A14. Feeding and Nutrition of Dairy Cow in the Dry Period.

Question 1

Length and phases of the dry period

Answer 1

4 (days 305 to 365 after calving) “offical dry period”

5 transition phase (2 weeks before partuation)

Question 2

Aims of feeding in the different phases

Answer 2

Nutrient supply for the intensive development of fetus and of synthesis of immunglobulins
Not to overfeed –> fatty cow syndrome
Usually want to avoid Ca rich legumes /hays/silage

Question 3

Feeding phases

Types and daily amounts of feeds in the different phases,

Answer 3

of 2 phases
a) 40 days before calving: ad lib. meadow hay + 10-15 kg corn silage

b) 14-21 days before parturition: preparation period /transition priod
Gradual increase of concentrate (1-1.5 kg /day → up to 4-5 kg/day)

Question 4

Expression of protein and energy requirements,

Answer 4

30% of the daily ration for high-yielding dairy cows + ad lib. grass hay (TMR diet)
o 5.7-5.9 MJ NEl/kg DM
o 14-16% CP
o 13.5-14% NDF

Question 5

Suppliments

Answer 5

organic-bound microelements, yeast culture,
glycogenic supplements (propilen glycol: 200-300 ml /day)
mineral and vitamin premixes

Question 6

Prevention of hypocalcaemia/milk fever happened after calving: also see the lecture and practical about CAB

Ca and P turnover

Answer 6

Acidic chlorides and sulphates reduces occurance of parturient parhesis/paresis

CAB should be between -50 and -150; this slight acidosis promotes Ca mobilization from the bones

For this preparation;
o Anionic supplements (100 g NH4Cl +100 g MgSO4 per day)