Thinking about Rubber Floors?

Numerous producers have installed rubber mats/strips in both existing & new facilities in recent years. Depending whom you speak with, a variety of opinions are expressed. Here are some thoughts worth considering before you invest in this cow comfort measure.

In the early 1990's, some producers began installing 6ft strips of rubber adjacent to the feedbunk curb, the thought being that increased comfort would increase the duration of visit to the feed table. While it may have done that, it also created many disruptions during feeding as cattle clearly prefer the rubber surface to concrete for walking as well. Those simply walking the alley compete for the rubber surface and disrupt those eating.

Despite the number of positive comments one might hear to date there isn't any "concrete" data that details research & economics of rubber floors. Logic suggests that if cows are more comfortable, they will produce more and last longer - however research needs to confirm that this investment will net a return. Many producers that have made the investment have opted for the "all or nothing" approach, installing rubber in complete alleys, cross-overs, holding areas, cow decks of parlour and return lanes.

In some situations, producers that have installed rubber in existing facilities sighting awesome results may need to acknowledge that the rubber simply acts as a bandage for poor concrete surfaces that may have had little/poor/no grooves, or an extemely rough surface with exposed aggregate, etc.

When considering a manure scraper, tractors and skid-steers are not recommended. Automated mechanical scrappers are the ideal solution. Still it's wise to investigate and invest in a system that utilizes silicone or rubber wear-strips on the bottom of the scraper blades/wings. These wear strips effectively act as a squeegee on the rubber surface and are gentle on the joints between the rubber mats or strips. Several manufactures now offer this feature.

Concerning hoof health/growth, both producers and vets have expressed varied opinions on the effect that rubber floors have. Some suggest that the growth slows as the hoof responds to less wear and thereby less need for replenishment, while others suggest they experience increased frequency of required trimming due to "steady-state" growth without wear. It's likely that genetics plays a role as some "soft" feet require steady trimming, especially if they receive no wear, while "harder" footed cows may not require any extra trimming.

Be certain that freestalls are kept clean, dry & comfortable. Any design flaws in the stalls will become much more noticeable with rubber floors. That is to say, expect cows to be much more predisposed to laying down in the alley-ways if they cannot lay or get up comfortable in the stalls.

Posted Jan 9th

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