Winter clothing for calves started to be sewn in Belarus
The Antopal cotton-spinning factory in the Drogichyn district has started producing insulated winter blankets for calves. The idea emerged after last winter, when severe frosts forced farms to look for additional ways to protect young animals from hypothermia, writes BelTA.
Photo: BelTA
Belarusian materials of their own production are used for the blankets. The thickness of the insulation is selected depending on the temperature: a thinner layer is suitable for conditions up to -5 degrees, while warmer options are produced for severe frosts. Needle-punched material or synthetic batting of various thicknesses is used as insulation.
The outer layer is made of waterproof fabric that protects the animal from moisture, and the inner layer is made of cotton material. It is important that the blanket is soft and does not irritate the calf's skin. Materials that could create a "greenhouse effect," causing overheating and excessive sweating, will not be used. For convenience, the blankets have buckle fasteners and adjustable straps.
Such protection is especially needed for newborn calves. During the first month of life, their thermoregulation system is not yet sufficiently developed, so they are more prone to hypothermia or overheating. An insulated blanket helps reduce energy loss for maintaining body temperature and conserve more resources for growth.
At the same time, Brest region is preparing for the new cold season and improving conditions for young animals. In 2026, 36 new calf prophylactoriums are planned to be built here, and another 17 will be reconstructed. It is expected that by 2027, all calves in the region will be kept in modern conditions.