The right feed for lactating cows depends on the age of the animals and their lactation stage. Baby calves and young cows in early lactation need high-quality forage to maximize their nutrient intakes. Dry cows and older heifers can use lower-quality forages. Nevertheless, you need to supplement the forage with adequate amounts of grain to satisfy energy and protein requirements.
Contents
Lactation Complete
There are many options when it comes to the best feed for lactating cows. Some are better suited for milk production, while others may be best used for feeding other purposes. Here are some common guidelines to help you make the right decision:
Ionophores
Ionophores are a new type of mineral supplement that can be added to milk replacer or mixed ration to improve efficiency of feed. Ionophores are not currently regulated under the VFD. But they can be added to feed as a supplement once approved by the FDA. If used as directed on the label, these minerals can improve the efficiency of feed for lactating cows.
Corn silage
While there is some debate over which is the best feed for lactating cows, there is a growing body of evidence that indicates that corn silage may be the best choice. The authors of the article, Thomas et al., studied two groups of lactating cows and fed them corn silage and wilted mixed-grass silage. Both groups received milk yields that were equivalent to or greater than those of the cows fed the alfalfa hay diet.
Milk replacer
What is the best feed for lactating cows? These cows need high quality forage to meet their nutrient requirements. Forage that contains at least 20% of protein should be given to these cows. In addition to forage, a lactating cow needs grain to meet her protein and energy needs. Ample pasture is essential for lactating cows, as well as free access to feed.
Vitamin E
A recent study showed that adding vitamin E supplements to feed during the lactation period reduced clinical signs in dairy cows. This was in part due to the fact that cows consuming ad libitum doses of vitamin E tended to have less clinical signs than those fed a standard ration. But ad libitum doses of vitamin E alone cannot prevent clinical mastitis.
Prebiotics
In dairy cows, adding prebiotics to the diet is beneficial for several reasons. These beneficial bacteria help with digestion and boost the immune system, thereby enhancing milk production and lactation. The use of prebiotics may also promote dairy cows’ milk production and improve the health of their rumen. Studies by Berg, Tejero, Ahedo, and Schumann indicate that the use of prebiotics can benefit dairy cows’ overall health and performance.
Minerals
The correct mineral supplement for lactating cows is essential for efficient reproduction, high milk production, and animal health. In addition to high-quality forages, cattle also need minerals in small amounts to support overall health. The amount of each mineral should be clearly marked on the label of the feed. Mineral supplements may be provided by other means, including weatherized minerals. These can be included in a supplement blend or added to the cow’s diet in the same amount as dietary minerals.
Free water intake
The importance of free water intake when feeding lactating cows cannot be overstated. It ranks second to oxygen in importance. While many people overlook the importance of free water in rations, it is critical for a lactating dairy cow to have access to adequate amounts of the nutrient. As a result, restricting free water intake can decrease milk production and result in considerable losses. Free water intake is affected by several factors, including feed consumption, the sodium and potassium content of the diet, environmental temperature, and increased humidity.
