The lactation period refers to the time following calving, typically starting from day 16 up to day 100 postpartum. This phase is crucial for maximizing milk production and ensuring the cow’s overall health throughout the entire lactation cycle. Proper feeding and management during this stage are essential to support a rapid increase in milk yield, maintain a long and stable peak, and fully realize the cow's potential.
After calving, as the cow recovers, her milk production gradually increases. To help her reach her full potential, a strategy known as "prepayment" is often used, beginning around day 15 post-calving. This involves supplementing the standard feed with an additional 1–2 kg of concentrate per day, based on current milk output. If milk production continues to rise within 10 days, the prepayment should be maintained until the rate stabilizes. Modern advancements have led to the development of the "guided feeding method," which starts earlier—two weeks before calving—and continues through the peak of lactation. This approach includes feeding high-energy diets to reduce the risk of ketosis, support body weight, and boost milk yield. The goal is to provide as much concentrate as possible while keeping roughage intake sufficient, under scientifically controlled conditions.
From two weeks before calving, cows are typically fed about 1.8 kg of concentrate daily, increasing by 0.45 kg each day until they consume 1.0–1.5 kg of concentrate per 100 kg of body weight. After calving, the concentrate level continues to rise by 0.45 kg per day until the lactation peak is reached. Post-peak, the amount of concentrate is adjusted based on milk yield, fat percentage, and body condition. Throughout this period, access to quality forage, clean water, and proper feeding practices are vital to prevent digestive issues and maintain cow health.
During high lactation, energy demands are extremely high, but dry matter intake may not match. This creates a negative energy balance, leading to fat mobilization and potential ketosis if not managed. High-energy feeds like corn and molasses are recommended, along with adequate protein sources. However, excessive concentrate can cause rumen acidosis, so it's important to keep the fine material below 15 kg and ensure that it doesn't exceed 65% of total dry matter. Adding sodium bicarbonate and magnesium oxide helps buffer the rumen pH. In some cases, animal or vegetable oils can be used to supplement energy without overloading the system.
Protein is also critical, but too much can lead to inefficiency and health issues. Studies show that optimal milk production comes from a balanced diet with 48% of protein being degraded in the rumen. Feeds like blood meal, fish meal, and soybean meal are beneficial, and adding methionine can further enhance milk yield.
Calcium and phosphorus must be carefully managed, with calcium levels at 0.6–0.8% of dry matter and a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 1.5:1. High-quality roughage should make up at least 1% of the cow’s body weight, and juicy feeds like carrots and beets can be added in winter. Vitamins A, D, and E, along with beta-carotene, support reproductive recovery and improve fertility.
Feeding practices should alternate concentrates and roughages to maintain appetite and promote healthy rumen function. Grain should not be overly ground, as this can lead to acidosis. Instead, it should be crushed or pelleted. According to nutritional guidelines, the diet should contain 3.5% dry matter, 2.4 NND, 16–18% crude protein, 0.7% calcium, 0.45% phosphorus, and at least 15% fiber, with a 60:40 roughage-to-concentrate ratio.
Mastitis prevention is crucial during this time. Proper milking techniques, regular udder massage, and thorough disinfection of teats are necessary. For high-producing cows, double milking and clean bedding can improve comfort and milk yield. Clean, temperature-appropriate water is also essential to maintain hydration, appetite, and milk quality.
Finally, monitoring body condition, milk yield, and reproductive performance is key to adjusting feeding strategies as needed. By maintaining a well-balanced and attentive feeding program, dairy farmers can ensure the health, productivity, and longevity of their herd.
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