Fresh cows have many challenges, from metabolic problems to the risks of gastrointestinal disease, but with careful management and the help of a nutritionist, these problems can be minimized. In addition, these cows can benefit from a high-quality feed that is designed to promote good lactation and reproduction. Read on to discover more about fresh cow nutrition.
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Fat is the most energy dense nutrient
The energy content of fat in fresh cow feed is higher than that of protein or carbohydrates. However, the amount of energy that cows get from fat varies depending on its digestibility. As a result, it is important to choose the right source of fat for your dairy herd.
Fatty acids are essential for healthy cows. Most of them are found as stearic acid, an 18-carbon saturated fatty acid. These fatty acids are broken down in the rumen to release energy. Ultimately, cows digest fats by converting the fat in their feed to usable energy.
Generally, fats are added to feed as part of a balanced diet to boost the energy density of the feed. This will help counteract the reduced intake of feed during periods of heat stress. Cows tend to reject feed when it becomes hot, and adding fats to the diet will ensure that they continue to get energy from the feed.
It is also the most energy dense nutrient
A dairy cow’s diet must contain a high amount of energy-dense nutrients to support optimal body condition and milk production. This means the feed must contain lots of energy-dense ingredients and be rich in fermentable and physical fibers. The nutritional value of fresh cow feed must be optimal in terms of DMI and total energy. This means it should contain high amounts of protein, fat and fiber.
The most common sources of energy in cattle’s diets are high starch grains, fibrous byproducts, and fats. The amount of forage a cow consumes is greatly reduced when these energy-dense ingredients are added to the diet. Additionally, the intake of ruminal fiber decreases when grains are supplemented more than 0.5% of body weight or fats exceed 3% of diet dry matter.
It is the most energy dense nutrient during the transition period
The transition period is a critical time for dairy cows. Their energy balance is often negatively impacted during early lactation, which can cause metabolic disorders and impaired reproductive performance. The degree of energy deficiency and the rate at which the cow recovers will influence the cow’s performance. As a result, a lactating cow must consume more food to meet the increased demand for energy. Although this increases energy intake, a cow’s body is only able to absorb a certain amount of food per day. A feed ingredient called GlucoBoost can help alleviate this negative energy balance. GlucoBoost is one of the most energy-dense ingredients available in fresh cow feed and is easily metabolized by cows.
Cows need the most energy-dense nutrients during the transition period to avoid metabolic and reproductive problems. Insufficient energy balance during this time can lead to delayed ovulation and decreased milk production. Moreover, a nutrient called OA plays a critical role in controlling the energy balance in a cow’s body.
It improves reproduction
Providing adequate nutrition to the breeding herd can reduce feed costs and improve reproduction. Optimum body condition scores correlate with four main feeding stages during the yearly production cycle. For optimum reproductive performance, cows should receive a diet with at least 0.38 to 0.4% phosphorus.
During early lactation, a dairy cow’s energy balance can change, and fresh cow feed can improve her fertility. Insufficient dry matter may lead to negative nutrient levels, and this can lead to metabolic disorders, which affect reproductive performance and profitability. A diet rich in glucogenic precursors can boost ovarian activity and improve reproductive performance.
