Farm Animal Welfare

Dairy Cattle: Cubicle Lying Behaviour

Lying time is a fundamental welfare indicator for dairy cows, with inadequate rest strongly linked to lameness, mastitis, and reduced productivity.

Key Facts

Dairy cows need 10-14 hours of lying time per day for optimal welfare
Restricted lying increases cortisol levels within two hours in lactating cows
Cubicle design must match cow size - undersized stalls are a major welfare problem
Rubber mattresses with deep bedding reduce hock injuries by up to 70% versus bare concrete
Overstocking above 85% occupancy consistently reduces lying time and welfare

Welfare Considerations

Chronic lying time restriction causes cumulative welfare harm through increased lameness, metabolic disease, and physiological stress. Prioritising adequate high-quality lying spaces is one of the most impactful welfare improvements available to dairy farmers, with strong links to both cow health and milk production.

What You Can Do

Measure lying time on farm using data loggers or direct observation
Ensure cubicle dimensions match the largest cows in the group
Review stocking density and reduce overstocking
Invest in deep-bedded or rubber-cushioned lying surfaces
Work with your vet to link lying time data to health records