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The cow scratching post is made into different types based on the various preferences regarding the post's type, the method of change, and the way cows use them. That is how they all can be divided based on their animals' physical and behavioral needs. Traditionally, the farm supply scratching posts intended for use with large herded animals like cows are as follows:
Manual scratching boards
These types of scratching boards, also known as scratching pads, require farmers to put in the effort to help the cows scratch their bodies. Cows usually get a lot of help from these boards because some farmers use curly hagen to create scratching boards for their cows in the barn. Some of them use tools to fasten them to the wall. One thing I sensed is that farmers need to put in some effort to install these boards on the ground or on the wall where they wish to fix them.
Fixed scratching posts
These posts are fixed and stable, meaning that they cannot be moved or relocated. They are mostly made out of metal, wood, or heavy plastics, and provide a rough surface for the cow to scratch on. The toilets everyone's been waiting for are typically placed in dry areas or in regions where cows spend most of their time, like barns or milking parlors.
Mobile scratching bars
These bars can be removed, hence the name scratching bars, and can be placed where it's most convenient at any given time. Some cows have been known to have more fun with the scratching bar as they are likely to be made out of materials that are pleasant for the cows' skin to touch. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them easier to move around.
Hanging scratching mats
These mats are the same ones that are suspended from the frames or other structures. The mats are often made from materials that are rough to touch so that the cows can easily use them to scratch themselves. Mats hung up in the air are easy to fix on the ground in areas that are ideal for the cows to access.
Material convenience
The material of choice determines the durability of scratching posts the most. Ever heard of metal bars? They usually last longer than any wooden or plastic structures. Wood features a cozy environment for bacteria, though it is pretty strong, and it will inevitably break down in ten to twelve years. For the plastic kind, it is about five to six years before wear and tear sets in.
Build quality
Scratching posts with handmade quality construction are bound to be as durable as their mass-produced counterparts. Attention given at the joint between the frame and the base of the structure, as well as the type of fastener used in the assembly, will affect how long the post can survive.
Exposure to elements
Scratching posts used outdoors are likely to face the test of time compared to those inside barns, given that they have to withstand rain, snow, UV rays, and other extreme temperature conditions. Good-quality paint or varnish helps prevent the scratching post from getting spoilt by external factors.
Animal behavior
The more vigorous the cow is during scratching, the more likely that cow-scratching posts will endure a lot of abuse. Items made from rough materials will stand the scratching post sees better but can be harmful to the cows.
Improving cow comfort
In outdoor farming conditions, a cow scratching post creates a more relaxed environment for cows, which is crucial, especially when the herd is under stress. Failure to provide a cow's basic scratching needs can lead one to hypothesize that some cows will feel uncomfortable with the available resources, and some will develop health problems as a means of making the body realize its irritation. This discomfort can be pretty pronounced, especially when licking or scratching posts designed for larger animals is the only area where a cow can relieve itself.
Supporting animal welfare
Consumer interest in animal welfare is another significant trend in agri-food systems. A scratching device in farming contributes to the animals' psychological well-being since it gives them a chance to fulfill their natural behavior. This reduces the incidence of issues related to animal welfare, such as bloat, mastitis, and poor animal welfare. Other tools are meant to meet animal welfare requirements to avoid penalties for welfare breaches further along the process.
Boosting milk production
Installing scratching posts around the dairy farm helps improve milk production and crude protein in the milk. So cows will feel more comfortable and satisfied, and they will produce more milk and of higher quality.
Reducing disease incidence
Providing adequate scratching facilities reduces the need for farmers to treat disease, which otherwise would have required a prescription. This reduces the incidence of disease, such as mastitis or parasites, which require medication to treat. Fewer diseases mean a reduction in the disease burden and, therefore, less need for antibiotics or anti-inflammatories. This has economic benefits for farmers and helps protect the efficacy of antibiotics within all health systems and, therefore, within society as a whole.
Reducing the need for medical interventions
So, scratching posts are not just there to boost the cows' well-being but are intended to be practical in problem prevention. Resources like these minimize problems with parasites, skin infections, and other diseases and their associated treatment costs.
Durable material
Posts must be made from enduring materials—metals or hard-weathered wood. The smoother the surface, the less likely the post will wear down.
Stable structure
The runner should withstand crucial interactions. Check the stability of the post to ensure it does not wobble or fall off.
Height
The post provided must be convenient for all cows. It should allow the cows to scratch themselves without much effort, especially on their backs. The more towering the post, the better, because stretchers use it, especially if the cows are used to stretching a lot.
Rough surface
The rougher the scratching surface, the better. What will you do instead? It will provide the cow with a better scratching experience. Smooth surfaces will wear out faster.
Ease of maintenance
To make sure that everyday work, cleaning, and maintenance of scratching posts are not difficult, a farmer should position them in some places that are easy to clean. Surfaces that can be easily disinfected or replaced when the need arises are the most desirable.
Mobile or fixed
Depending on the specific requirements, choose between a fixed or mobile scratching post. Farmers might prefer attached posts because they are more robust and stable, whereas movable posts could be great for farmers who want to change the environment where the cows live.
Cows naturally prefer a scratching area with a taller height and a surface that's a bit rough. One highly recommended option is a metal bar, as it provides a durable and long-lasting surface for cows to scratch against. Many cows enjoy the feel of a rough surface, which helps them reach their scratching needs while also boosting their skin health and overall wellness.
Producers should observe any signs of deterioration in the scratching posts, such as a decrease in strength, signs of rotting, or an increase in the posts becoming unstable. So basically, one should buy a new one when the current one starts falling apart. In the meantime, also make sure that the one supporting the weight is not all worn out.
Offering scratching posts beneficially keeps the cows healthy. So, the posts let the cows feel less stressed and more comfortable within the space they inhabit. This is essential when you think that scratching is one of the most vital natural behaviors of most species. The other benefit is that it reduces the chances of infections and harm to the animal.
It's best to place large items in areas that stay dry and aren't too slick. Aim for spots that give cows the space to easily access the post without bumping into one another. Also, try to keep the post away from feeding areas and water sources to decrease contamination risks and keep the post in better condition.
The cow scratching post should be at least 2 inches thick and 4 feet tall, although it should be taller because cows like to stretch. The post should be tall and long to give the cow quite a large area to scratch on.
