strooisellaag

Strooisellaag is the bedding layer used in animal housing to provide a dry, comfortable resting surface while absorbing urine and manure. It also acts as insulation and helps control odors. The material chosen for a strooisellaag varies with species, housing type, and climate. Common materials include straw (the traditional choice for dairy cattle, horses and small ruminants), wood shavings or chips (popular in pig houses and some dairy barns), and peat or chopped reed. Some farms use a mix of materials or recycle used bedding after proper composting.

The depth of the layer is adjusted to the species and management practice; a regular supply of fresh, dry material is added, while heavily soiled bedding is removed or the entire layer is replaced on schedule. In deep litter systems, the bedding is left to accumulate and slowly decompose with microbial activity, generating heat and reducing frequency of cleaning. Regular ventilation and moisture control are essential to prevent excessive ammonia, mold, and pathogen buildup.

Benefits include improved animal comfort, better thermal insulation, and reduced injuries. Disadvantages include the cost of bedding materials, labor for removal and replacement, potential ammonia and mold problems if moisture is not controlled, and, in the case of straw, fire risk.

Bedding choices also have environmental implications, influencing manure handling, emissions, and composting or disposal needs. Welfare guidelines in many regions specify adequate bedding and maintenance standards.