Calf Hutch Dimensions & Regulations

calf hutch dimensions

In order to guarantee the welfare of your newborn calves, the code of Recommendations for the Welfare of Livestock has been published. This code has been put in place in order to encourage all those who care for animals to follow the highest standards possible. One of the most important factors in animal welfare are the calf hutch dimensions. The framework around the welfare for cattle has been developed by Farm Animal Welfare Council and is know as the ‘5 Freedoms’. These freedoms are:

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst
2. Freedom from discomfort
3. Freedom from pain, injury or disease
4. Freedom to express normal behaviour
5. Freedom from fear and distress

The Topcalf calf hutches are developed according to these principles. In order to ensure that calves feel comfortable, have less chance of diseases and are able to express normal behaviour our calf hutches are respecting the appropriate bedding and dimensions.

what size should calf pens be?

In the first 7 weeks of a calf’s life, it may be held in a individual pen. Calves are most vulnerable for diseases in this period and therefore it is important that they cannot physically touch other calves. This way the spread of diseases will be minimized.

The minimum width of a calf hutch should be at least equal to the height of the calf at the withers. Next to that, the length of the pen should be at least the body length of the calf, multiplied by 1.1. At all times a calf should be able to stand up, turn around, lie down and rest without any hindrance.

In order for calves to develop social skills every individual stall or pen should have vision hatches which allows the calves to have direct visual and tactile contact.

group housing dimensions

After the first 8 weeks a calf is not allowed to be confined in an individual calf hutch. Unless a veterinary surgeon recommends you to do so. Calves that are confined in groups have different space allowances.

• Calves with a weight of less than 150 kg should have at least 1,5 square metres.
• At least 2 square meters for calves with a weight of more than 150 kg but less than 200 kg
• A calf with a weight of 200 kg or more is allowed to have 3 square meters.

appropriate living environment

Besides the restriction with respect to calf hutch dimensions, the dairy farmer should take into account the other factors that impact a calf’s well-being. Young calves are susceptible to pneumonia, which means that ventilation should be of high standard.

Your calves have the right to live and sleep on a dry, well-drained bed. Besides, the calf rearing system should be well ventilated and draught free.

our calf hutch sizes