Feed to maximize dry matter intake as soon as they freshen. Increase energy density of the high potential cow s diet to maximize energy intake per unit of feed consumed. Several factors interact to help optimize production by high potential cows. They include paying attention to detailed dry cow management along with transition program nutrition. This article will examine how to manage dry matter and energy intake, keeping optimum rumen function throughout the lactation.
Energy is the nutrient which drives milk production.
Most cows appetites are suppressed when they freshen. They go off feed to a certain extent. Intake will normally lag behind the onset of high production. During this time, the cow enters a period of negative energy balance, relying on body reserves to make up the gap and meet energy needs. If severe body condition loss results from this depletion of fat and protein reserves, it will directly affect milk production persistency and reproductive performance.