Nutritional Requirements of Dairy Cattle - Management and Nutrition - Merck Veterinary Manual
Nutritional Requirements of Dairy Cattle
OverviewDairy cows have high nutritional requirements during lactation, focusing on energy, protein needs, and rumen health.
Nutrition ComponentsKey components include:
Feed Intake
Carbohydrates
Energy
Fats
Protein
Water
Minerals
Vitamins
Feeding Guidelines for Large-Breed Dairy CattleReference ranges for nutritional needs based on body weight, including Dry Matter Intake (DMI), milk production, protein types, and energy values.
Key Feeding Parameters
Class | DMI (kg/day) | Milk Production (kg/day) | Crude Protein (%) | RDP (%) | RUP (%) | MP (%) | NE (Mcal/kg) | ME (Mcal/kg) | Calcium (%) | Phosphorus (%) |
Dry Cow (Far off) | 14 | 35 | 9.9 | 7.7 | 2.2 | 6.0 | 1.32 | 2.05 | 0.44 | 0.22 |
Fresh Cow - Early | 30 | 55 | 12.4 | 9.6 | 2.8 | 8.0 | 1.43 | — | 0.48 | 0.26 |
Fresh Cow - Late | 24 | 35 | 19.5 | 10.5 | 9.0 | 13.8 | 1.80 | — | 0.79 | 0.42 |
Feed Intake & EfficiencyMaximizing intake post-calving is vital to reduce energy imbalances. Factors influencing intake include feed compositional factors, physiological state, and management strategies.
CarbohydratesForm 60%-80% of dietary dry matter; balancing between structural and nonfiber carbohydrates is crucial for rumen health and energy.
EnergyMetabolizable Energy (ME) varies based on physiological needs; early lactation energy demands are significant and should not exceed 1.71–1.76 Mcal/kg to ensure fiber intake for health.
ProteinEssential for growth and milk synthesis; key systems for assessing protein include crude protein and metabolizable protein systems.
MineralsCalcium and phosphorus are critical for skeletal structures and milk production, along with other macrominerals and trace minerals for metabolic activity.
VitaminsImportant vitamins include A, D, E, and others that support various biological functions, often supplemented or derived from forages.
Water RequirementsWater is crucial for milk production and influenced by multiple factors; quality monitoring is essential.
ConclusionMeeting dairy cattle's nutritional needs requires careful balance and monitoring across various components throughout their physiological stages.