By Umar Nsubuga
Cows are often seen grazing peacefully in the open fields, but the quality of their environment plays a critical role in their health and productivity.
Ruta Ngambwa, a seasoned cattle farmer, has learned over the years that maintaining cleanliness in his cattle shed is not just an option, but a necessity for the well-being of his animals.
“Cows are like people,” he says, ‘they thrive in clean conditions, and the cleaner their environment, the healthier and more productive they become.’
Ngambwa’s approach to cleanliness stems from years of experience and observation on his farm.
He explains that keeping the cows’ water troughs clean and ensuring that their bedding is fresh and dry can prevent many diseases.
“Many people don’t realise how important clean water is for cows. If the water is contaminated, it can lead to digestive issues and even affect the quality of milk they produce,” he adds.
He makes sure to clean the troughs regularly and provide her herd with fresh water every day.
Beyond water, Ngambwa insists that the overall cleanliness of the cow’s living area is equally vital.
“A clean shed keeps pests away and prevents cows from getting infections in their hooves or udders,” he says.
He has observed that when cows are kept in dirty conditions, they become more susceptible to diseases like mastitis, an udder infection that can significantly reduce milk yield.
“Once a cow gets mastitis, it’s a struggle to restore its health and productivity,” he explains, adding that prevention is always better than treatment.
Peter Mubiru, a veterinary doctor with extensive experience in livestock care, echoes Ngambwa’s sentiments.
He explains that cows are vulnerable to various infections when hygiene is neglected, and the effects can be devastating for both the animals and the farmers.
“Cleanliness in cattle farming is often underestimated,” Mubiru says, “but it directly influences the health of the animals and the quality of the products they provide.”
He points out that poor sanitation can lead to parasitic infestations, respiratory infections, and skin diseases. All of these conditions can affect a cow’s productivity and require costly veterinary intervention.
Mubiru highlights that one of the most common issues he encounters in poorly maintained farms is hoof infections.
“When cows stand in wet, dirty areas for too long, their hooves soften and become prone to infections like foot rot,” he explains.
“This can lead to lameness and, in severe cases, the cow might not be able to walk, making it difficult to graze or even stand during milking.”
This not only affects the cow’s health but also reduces the farmer’s income, as a lame cow is less productive.
Ngambwa has experienced firsthand the benefits of cleanliness in cattle farming.
“When I first started, I didn’t pay much attention to hygiene, and I had a lot of problems with sick cows,” he recalls.
“But as soon as I improved the cleanliness of their living area, I saw a huge difference. My cows became healthier, produced more milk, and I had fewer vet bills,” he adds.
His herd is now thriving, and he attributes much of her success to the simple yet effective practice of maintaining a clean environment for his animals.
Mubiru agrees that the impact of cleanliness on productivity cannot be overstated.
“Healthier cows produce more milk, and the milk is of better quality,” he explains.
Clean cows are less stressed, and that contributes to their overall well-being.
He encourages farmers to adopt regular cleaning routines, including disinfecting sheds, providing fresh bedding, and managing waste effectively.
