Recently, new combination cubicle bedding systems onto the market, attempting to combine the advantages of deep-bedded and raised cubicles. One such system is the maxiBox® from Kraiburg. Initial comparative studies conducted in Germany have yielded preliminary results regarding these new combination cubicle systems. However, various influencing factors have not yet been fully clarified. Automated tracking methods are also increasingly being used in herd management . The new Animal Positioning System Smartbow® from MKW. Therefore, the aim of a research project at HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein was to conduct a comprehensive comparison between the conventional straw-manure mattress and the combined deep-bedded cubicle variant with a rubber base (maxiBox®) with regard to animal lying behavior, straw consumption, labor requirements, and mattress condition, and, in the process, to validate the animal tracking capabilities of the Animal Positioning System. The studies were conducted in the cattle research barn of the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein with 63 dairy cows in two trials. After an acclimatization period of one month, it was found that the straw-manure mattresses were used for lying down on average 45.1% of the observation day, and the maxiBoxes 17.5% of the observation day. After an acclimatization period of one year, the values were 34.0% and 20.9%, respectively. The Animal Positioning System provided comparable results to the video observations regarding the animals' time spent in the cubicles. The combined deep-bedded cubicle variant showed advantages in terms of straw consumption and labor requirements. The management of each cubicle system is of crucial importance.
News from the testing facility - Results of the POLSTA deep box cushion test
The Austrian Animal Welfare Act mandates a review of all novel products before they are placed on the market in Austria. Compliance is considered fulfilled when confirmed by an expert opinion from the Center for Animal-Friendly Husbandry and Animal Welfare. Practical tests conducted by a testing center are intended to provide the center with any missing information for its assessment. The HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein is such a testing center for animal-friendly husbandry and animal welfare, approved. In 2018, the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein was commissioned to test the POLSTA deep-litter bedding system manufactured by Kraiburg . This involved assessing cattle for the occurrence of technopathies (inflammation of the bedding system). A comprehensive test report was submitted in autumn 2018. The investigations concluded that keeping cattle on properly installed and used POLSTA deep-litter bedding systems not negatively impact joint health . The condition of the joints most affected by the POLSTA deep litter cushion, the carpal joints, has significantly improved in the available assessments following its use. The POLSTA deep litter cushion received a positive evaluation from the expert agency for animal-friendly husbandry and animal welfare, and was awarded the animal welfare label.
