In a recent report by University of Guelph researchers C.D. Havekes, T.F. Duffield, A.J. Carpenter and T.J. DeVries it was determined that, “supplementing a molasses-based liquid feed in high-straw dry cow diets may improve feed intake and consistency in nutrients consumed during the dry period and in early lactation as well as possibly promoting better rumen health across the transition period.”

To learn more, check out this recent article by FeedStuff’s Tim Lundeen

According to Boehringer Ingelheim, providing proactive care throughout the transition period is crucial to help reduce calving-related disorders and it can also help boost milk production and extend cow longevity. Want to learn more about how to ensure your calving dairy cow has everything she needs during the critical time period before and following calving?

“There are three different rations: one that’s formulated on paper, one that gets mixed and fed and one that the cows actually eat,” said Dr. Jennifer Roberts, a veterinarian with Boehringer Ingelheim. “In a perfect world, these would all be the same, but in reality, cows can be picky eaters, and particular care needs to be given to ensure her ration is balanced for the cow’s metabolic needs and is properly mixed with the correct components and proper particle length to minimize sorting.”

This article covers an outline of nutritional needs during the transition period’s three milestones:

1. Dry Period
2. Calving
3. Postpartum

Check out this great article from Feedstuffs: https://www.feedstuffs.com/nutrition-health/prioritize-cow-well-being-throughout-transition-period

Looking for ways to help improve lactation performance? Here is some great info! In this article, Noah Litherland from the University Of Minnesota discusses 10 ways you can improve early lactation performance and peak milk yield:

“Peak milk is the highest recorded test day milk production in a cow’s first 150 days in milk (DIM). Historically, producers used peak milk as a measure of the success of dry period and early lactation nutrition and management. Peak milk indicates how well the cow responds to feeding practices during the dry period, calving and early lactation periods.

Most cows achieve peak milk by 45 to 90 DIM and then slowly lose production over time. Many cite that each added pound of peak milk could lead to 200 to 250 pounds more milk for the whole lactation. Nutrition and health disorders in early lactation affect peak milk. For example, low dietary fiber diet/sorting can lead to rumen acidosis, which can result in lameness or displaced abomasum. Both conditions can cause reduced peak milk.

Ten ways to improve early lactation performance and peak milk yield:
1. Start cows with a successful dry period

Research shows dry period nutrition and management affects health and performance after birth. Thus, evaluate your dry cow program if you’re unhappy with milk cow performance. Key goals for dry cows include: […]”

Read More Here.