MooLoo “Teaches” Cows Where To “Go”

MooLoo “Teaches” Cows Where To “Go” LIVESTOCK Dairy 17 Researchers at the University of Auckland in New Zealand have found a way to potty train cattle The goal is to contain and control waste to keep from contaminating groundwater and reduce ammonia released into the air The researchers teach young cows to urinate in specialized pens outfitted with waste containment When cows pee in their designated toilet area the nitrogen from their urine can be captured and treated “Cows like most animals are much smarter than they’re traditionally credited with ” says Dr Lindsay Matthews a University of Auckland-affiliated researcher that worked on the project First the cows were placed in the Loo a latrine pen painted bright green to differentiate it from the rest Those who urinated within it were rewarded with treats while the animals that did their business elsewhere experienced a mildly irritating splash of water Many cows learned the association between the snacks and their bathroom space within 15 to 20 urinations and would self-initiate heading to the Loo to use it By the end of 15 days 75 percent of animals were urinating in the Loo most of the time While further experiments are necessary to demonstrate the potential for scaling up at commercial farms the results are promising - especially the apparent willingness of the cows to participate Contact: FARM SHOW Followup Dr Lindsay Matthews lindsay matthews1@gmail com

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