Stable mats are a common feature in livestock and equine facilities, providing a soft and durable surface for animals to stand on. They come in a variety of materials, sizes, and thicknesses, and are commonly made of rubber, foam, or EVA foam. One of the most attractive features of stable mats is their portability, making them a versatile option for farmers. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits and considerations of portable stable mats.
Benefits of Portable Stable Mats
- Convenience
One of the most significant benefits of portable stable mats is the convenience they offer. They can be easily moved from one location to another, making them ideal for farmers and ranchers who need to switch up their animal enclosures or move their animals to new pastures. This makes them ideal for farmers who have a rotational grazing system, as they can easily move the mats to different grazing areas.
- Easy to Install
Portable stable mats are also easy to install. Unlike traditional concrete or wood flooring, which require specialized equipment and skilled labor, stable mats can be easily laid down by a single person. This not only saves time and money but also allows farmers and ranchers to install the mats themselves, without the need for outside help.
- Cost-Effective
Another benefit of portable stable mats is their cost-effectiveness. They are generally less expensive than other types of animal flooring, such as concrete or wood, and can be reused and relocated as needed. This makes them a wise investment for farmers and ranchers who want to maximize their resources and save money in the long run.
- Improved Animal Comfort and Health
Stable mats also offer several benefits for animal comfort and health. They provide a soft and comfortable surface for animals to stand on, which can help reduce joint pain and discomfort. This is particularly important for animals that spend a significant amount of time standing, such as cows or horses. In addition, stable mats are easy to clean and disinfect, which can help reduce the risk of disease and infection in the animals.
Considerations for Portable Stable Mats
- Size and Thickness
When choosing portable stable mats, it is important to consider the size and thickness of the mats. They should be large enough to accommodate the animal and thick enough to provide adequate cushioning. The size and thickness of the mats will depend on the type of animal being housed and their weight. For example, a horse may require a thicker and larger mat than a smaller animal like a goat or sheep.
Traditional rubber stable mats 6ft x 4ft x 17mm can be extremely hard to move and if not handled with care will likely cause injury. 6ft mats are often preferred as cattle cannot easily move the mats as 2 legs are usually root rooting the mat to the floor when kicking. So what is the solution? Use 3ft x 4ft lighter EVA 330kg/cbm mats with jigsaw teeth to connect together. This solves all problems and cuts costs further as delivery can be on a single pallet where too many 6ft mats will need to ship on a double pallet.
- Material
There are several materials to choose from when it comes to portable stable mats. The most common materials are rubber, foam, and EVA foam. Each material has its own unique characteristics, and the choice will depend on the specific needs of the farmer or rancher. For example, rubber mats are durable and long-lasting, while foam mats are lightweight and easy to move.
- Cleaning and Maintenance
Portable stable mats require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. They should be swept or vacuumed regularly to remove dirt and debris, and disinfected on a regular basis to prevent the spread of disease. Some materials may require special cleaning products or methods, so it is important to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- Durability
Finally, it is important to consider the durability of the portable stable mats. They should be able to withstand the weight of the animals and any heavy equipment that may be used in the animal enclosure. They should also be able to withstand exposure to the elements, such as sunlight and rain. Choosing a durable material and proper maintenance will ensure that the mats last for many years to come.
Conclusion
Portable stable mats are a versatile and cost-effective option for farmers and ranchers. They offer many benefits, including convenience, ease of installation,