In recent years, the dairy industry has experienced significant growth across various regions in China. With the support and guidance of local governments, a nationwide "milk cow boom" has emerged, encouraging many farmers to shift their focus toward dairy farming as a path to prosperity. However, during my fieldwork in rural areas, I observed that most farmers still lack sufficient knowledge about modern cattle breeding techniques and have several misconceptions regarding feeding and management. These misunderstandings can lead to serious losses for both the dairy industry and individual farmers, and it is crucial to address them promptly.
One common misconception is overestimating the income from dairy farming. Experts emphasize that farmers should have a realistic view of their potential earnings and avoid exaggerated claims. Many farmers fail to account for all costs, such as depreciation of equipment and the value of self-produced feed. If these factors are considered, raising a dairy cow for $5,000 or $6,000 per year becomes impractical. However, large-scale operations with better management can achieve higher milk yields, potentially generating 3,000 to 4,000 yuan annually. It’s essential for authorities and farmers alike to remain rational and avoid blind expansion, as overestimating returns can lead to financial instability.
Another major issue is the improper feeding of dairy cows, often treated like yellow cattle. Farmers frequently rely on low-quality roughage such as dry corn stalks, wheat straw, and rice straw, while using basic concentrates like "triad noodles" (bean meal, bran, and cornmeal) without proper mineral supplementation. This leads to nutritional deficiencies, resulting in health problems such as mastitis, infertility, and reduced milk production. To improve this, farmers should diversify forage, produce silage, and consider using commercial dairy feed to ensure balanced nutrition.
Some farmers also rush the breeding process, attempting to breed calves too early—often before the heifer reaches an appropriate weight. This can cause complications during birth and affect future fertility. Proper growth and development must be prioritized before breeding.
Additionally, some farmers extend milking periods beyond the natural lactation cycle, which can harm the cow's health by depleting nutrients and disrupting reproductive cycles. It's important to follow natural rhythms and not push cows beyond their limits.
Another misconception is the belief that adding more salt increases milk production. While some farmers add up to 3-4% salt to concentrate, this can lead to salt poisoning and kidney damage. The correct approach is to limit salt to 0.7-0.8% and provide free-choice salt for cows to consume as needed.
Many farmers neglect hygiene and disinfection, believing that large cows are less prone to disease. This is dangerous, as poor sanitation can lead to mastitis and other serious conditions. Regular cleaning of udders, equipment, and surroundings is essential to prevent disease outbreaks.
Some also restrict water access, thinking it improves milk fat content. However, ruminants require constant water to maintain saliva production and overall health. Limiting water can reduce milk yield and performance.
Lastly, some keep cows on wooden stumps to prevent movement, leading to poor circulation, infertility, and weak immune systems. Cows need exercise, especially pregnant ones, to maintain good health.
In conclusion, addressing these misconceptions through education and proper management is vital for sustainable and profitable dairy farming in China.
IPL Hair Removal,IPL Laser Hair Removal,IPL Hair Removal Machine,IPL Laser Hair Removal Machine
Shenzhen Jie Zhong Lian Investment Co., Ltd. , https://www.szmeizon.com