Maximizing Dairy Cow Output with Smart Feeding Strategies

Dairy cows need plenty of good forage to stay healthy and produce milk. But what happens when the forage isn't up to par? Maybe the corn silage didn't grow well last year, or the hay is rougher than usual. Producers face these challenges all the time, especially with droughts and tight budgets.

Stretching Limited Forage Supplies

One key to keeping cows productive is stretching limited forage supplies. This means adding other types of feed, like soyhulls or straw, to keep the cow's rumen healthy. But it's not just about throwing in different feeds. Producers need to know how to balance the ration to meet the cow's needs. That's where nutritionists come in. They have the expertise to reformulate the feed and maintain milk production.

Transitioning Between Forage Types

Transitioning between different types of forage is another challenge. It's not a good idea to switch feeds overnight. Instead, producers should blend the new feed with the old over a few weeks. This gradual change helps keep the rumen happy and avoids disrupting the cow's digestion.

Smart Feeding Decisions

To make smart feeding decisions, producers should use tools like lab testing and manure analysis. Testing the forage at different points, like when new feed arrives or at the start and end of a silage pile, can provide valuable information. Manure consistency and milk production are also good indicators of how well the feed is working.

Identifying Dietary Gaps

Sometimes, even with careful planning, there might be gaps in the herd's diet. Ration balancing software can help identify these deficiencies. Adding supplements like Zinpro IsoFerm can improve fiber digestion and protein utilization, leading to better feed efficiency. This means cows can produce more milk with less feed.