Dairy cows are high-producing animals that require a well-balanced and diverse diet to maintain optimal health and milk production. While it's important to ensure nutritional balance, the variety of feed should be maximized to enhance palatability. However, excessive concentrate feeding must be avoided, as it can negatively impact cow health and long-term productivity. A typical diet includes 3-4 types of green roughage (such as hay, grass, or silage) and 3-4 types of concentrates. The feeding strategy varies depending on the physiological stage of the cow.
**First, the Dry Period (15 days before calving to dry-off):**
The main goal during this time is to stop lactation and allow the udder to return to its normal state. Therefore, it's advisable to limit succulent feeds and focus on high-quality roughage. The diet should contain around 2.0% to 2.5% of the cow’s body weight in dry matter, with a roughage-to-concentrate ratio of 75:25. Cows in poor condition may need more energy, while overweight cows should have their concentrate intake limited. Proper mineral balance is essential, and fiber intake should be maintained to support rumen function.
**Second, the Perinatal Period (15 days before and after calving):**
During this critical phase, dietary dry matter should make up 2.5% to 3.0% of the cow’s body weight, with a 60:40 roughage-to-concentrate ratio. As calving approaches, feed concentration should gradually increase to meet the rising nutrient demands of the growing fetus. From 15 to 34 days pre-calving, daily concentrate should increase by 0.5 kg to help the rumen adapt to higher concentrate levels postpartum. Vitamin D3 injections and exercise are recommended to prevent metabolic disorders. After calving, a bran soup mixture (1 kg bran, 2 kg brown sugar, 100 g minerals, and warm water) can help reduce fatigue and prevent issues like milk fever. Gradual increases in concentrate, starting from 0.5 kg per day, are essential to avoid digestive upset.
**Third, Early Lactation (Days 16–100 post-calving):**
This is when milk production peaks, and the goal is to maximize output without compromising the cow’s health. The roughage-to-concentrate ratio should transition from 55:45 to 60:40, but not exceed 60:40. Dry matter intake should be over 3.5% of body weight. During this period, cows often experience negative energy balance, so careful management is needed. Feed quality is crucial, and vitamins, trace elements, and buffers like sodium bicarbonate should be added to support metabolism and prevent acidosis. Total feed per cow should not exceed 40 kg/day, and clean water must always be available.
**Fourth, Mid Lactation (Days 101–200 post-calving):**
Milk production starts to decline, but feed intake reaches its peak. Adjustments to the diet should be made based on milk yield and body condition, aiming for a 40:60 roughage-to-concentrate ratio. Water availability and exercise remain key, along with proper milking techniques and udder care to maintain udder health and prevent mastitis.
**Fifth, Late Lactation (Days 201–305 post-calving):**
As the cow becomes pregnant again, milk production drops significantly. The diet should focus on maintaining body condition rather than maximizing milk output. A 70:30 roughage-to-concentrate ratio is ideal, with dry matter making up 3.0% to 3.2% of body weight. Nutritional levels should slightly exceed requirements to support both the cow and the developing calf. Regular monitoring for subclinical mastitis and fetal development is essential to prevent complications. Good hygiene, quality feed, and proper management during this stage are vital for the next calving cycle.
Changzhou Ziying Metal Products Co., Ltd , https://www.ziyingmetal.com