Cow Lifter Buyer’s Guide: Lift Downer Cows Safely and Comfortably

A “downer” cow – one that’s gone down and can’t rise – needs help to stand, eat and recover, and a cow lifter (sling) is the humane way to give that help. The Liftease Cow Lifter was designed specifically to fix the problems of older, fully-enclosed slings. Here’s how to choose a lifter and use it safely.

Why a dedicated cow lifter beats improvised methods

Fully enclosed slings trap heat and moisture, and over longer lifts they can cause sweating, skin ulcers and hide damage – the last thing a sick cow needs. A well-designed lifter supports the cow comfortably, allows air flow, and spreads the load so the animal can be helped up repeatedly during recovery without further harm.

What makes the Liftease different

• Extremely strong – engineered to lift up to 2,000 kg without risk.
• Designed to prevent the sweating, skin ulcers and hide damage caused by fully-enclosed slings.
• Each lift strap has three lift loops, so you can vary the lift height.
• Loops are sized to fit a silage fork and are less likely to slip off than metal hooks.
• Can also be used for horses.

How to use it

The easiest method is to first lift the cow’s hindquarters with a hip-clamp device, then position the Liftease underneath. If you don’t have a hip clamp, you can either roll the cow onto the Liftease or simply pull the Liftease through underneath the down animal. Use the three loops per strap to set a comfortable lift height, and fit the loops onto a silage fork (or suitable lifting point) for the lift.

Caring for a down cow

Lifting is only part of recovery. Roll a down cow from side to side regularly to prevent nerve and muscle damage, keep her on good footing, and address the underlying cause (milk fever, injury, toxicity) with your vet. The Liftease lets you get her up to eat, drink and move, which materially aids recovery.

Frequently asked questions

How much can it lift?

The Liftease is rated to lift up to 2,000 kg, comfortably covering mature dairy and beef cows.

Do I need a hip clamp as well?

Not necessarily. A hip clamp makes positioning easier, but you can also roll the cow onto the Liftease or slide it underneath.

Can it be used on horses?

Yes – the Liftease is equally suitable for down horses.

Buy the Liftease cow lifter

Give downer cows the safest, most comfortable route back to their feet. See the Liftease Cow Lifter – strong, breathable and built for real-world use.