[Thumper/inOkla.]

How steep of a ramp can cattle navigate safely? I mean on a daily basis in and out of the barn. How much traction will they need as far as cleats, steps or grooves. Are there prefab mats that would be good for this application?

 

[Ken Scharabok]

Check with your local county ag agent. Usually cattle are better going up ramps than down. Depends a lot on your location. If you get snow/ice then it would be different than say Florida.

Ken S. in WC TN

 

[Jackpine Savage]

Here's one recommendation:

"In some cases, “cow steps” are used to negotiate elevation changes greater than a 6% slope. The tread should be long enough to allow cow to place all four feet on the horizontal surface at the same time (6’ minimum). The rise of each step should not exceed 8”."

http://york.extension.psu.edu/Agriculture/CowMovement.htm