Dairy Cattle Feeds: Maximising Milk Production & Quality
Boosting Milk Yield and Quality
For dairy cattle, superior nutrition translates directly into higher milk yields and better milk quality. Our dairy cattle feeds are scientifically formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of lactating cows, providing them with the energy, protein, and micronutrients required for peak milk production. Rich in high-quality forages, grains, and essential fatty acids, our feeds support the production of rich, creamy milk with optimal butterfat and protein content.
Improving Cow Health and Longevity
Healthy cows produce more and better milk. Our dairy feeds include a balanced blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune function, reproductive health, and overall vitality. By incorporating rumen-protected amino acids and other advanced ingredients, our feeds enhance cow health and longevity, ensuring sustained high productivity over the lifespan of your herd.
Optimising Milk Production and Health
To achieve optimal milk production and maintain the health of dairy cattle, a well-structured feeding program that addresses the nutritional needs at different life stages is essential. Below is a comprehensive feeding structure designed to support dairy cattle from calf to mature cow, ensuring peak performance and longevity.
Animal Feed Component Calculator
Phase 1:
Calf (0 - 6 Months)
Nutritional Focus: High protein and energy for growth and development.
| Nutrient | Requirement (% of Diet) |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein | 20 - 22% |
| Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) | 75 - 80% |
| Fibre | 5 - 7% |
| Calcium | 0.8 - 1.0% |
| Phosphorous | 0.45 - 0.55% |
Phase 2:
Heifer (6 - 12 Months)
Nutritional Focus: Support continued growth with balanced protein and energy.
| Nutrient | Requirement (% of Diet) |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein | 16 - 18% |
| Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) | 70 - 75% |
| Fibre | 10 - 12% |
| Calcium | 0.7 - 0.9% |
| Phosphorous | 0.35 - 0.45% |
Phase 3:
Growing Heifer (12 - 24 Months)
Nutritional Focus: Balanced diet to promote lean muscle development.
| Nutrient | Requirement (% of Diet) |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein | 14 - 16% |
| Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) | 65 - 70% |
| Fibre | 15 - 18% |
| Calcium | 0.6 - 0.8% |
| Phosphorous | 0.3 - 0.4% |
Phase 4:
Pre-Calving (Close-Up Period, 24-26 Months)
Nutritional Focus: Prepare for calving and lactation.
| Nutrient | Requirement (% of Diet) |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein | 14 - 15% |
| Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) | 62 - 68% |
| Fibre | 20 - 25% |
| Calcium | 1.0 - 1.5% |
| Phosphorous | 0.4 - 0.5% |
Phase 5:
Lactating Cow
Nutritional Focus: Maximise milk yield and maintain cow health.
| Nutrient | Requirement (% of Diet) |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein | 16 - 18% |
| Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) | 70 - 75% |
| Fibre | 18 - 21% |
| Calcium | 0.9 - 1.1% |
| Phosphorous | 0.4 - 0.5% |
Phase 6:
Dry Cow (60 Days Before Calving)
Nutritional Focus: Maintain body condition and prepare for next lactation.
| Nutrient | Requirement (% of Diet) |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein | 12 - 14% |
| Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) | 55 - 60% |
| Fibre | 25 - 30% |
| Calcium | 0.6 - 0.8% |
| Phosphorous | 0.3 - 0.4% |
Tracking Growth and Performance
To ensure optimal milk production and health, it is essential to regularly monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as milk yield, body condition score (BCS), and reproductive health. The following table illustrates a sample tracking schedule for a lactating cow:
| Stage | Average Milk Yield (liters/day) | DailyBody Condition Score (BCS) | Reproductive Health | Feed Efficiency (kg milk/kg feed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early Lactation | 30 - 40 | 2.5 - 3.0 | Regular estrus cycles | 1.4 - 1.6 |
| Peak Lactation | 40 - 50 | 2.5 - 3.0 | High conception rates | 1.5 - 1.7 |
| Mid Lactation | 25 - 35 | 2.75 - 3.25 | Maintaining pregnancy | 1.3 - 1.5 |
| Late Lactation | 25 - 30 | 3.0 - 3.5 | Preparing for dry period | 1.2 - 1.4 |
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