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11. Where cubicles are provided, there must be at least one per cow in the management group. Each cow should have access to a cubicle and there should be a few extra available. We advise a figure of about 5% more than the cows in the management group (paragraph 78).
12. Cubicles must be of a design, type and size so as to be comfortable and not to cause injury to the animal. They should allow cows to go down, lie and rise without difficulty (paragraph 79).
13. Special attention should be paid to kerb height which should not be so high as to cause strain on the hind legs of cows standing half-in the cubicle, nor so low that the bed becomes contaminated (paragraph 80).
14. It is an offence to cause or allow livestock on agricultural land to suffer unnecessary pain or unnecessary distress. Where cubicle systems are too small for modern breeds, farmers must adapt them or, preferably, have them replaced. Specialist help should be obtained from a competent advisor (paragraph 81).
15. Cubicles must provide lying areas which are well-drained and bedded, as required by the Welfare of Livestock Regulations 1994. Sufficient cushioning should be provided with adequate bedding to keep the cow comfortable, to prevent contact sores and to keep teats, udders and flanks clean. A bare, solid base is unacceptable (paragraph 83).
16. Cubicle bases should be kept clear of manure by daily removal. Ideally, they should be cleaned twice daily and bedding replaced, as necessary (paragraph 84).