Ten Tips to Remember When Farming with Livestock During the Winter in Connecticut

Introduction

The beauty of having four seasons in Connecticut also requires navigating the challenges presented with extreme winter weather, including freezing temperatures, high winds, or significant precipitation.

This factsheet offers livestock farmers and producers simple recommendations to manage livestock and farm, and continue operating safely through the winter season.

Provide Clean, Fresh, Unfrozen Water

Animals need constant access to clean, fresh water. Be sure to check water tubs and buckets often, especially during freezing weather. If using a heat source to keep water from freezing, be sure to check it regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.

Ensure Plenty of Feed

Cold weather increases animals’ energy needs. Livestock will require extra feed to stay warm and remain productive. Be sure to keep plenty of hay, grain, and minerals stocked and accessible. Depending on the extent of the storm, it may be best to secure extra before a storm hits to hold livestock over during an emergency.

Maintain Adequate Shelter

Windbreaks, barns, or sheltering structures help livestock conserve energy. Always ensure they have plenty of dry bedding. In general, bedding for an animal must be comfortable, clean, and absorbent.

There are several materials, both organic and inert, that may be used for bedding, and most may be used for all types of livestock. Be sure to consider bedding options before a storm, and stock up beforehand, or always have plenty extra on hand during the winter season.

Monitor Temperature Needs

The winter months are often peak birthing season for many livestock species. Remember that newborns may require additional heat. That could include a properly fitted blanket for the particular species, or the use of a heat lamp. Ensure all heat sources, including lamps and extension cords, are used safely regularly to reduce fire risk.

Watch for Ice in Paddocks

Slippery surfaces can cause falls and injuries, both to animals and humans. Be sure to assess the conditions of your paddocks daily. Sand or scrape the area, or relocate livestock if necessary.

Check Snow Load on Barn Roofs

Heavy accumulation can damage structures. Nearly half of storm-damaged barns are not designed to handle the snow load or wind speeds, due to inadequate roof bracing. Remove buildup in a timely manner from roofs, as needed, to prevent collapse.

Clear Paths for Animals and Equipment

Make sure pathways are cleared to provide safe, accessible routes for both animals and equipment. This includes ensuring that all gates can open fully and function properly. This helps reduce stress and ensures daily care routines can continue without disruption.

Fire safety is especially important during winter; keep snow cleared from fire hydrants, and ensure an accessible water source (i.e., farm pond) is available for emergency responders.

Inspect Fences for Breaks

Extreme weather conditions can damage livestock fencing. Inspect fencing regularly for any breaks or fallen trees and conduct prompt repairs to keep your livestock safe and secure.

Understand Livestock Thermal Tolerance

Livestock (most commonly with cattle) with snow resting on their backs are well insulated, and not losing heat, which is often a good sign.

Extreme weather, however, can still cause cold stress, which requires providing livestock with adequate shelter, dry bedding, and additional feed. This allows the animals to meet their energy needs, which is key to preventing additional stress and illness.

Protect Your Own Health and Safety

Dress appropriately in multiple warm layers. Plan accordingly, allowing extra time to complete tasks that may take longer under winter conditions. If possible, work with a buddy and remember to pace yourself because your wellbeing is essential to your livestock’s care.

Winter can be a challenging time for both livestock animals, and producers. Staying alert to changes in weather, being proactive, and planning accordingly for winter conditions is important.

Resources

Tomis, S., Welch, M., & White, M. (2025, February) Extreme Weather Preparedness for Livestock Operations. UConn Extension Article #EXT105. https://doi.org/10.61899/ucext.v2.105.2025

Dorfer, D., Tomis, S., & Ghimire, S. (2025, December) Preparing Farm Operations for Extreme Fall and Winter Weather. UConn Extension Article #EXT179. https://doi.org/10.61899/ucext.v2.179.2025

Meader, J. (2018). Reducing Storm Damage to Your Barn. UConn Extension Article #EXT016. https://doi.org/10.61899/ucext.v1.016.2024

Nadeau, J. (2018). Fire Safety – Prevent, Prepare and Take Action. UConn Extension Article #EXT009. https://doi.org/10.61899/ucext.v1.009.2024

UMass Extension Crops, Dairy, Livestock and Equine Program (n.d.) Bedding Options for Livestock and Equine. https://www.umass.edu/agriculture-food-environment/crops-dairy-livestock-equine/fact-sheets/bedding-options-for-livestock-equine

The information in this document is for educational purposes only. The recommendations contained are based on the best available knowledge at the time of publication. Any reference to commercial products, trade or brand names is for information only, and no endorsement or approval is intended. UConn Extension does not guarantee or warrant the standard of any product referenced or imply approval of the product to the exclusion of others which also may be available. The University of Connecticut, UConn Extension, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources is an equal opportunity program provider and employer.

UConn Extension