Rubber Cow Mats UK | Heavy Duty Dairy & Livestock Matting | Rubberco
Last updated: | Written by Rubberco Flooring Specialists | Burnley, Lancashire, UK
Rubber Cow Mats UK
Rubber cow mats are one of the most effective investments a dairy or livestock farmer can make. Properly specified rubber matting reduces lameness, increases lying time, improves hygiene, extends cubicle life and pays for itself through improved milk yield and reduced veterinary costs.
Benefits of Rubber Cow Matting
- Reduces lameness: Cushioned rubber reduces concussive stress on hooves and joints. Studies show 15 to 30% reduction in lameness in herds with rubber-floored cubicles
- Increases lying time: Cows lie longer on rubber — up to 1 to 2 hours per day more — which directly correlates with higher milk yield
- Improves hygiene: Solid rubber is easier to scrape and wash than concrete; reduces bacteria and cell counts
- Protects hoof condition: Softer surface reduces hoof wear and the risk of sole ulcers and white line disease
- Reduces slurry: Grooved surfaces channel slurry to drains efficiently
Cow Mat Specifications
| Specification | Standard | Heavy Duty |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 17mm | 22mm to 25mm |
| Weight per m² | approx 20 kg | approx 27 kg |
| Surface profile | Ribbed / grooved | Ribbed / grooved |
| Compound | SBR recycled rubber | SBR recycled rubber |
| Standard sizes | 1.83m x 1.22m | 2.0m x 1.0m |
Cubicle vs Passage Matting
Cubicle mats go in the lying area and should be 17mm to 22mm thick with a smooth or lightly textured surface for comfort. Passage mats (in cow alleys and collecting yards) need grooved or studded surfaces for traction and should be 22mm to 25mm thick to withstand constant traffic from all four hooves.
How long do rubber cow mats last?
Quality rubber cow mats last 10 to 15 years in cubicle applications. Passage mats in high-traffic areas typically last 7 to 10 years. The key factors are compound quality, thickness and whether the concrete base is level — uneven concrete causes localised stress cracking. Rubberco cow mats are made from high-density recycled SBR rubber designed for dairy industry use.
Do I need to fix rubber cow mats to the floor?
Cow mats are usually installed loose-lay without adhesive — the weight of the mat and the cows holds them in place. In collecting yards and passages with high directional movement, mats can be held with rubber pegs or lip edges. Adhesive fixing is not recommended as it makes replacement difficult and can trap moisture under the mat.
