45 



floors are much more durable than wooden floors and, if given a 

 rough finish, there is little danger of hurt to the cows through 

 slipping and falling. Planks may be laid over the cement in the 

 stalls, but this is not necessary nor advisable where plenty of bedding 

 material is available. 



The relative levels of the different parts of the floor is a matter 

 of considerable importance. A study of the diagrams on Plate 

 will serve to indicate what is meant. 



In the opinion of the writer the best relative levels are about as 

 follows : 



Manure passage 6 inches above bottom of gutter. 



2 inches to 3 inches lower than 

 rear end of stall or stand. 



Gutter bottom 8 inches below stall or stand. 



Stand 2 inches to 3 inches above manure 



passage and rising from 1 inch to 

 l inches in length from gutter to 

 manger. 

 Division between stall or stand and manger 6 inches high. 



Manger bottom 1 inch to 3 inches higher than stall 



or stand. 



Manger back Fairly steep and at least 6 inches 



higher than bottom. 



Feed passage To suit convenience or fancy; any 



one of positions indicated on Plate 

 - likely to prove satisfactory. 

 STALLS. 



The length of the standing platform from manger to gutter, and 

 its width, will of course be according to the size of the cows. From 

 4 to 6 feet long by about 3 feet wide is the size needed by dairy 

 cows. Young stock and very small cows will require less space. A 

 slope of from one to one and a half inches from manger to gutter 

 will help keep the cows clean. 



Where cows are tied by stanchion, divisions are not absolutely 

 necessary between cattle. Generally speaking", however, it is 

 advisable to have divisions of some kind on one side of each cow if 

 not on both sides. This prevents und'ue crowding and turning in the 

 stalls. Where chains or ropes are used, divisions are almost indis- 

 pensable. 



