How species-appropriate feeding and exercise contribute to greater animal welfare
The small-scale farming structures enable individual and personal animal care. This is important because the well-being of the animals is a top priority for our Haymilk farmers.
Species-appropriate feeding
Cows are ruminants. Fresh grasses and herbs are their natural staples, which they find in summer on the fields, pastures and alpine meadows. In winter, Haymilk cows receive this aromatic and varied feed in the form of hay.
This is supplemented by mineral-rich grain meal, which must be sourced in Europe and guaranteed GMO-free.
Fermented feedstuffs such as silage are strictly prohibited.
Plenty of space and movement
The opportunity to exercise on fields, pastures and alpine meadows with fresh air and warm sun is absolutely vital to keep animals healthy. Our Haymilk cows are housed in open stables or are put out to pasture for at least 120 days each year.
Permanent tethering is prohibited.
Personal care matters
Due to the small-scale farming structures, our Haymilk farmers take care of a small animal population.
They know the names, characteristics and traits of their average of about 17 cows very well.
Top performance is not required
Haymilk cows do not have to produce maximum output. The species-appropriate feeding results in an average milk yield.
In industrialized agriculture in Europe, milk yields of up to 50 kg per day can be achieved by using enormous amounts of concentrated feed. Our hay-milk cows are far from this. By following their natural way of life, they give about 18 kg of milk per day.
Diversity of cattle breeds
Our Haymilk farmers rely on cattle breeds that are perfectly adapted to the requirements of hay farming. They keep healthy and hardy animals that can cope excellently even in high alpine pastures. Braunvieh, Grauvieh, Original Pinzgauer and many other breeds can be seen on the farms of hay-milk farmers.
Sufficient space in the barn
Since cows spend half of the day resting and lying down, Haymilk farmers provide generous lying space and sufficient fresh air in the barn.
Cow comfort through scratch brushes
On many farms, scratching brushes in the free stall or range bring the best possible cow comfort.
Fresh water for well being
Cows need up to 120 litres of water per day. Fresh water is provided in sufficient quantities and is easily accessible, both on pasture and in the barn.
Animal health
Keeping our Haymilk cows healthy is our top priority. Veterinarians conduct preventative check-ups on a regular basis, providing professional advice to ensure their well-being.