The Impact of Wide Body Hutches on Calf Growth: Breaking Down the Numbers

When it comes to raising healthy calves, space plays a crucial role. At Agri-Plastics, we believe that providing a well-designed, spacious environment can drastically improve calf growth and health. Our Wide Body Hutches (WBH) are built to offer more than just room—they foster the conditions calves need to thrive. In this first post of our series, we’ll break down the numbers behind calf growth and explain why a wider hutch makes all the difference.

1. More Space, Better Growth

One of the most immediate benefits of our Wide Body Hutch is the extra space it provides. Research shows that calves housed in wider environments grow faster, experiencing a 15% higher weight gain by the time they reach 16 weeks of age (Knauer et al. 2021). In practical terms, this means calves gain approximately 17 lbs more compared to those in narrow hutches. This additional weight comes from a combination of reduced stress and the ability to move more freely—critical for their overall development.

2. Healthier Calves, Stronger Herd

Increased space doesn’t just mean faster growth—it also promotes better health. Ventilation is crucial for reducing the risk of respiratory diseases in calves, and our WBH provides improved airflow that helps minimize moisture buildup and lowers pathogen exposure. 

Research by Gebremedhin et al. (1981) shows a 20% reduction in respiratory diseases in calves housed in well-ventilated, spacious environments. Healthier calves from the start lead to fewer medical costs and a more productive future herd.

3. Reduced Stress, Improved Welfare

Stress can negatively impact calf growth and health, but our Wide Body Hutch design helps create a low-stress environment. Studies show that calves housed in wider, social settings exhibit a 25% reduction in cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress (Miller-Cushon and Costa 2021). By lowering stress, you set the foundation for better immune responses and overall health in your calves, leading to long-term benefits for your operation.

4. Encouraging Early Solid Feed Intake

Space also encourages calves to begin eating solid feed earlier, which is essential for their digestive development. Research shows that calves in wide housing environments consume 20% more solid feed than those in narrower settings (Costa et al. 2015). This early intake of solid feed supports their growth and helps build strong, healthy digestive systems.

By investing in Wide Body Hutches, you’re not just giving your calves more room—you’re giving them the space to grow healthier, stronger, and faster. In our next blog post, we’ll dive deeper into the behavioral and social benefits that wider housing provides, taking a closer look at how these factors contribute to a healthier, more resilient herd.

Read more about Agri-Plastics Hutches on https://calfhutch.com/