Automated Dairy Specialist
June 2024
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Classic Cow Comfort Versatility
Advanced Diamond Traction and Comfort
Ultimate Grooved Rolled Rubber
Gregory FeedLots, Inc.
June 2024
Comfort and Calm for
Cattle on the Move
Advanced Diamond Traction and Comfort
In the processing area, this is where all the cattle arrive, get vaccinated, and where we load and handle them every day. It’s important for us that this space is designed to minimize stress on the cattle.
The Gregory family has been farming in Southwest Iowa since the 1860s, with Gregory Feedlots continuing operations on the original homestead. This generational farm specializes in livestock feeding and operates a custom cattle feeding business, managing over 5,500 head of cattle. A crucial part of their operation is the processing area, where cattle undergo various health and management procedures. Ensuring both the safety and well-being of the cattle, while maintaining efficiency in handling, is a top priority for Gregory Feedlots.
More than 25 years ago, Gregory Feedlots faced a significant challenge. Cattle arriving at the feedlot were experiencing a high incidence of toe abscesses, a painful condition that compromises cattle mobility and health. Initially, the Gregory family suspected that the handling and transportation processes were the cause. However, after further investigation, they realized the flooring in the processing area was contributing to the problem.
The installation of woven tire mats helped mitigate the issue, as the softer surface reduced the occurrence of toe abscesses. However, over time, the woven tire mats deteriorated under the constant weight and movement of the cattle.
This wasn’t the only issue they faced. As cattle exited the chute, they often moved unpredictably, increasing the likelihood of slips and falls. These incidents posed serious injury risks, including bruises and joint damage, and also created unsafe working conditions for the employees handling the cattle.
Gregory Feedlots needed a long-lasting solution that could ensure the health and safety of the animals while providing a safe environment for their workers.
Over 25 years ago, we noticed we had a high incidence of toe abscesses. We decided to install rubber mats, and since then, we eliminated toe abscesses—literally eliminated them.
The main reason we have these mats coming out of the chute is that when the cattle leave, they tend to move a little quicker. With these mats, they don’t slip, and the mats stay firmly in place. As the cattle move through the system, they’re not slipping or sliding.
In response to these ongoing issues, Gregory Feedlots opted for a more durable and long-lasting rubber flooring solution. They selected Animat’s MaxGrip rubber mats to replace the worn-out woven tire mats in the processing area.
MaxGrip rubber mats were chosen due to their ability to withstand the heavy weight and constant movement of cattle without deteriorating. More importantly, these mats provided sufficient comfort and traction, continuing to prevent the development of toe abscesses.
Additionally, Animat’s Chute Mats were installed in the chute area to address slipping issues. These rubber mats provided superior traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls even when the surface was wet. The cushioned footing minimized stress on the cattle as they moved through the chute.
Since the installation of Animat’s MaxGrip and Chute Mats, Gregory Feedlots has seen continued improvements in both cattle health and operational efficiency. The complete elimination of toe abscesses has significantly enhanced the overall well-being of the herd, reducing veterinary costs and improving cattle productivity.
The safer footing provided by the Chute Mats has resulted in smoother cattle transitions, minimizing slips and falls. The improved cattle movement through the processing area has led to more efficient operations, reducing downtime and creating a more streamlined workflow.
We’ve been really happy with our success and the continuation of not having toe problems.
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