3 Tips for Dairy Cow Nutritional and Feeding Management  

Feed costs for the dairy cattle herd account for 50 to 60% of the overall cost of milk production. Furthermore, premium cattle feed and nutrition that are effectively executed can improve milk output, health, and reproductive performance in both milking and dry cows.  

 

A diet that meets the nutritional requirements of a high-producing dairy cow is very important to inculcate before you expect outputs. Carbohydrates, amino acids, fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, and water are all nutrients necessary for a nursing dairy cow to supply the demand for milk and related components. However, the nutrition of the calf and heifer is the first step in developing a cow that will give a high milk supply. 

 

1.Grain supplements  

 

Grains are very helpful in gaining weight because this improves the growth percentage in cattle. Many farmers feed grains to growing cattle to save money and have livestock ready sooner. Grain supplements are also a useful option for cattle that don't have access to high-quality hay or grazing pastures during the winter. However, cattle should not become overly reliant on supplements, as this will prevent them from grazing in more nutritionally diverse pastures. 

 

2.Hay  

 

Hay can supply all of the essential nutrients for cattle, but it must be harvested at the peak of its nutritional value before it gets too dry. There are several different types of hay that are nutritious. Alfalfa hay, for example, contains more calcium and phosphorus than grass hay, yet grass hay might have a lot of protein. Rather than relying solely on alfalfa hay, most experts recommend combining it with grass hay. Alfalfa hay is frequently advised for dairy cattle, although it may not be suitable for beef cattle due to the risk of bloat. Legume hay, which is strong in protein, is another nutritious option for cattle (Pashu Aahar)

 

3.Keep a track of nutritional requirements 

 

Mid-gestation and late-gestation have significant differences. "During this period the calf isn't growing that much in mid-gestation, that is why demands in this period can be significantly reduced," Drewnoski explains. "Later in pregnancy, they pick up." Furthermore, many people overlook the increased dietary requirements during early lactation. If you want cows to rebreed, then don't take risk." 

 

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