeting thickness and elasticity standards) and closely observe the cows' lying and rising behaviors and acceptance during the initial days. Sprinkling a small amount of dry, loose bedding (such as sawdust) on the rubber mats can sometimes help cows adapt more quickly.  

7. Cost Considerations:  

   The initial investment cost for rubber mattresses is significantly higher than that of traditional bedding (especially sand). It is necessary to calculate long-term returns (savings on bedding costs, reduced labor and equipment costs for bedding management, potential increases in milk production, reduced treatment costs for mastitis/hoof diseases, and the convenience of post-disaster recovery).