Proper feeding and nighttime care play a crucial role in maximizing milk production in dairy cows. As ruminants, they have a fast digestive system and require consistent nourishment throughout the day. In addition to regular feedings during daylight hours, it's important to provide an appropriate amount of feed around 10 p.m. This helps maintain their energy levels without overloading their stomachs, which can lead to indigestion. Ensure that they have access to clean, fresh water—cooler in winter and slightly chilled in summer. This not only supports their energy needs but also boosts their overall health and milk yield.
Extending the lighting period can also improve productivity. By using white fluorescent lights, you can increase the daily light exposure from 9 to 14 hours. This enhances metabolism, improves feed digestion, and ultimately leads to higher milk output.
Maintaining an optimal temperature is another key factor. Dairy cows thrive best in temperatures between 8°C and 21°C. During cold nights, ensure warmth, while in summer, focus on cooling to keep them comfortable. A stable environment directly affects their milk production.
Massaging the udder with warm water before milking has been shown to boost milk yield by approximately 10%. It promotes blood flow and relaxes the cow, making the milking process more efficient.
A clean and comfortable sleeping area is essential for cow health. Allowing cows to lie on wet or hard surfaces can cause discomfort and lead to issues like lameness or mastitis. After milking, clean the barn thoroughly, lay down soft bedding, and sprinkle lime or ash in damp areas to keep the environment dry. This ensures restful sleep and better milk production.
Brushing the cow’s body at night, especially around 10 p.m., helps keep their coat clean and promotes circulation. It also aids in regulating body temperature, contributing to better overnight rest and milk output.
If possible, encourage some gentle exercise at night, such as walking the cows for about an hour around midnight. This improves digestion and appetite, leading to increased milk production by up to 10%.
Finally, conducting nightly observations is vital. Many cows show signs of estrus at night, so it's important to monitor their behavior, rumination, and general condition. Early detection of any issues allows for timely intervention, ensuring continuous high milk production.
Processed Frozen Tuna,High Grade Tuna,Bigeye Tuna Can,Tuna Chunk in Oil Can
Zhejiang Ocean Family Co., Ltd., , https://www.ocean-family.com