Managing the nutrition program for cow comfort

Authors

James R. Dunham

Keywords

Dairy Day, 1997; Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station contribution; no. 98-100-S; Report of progress (Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service); 792; Dairy; Cow comfort; Acidosis; Forage quality; Nonfiber carbohydrates; Water

Abstract

Comfortable cows are contented cows. However, cows may be comfortable in their environment but also experience some discomfort because of the nutrition program. A good nutritional management program will improve desircow comfort by providing: 1) the proper balance of nutrients for efficient production; 2) buffers for high energy rations to prevent acidosis and consore feet; 3) rations in which grain cannot be consumed too rapidly; 4) rations with proper amounts of nonfiber carbohydrate; 5) highest quality forages during hot weather; 6) additional moisture in total mixed rations during hot weather; 7) a readily available water source; and 8) a bunk management system that encourages cows to eat.; Dairy Day, 1997, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 1997;

Recommended Citation

Dunham, James R. (1997) "Managing the nutrition program for cow comfort," Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports: Vol. 0: Iss. 2. https://doi.org/10.4148/2378-5977.3285