By Umar Nsubuga
Maintaining clean and healthy cows is essential for any successful dairy farming operation.
Ruta Ngambwa, a renowned dairy farmer, knows this firsthand. With years of experience managing a large herd, he has developed effective methods for keeping his cows clean, which directly improves their health and milk production.
Ngambwa emphasises that washing cows is not just about appearance it’s a vital part of keeping them healthy. Clean cows are less prone to skin infections, external parasites, and udder diseases such as mastitis, which can negatively impact milk quality.
“A clean cow is a happy cow,” he says, stressing that regular washing helps maintain their overall well-being.
Choosing the right time to wash
Ngambwa recommends washing cows during the warmer part of the day, typically mid-morning or early afternoon.
“You want to avoid early mornings or late evenings when it’s too cold, as wet cows can easily catch a chill,” he explains.
By washing them when the sun is up, the cows can dry faster and comfortably return to grazing or resting without the risk of illness.
Using clean, Lukewarm water
Ngambwa says one of the key tips is to always use clean, lukewarm water when washing cows. Cold water can cause discomfort, and dirty water defeats the purpose of cleaning.
Lukewarm water helps loosen dirt and mud more effectively, making the washing process smoother.
“The cows seem more relaxed and cooperative when the water is not too cold,” he adds.
Gentle scrubbing with soft brushes
Ngambwa says you can use soft brushes to scrub the cows, paying extra attention to areas that tend to accumulate more dirt, such as the belly, legs, and udder.
“It’s important to use gentle brushes that don’t irritate the cow’s skin,” he advises.
He says hard brushes can cause discomfort, making the cows anxious and uncooperative during the wash. The gentle scrubbing also helps stimulate blood circulation, which is beneficial for their skin health.
Special care for the udder
The udder is the most sensitive and crucial part of a dairy cow, and Ngambwa says to take extra, This is the area that must stay the cleanest, as it directly affects the quality of the milk, Ngambwa explains.
He stresses the importance of avoiding harsh chemicals or rough handling, as it can lead to irritation or infection.
Regular washing schedule
Ngambwa follows a regular washing schedule, washing his cows at least once a week, and more frequently during the rainy season when the animals get muddy more easily.
“You don’t want to wait until the cow is too dirty; regular cleaning keeps things manageable,” he advises.
In drier seasons, he ensures the cows are cleaned once a week, while during wetter months, he may wash them two to three times a week to prevent caked mud and filth from hardening on their skin.
Drying and grooming
After washing, Ngambwa lets the cows air-dry in the sun. However, he makes sure to use a clean towel or a soft cloth to gently dry off sensitive areas like the udder and teats.
This prevents moisture from lingering in these areas, reducing the risk of infections.
“Grooming is also part of the process,” Ngambwa adds.
Monitoring the cows’ reactions
Ngambwa advises farmers to always monitor their cows during and after washing. If a cow seems stressed or anxious, it’s important to adjust the method, whether by using warmer water, softer brushes, or slowing down the process.
“You need to understand your animals and know what makes them comfortable,” he says.
Happy cows are more likely to cooperate during the wash, making it a stress-free experience for both the farmer and the cows.
Maintaining clean surroundings
Ngambwa stresses that washing the cows is only effective if their surroundings are kept clean as well.
He regularly cleans the cows’ resting areas and milking barns, ensuring they don’t step back into mud or dirt immediately after a wash.
“Clean cows in clean surroundings that’s the goal,” he says, highlighting how hygiene goes beyond the washing routine and includes overall farm cleanliness.
