Dairy cows are high-producing animals, and to maintain their health and productivity, it's essential to ensure a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. While diversifying feed types and improving palatability are important, overfeeding concentrates in the pursuit of higher milk yield can lead to digestive issues and metabolic disorders. A well-balanced diet usually includes 3–4 types of green roughages (such as hay, grass, and silage) and 3–4 types of concentrates. The feeding strategy should be tailored to each physiological stage of the cow.
**First, the Dry Period (15 days before calving to drying off)**
The main goal during this period is to stop lactation and prepare the cow for the next cycle. To achieve this, it’s best to limit the use of succulent feeds and focus on roughage. The diet should be high in fiber and low in energy, with a ratio of 25% concentrate to 75% roughage. The total dry matter intake should be around 2.0–2.5% of the cow’s body weight. Thin cows may benefit from slightly higher energy levels, while overweight cows should have limited concentrates and more medium-quality roughage. Mineral balance is also crucial during this time.
**Second, the Perinatal Period (15 days before and after calving)**
During this sensitive time, the cow’s dietary dry matter should make up 2.5–3.0% of her body weight, with a concentrate-to-roughage ratio of 40:60. As the cow approaches calving, feed intake decreases, but nutrient demands increase due to fetal growth. Gradually increasing the concentrate by 0.5 kg per day helps the rumen adapt. Vitamin D3 injections, exercise, and light exposure are recommended to prevent postpartum complications. After calving, feeding bran soup (1 kg bran, 2 kg brown sugar, 100 g minerals, and warm water) helps restore energy and hydration. From day 4 onward, the concentrate should be increased by 0.5 kg daily to reach 10 kg/day within 11 days, supporting both recovery and milk production.
**Third, Early Lactation (Days 16–100 post-calving)**
This is the phase of rapid milk production. The crude-to-concentrate ratio should gradually shift from 55:45 to 60:40, but not beyond 60:40. Dry matter intake should exceed 3.5% of body weight. Although milk output is high, the cow’s appetite may lag, leading to negative energy balance. It’s important to avoid overfeeding concentrates to prevent acidosis. Vitamins, trace elements, and buffers like baking soda should be added to support metabolism and reduce disease risk. 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 begins to decline, but feed intake peaks. Adjust the concentrate amount based on milk yield and body condition, aiming for a 40:60 concentrate-to-roughage ratio. Ensure sufficient water, encourage exercise, and maintain proper milking techniques. This stage is critical for maintaining body condition and preparing for the next dry period.
**Fifth, Late Lactation (Days 201–305 post-calving)**
As the cow becomes pregnant, milk production drops significantly. The diet should be mainly roughage (30:70 ratio), with dry matter making up 3.0–3.2% of body weight. Focus on recovery, not just milk production. Nutrition should always exceed requirements to help the cow regain body condition. Monitor for signs of mastitis and manage the fetus carefully. Proper feeding and management during this time are key to a healthy next calving.
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