Four Signs You Need a New Feeder Trough for Your Farm Animals

Maintaining a healthy and efficient farm environment is crucial to the well-being of your animals, and ensuring they have access to clean, safe feeding equipment is a key component. A feeder trough that is in good condition supports the health and productivity of livestock, providing them the nourishment they need. However, like any piece of equipment, feeder troughs do not last forever. 

Visible Damage and Wear

Visible damage is one of the most apparent signs that your feeder trough needs replacing. Cracks, holes, or significant wear and tear can compromise the trough's functionality and safety. Damaged troughs can have sharp edges that may injure animals or potentially allow contaminants to seep into the feed. Regular inspections are vital; if you notice any damage that cannot be properly repaired, it is time to invest in a new feeder trough to ensure your animals' safety and health.

Contamination and Hygiene Issues

Over time, feeder troughs can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold, especially if they are not cleaned regularly and thoroughly. Even with a rigorous cleaning schedule, some materials can become porous and hold onto contaminants, which can lead to illness in your livestock. If you observe that your trough has persistent hygiene issues, including a foul odor or visible mold growth, despite regular cleaning, it may be a sign that the material has degraded to the point where it cannot be kept sufficiently clean.

Inefficient Feeding

A feeder trough should allow all animals appropriate access to their feed without overcrowding or competition. If you notice that your animals are struggling to access their food or that there is excessive spillage and waste, it could be an indication that the trough is not adequately sized or designed for your current herd. As your farm expands or changes, you may outgrow your existing feeding equipment.

Changes in Animal Behavior

Animals are highly perceptive to their environment, and changes in behavior can often indicate issues with their feeding equipment. If you notice your livestock are reluctant to eat from the trough, avoiding it altogether, or displaying signs of distress during feeding times, it might be due to discomfort or problems with the feeder itself. This could be due to minor electric shocks from damaged troughs, sharp edges causing injuries, or simply the unsuitability of the design for your animals.

Ensuring your farm animals have access to a safe, clean, and efficient feeder trough is essential for their health and productivity. Regularly inspecting your feeding equipment for signs of damage, contamination, inefficiency, and adverse animal behavior can help you determine when it's time to make a replacement. 

Learn more from a retailer near you like Riverland Farm and Ranch Equipment.