The average nutritional needs of a dairy cow are estimated by scientists for both a grazing and a conventional confinement system. They are based on a general herd average. Remember, cows don’t read computer printouts and humans aren’t always consistent! The best way to provide the proper nutrients is to be consistent. Here are some things to consider when planning a dairy cow nutrition program. Regardless of system, be consistent!
Dry cows on stored feeds
The nutrients in feeds for dry cows are highly variable. Although they account for approximately 60% of the dry matter in dairy cows’ diets, they are grouped according to their chemical and nutritional impacts. Complex polysaccharides (CPS) are associated with plant cell walls, and are resistant to microbial fermentation. Structural carbohydrates, on the other hand, are water-soluble and stimulate chewing. They may enhance rumen health and increase milk butterfat composition.
Free water intake is an important factor in the performance of cattle, so any measure that limits it will negatively impact production. As a rule of thumb, free water intake increases with temperature and humidity index above 68. Murphy et al. developed an equation that estimates that free water intake ranges from 92 to 138 L/d, taking into account feed intake. But that number is not universal. For a given climate, it varies between 92 and 138 L/d.
Post-weaning requirements for dry cows
Late lactation cows may be more efficient, but this can also increase labor costs. In addition to feeding high energy feeds to young growing stock, dry cows should be supplemented with quality, low-energy rations. A moderate BCS cow can cycle earlier, conceive sooner, and recover from winter more easily than a low-BCS cow. For these reasons, early weaning can reduce a cow’s water requirement by 30 to 50 percent.
Earlier weaning also benefits breeding herds. Increasing the weight and condition of dry cows at calving improves their productivity and quality of milk. It also increases their oestrus activity, which means a higher conception rate upon joining. During the dry season, the cows’ milk production may be reduced, but the calf’s energy requirements can remain high. For spring calving cows, early weaning allows them to reach oestrus sooner, which in turn improves their milk production and value.
Transition diets for dry cows
Many producers have been using controlled-energy diets to improve the health of dry cows during transition. These diets tend to contain low-energy ingredients. While the benefits of controlled-energy diets for transition cows are not completely understood, they do appear to be beneficial in several areas, including controlling bodyweight gain and condition. Close-up (high-energy) diets are also discussed. But the truth is that transition diets for dry cows should be based on nutritional balance, and the following are some of the factors to consider:
The first step in transition cow management is to observe the health of far-off dry cows, as they may be more difficult to monitor than those close to calving. This period can lead to higher production during subsequent lactations. Taking good care of the far-off dry cows will help set the stage for a successful calving in the future. In addition to monitoring their health, the management of this period is crucial to maximize the milk production of the dairy cow.
