During the lactation period, cows go through a critical phase that begins approximately 15 days after calving and lasts until around day 100. This stage is essential for maximizing milk production and maintaining the health of the cow throughout the entire lactation cycle. Proper feeding and management during this time are crucial to ensure that milk yield rises rapidly, remains stable at peak levels, and continues to improve over time.
To support this, farmers often implement a "prepayment" feeding strategy, starting about 15 days post-calving. This involves supplementing the regular feed with an additional 1–2 kg of concentrate per day, based on the current milk output. The goal is to encourage further increases in milk production. If the cow's milk yield continues to rise within 10 days, the prepayment should be maintained until the increase plateaus, at which point it can be gradually reduced.
Modern approaches have evolved from traditional prepayment methods into what is now known as the "guided rearing method." This strategy starts earlier, ideally two weeks before calving, and continues through the peak lactation period. Cows are fed high-energy diets to help prevent ketosis, maintain body condition, and boost milk production. The approach emphasizes providing as much quality forage as possible while minimizing roughage and increasing concentrates under controlled conditions.
Starting from the first two weeks before calving, cows receive about 1.8 kg of concentrate daily, with an incremental increase of 0.45 kg each day. This continues until the cow consumes 1.0–1.5 kg of concentrate per 100 kg of body weight. After calving, the concentrate amount is increased by 0.45 kg daily until the peak of lactation is reached. Post-peak, the concentrate level is adjusted based on milk yield, fat percentage, and body weight. Throughout the process, access to high-quality forage, free-choice feeding, and clean water are essential to reduce digestive issues and promote overall health.
High energy feeds like corn and molasses are vital during peak lactation, as cows often consume less than their energy needs, leading to a negative energy balance. Excessive fat mobilization can lead to ketosis, characterized by loss of appetite and a sharp drop in milk production. To prevent this, it's important to balance the diet with enough dry matter (not exceeding 15 kg of concentrate) and include buffering agents like sodium bicarbonate and magnesium oxide to maintain rumen pH.
Protein is also essential but must be carefully managed. Too much protein can lead to inefficiencies and even ketosis. It’s best to follow feeding standards and avoid excessive supplementation. Studies show that a diet rich in energy and protein-friendly ingredients, with about 48% of the protein being degraded in the rumen, is most effective. Adding methionine and using protein sources like fish meal or soybean meal can enhance milk yield.
Calcium and phosphorus levels must be properly balanced, with calcium making up 0.6–0.8% of the dry matter and a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 1.5:1 to 2:1. High-quality forage should make up at least 1% of the cow’s body weight to support rumen function. In winter, juicy feeds like carrots or beets can be added to provide extra nutrients. Vitamins A, D, and E, along with beta-carotene, are important for reproductive health and fertility.
Feeding practices should alternate between concentrates and forages to maintain a good appetite and reduce digestive issues. Concentrate feedings should be frequent, and grains should not be too finely ground to avoid acidosis. Proper grain processing helps maintain a healthy rumen environment.
According to nutritional guidelines, the lactation diet should contain 3.5% dry matter of body weight, with 2.4 NND, 16–18% crude protein, 0.7% calcium, 0.45% phosphorus, and at least 15% crude fiber, with a forage-to-concentrate ratio of 60:40.
Mastitis prevention is crucial during this period. Proper milking techniques, including thorough teat disinfection and avoiding residual milk, are essential. For high-yield cows, double milking may be beneficial. Clean bedding and regular breast massage also contribute to better udder health.
Water management is equally important. In winter, water should be warm (above 16°C), while in summer, cool or icy water helps keep cows comfortable and maintains milk production.
Finally, continuous monitoring of body condition, milk yield, and reproductive performance allows for timely dietary adjustments. This ensures that cows remain healthy and productive throughout the lactation cycle.
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