How can increase cow milk production

Question

Sathiyavarsha K · Answer

Increasing cow milk production involves a combination of proper feeding, health care, management, and breeding practices. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Balanced Nutrition

High-quality fodder: Provide green fodder like maize, sorghum, alfalfa, and legumes.

Dry fodder: Use wheat straw, paddy straw, or hay to maintain fiber intake.

Concentrates: Feed grains like maize, soybean meal, and commercial dairy concentrates to meet energy and protein needs.

Minerals & vitamins: Provide salt licks, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin supplements to prevent deficiencies.

Water: Ensure cows get 30–50 liters of clean water per day, as water intake directly affects milk yield.

2. Proper Milking Practices

Regular milking: Milk cows 2–3 times a day to stimulate production.

Clean and gentle milking: Prevent stress and infection.

Hygiene: Wash teats before and after milking to prevent mastitis.

3. Health Management

Vaccination: Keep cows vaccinated against common diseases.

Deworming: Regular deworming to improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

Check for mastitis: Early treatment prevents loss of milk and infection.

4. Comfort and Environment

Clean, dry, and ventilated shed: Stress reduces milk yield.

Temperature control: Provide shade in summer and warmth in winter.

Reduce stress: Avoid loud noise, overhandling, or sudden changes in routine.

5. Breeding Practices

High-yield breeds: Use breeds like Holstein Friesian, Jersey, or their crosses for higher milk production.

Artificial insemination: Helps improve genetics and milk yield in the herd.

Proper calving interval: Maintain 12–14 months between calvings for optimal lactation.

6. Additional Tips

Feed cows after milking, not before, to avoid discomfort.

Use silage or total mixed ration (TMR) for consistent nutrition during off-season.

Regular body condition scoring ensures cows are not too thin or overweight.