Beef and Dairy Cattle Nutrition

Fatty Liver in Dairy Cows: The Export Problem You’re Overlooking

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:29:49 GMT

The transition cow is often discussed as having an energy problem. Cows eat less, demand ramps up and they fall into negative energy balance. While true, this is only part of the story. The bigger issue is a logistical bottleneck: What happens to the fat that gets mobilized? If the cow cannot move that fat out of the liver efficiently, metabolic problems stack up quickly.

Why the Liver Gets Overwhelmed

Around calving, a cow’s dry matter intake drops by 30% to 35%, while energy demand increases sharply. To fill this gap, the cow mobilizes body fat and sends it to the liver. Once there, the fat follows three main paths:

Complete Oxidation: It is burned for fuel to generate ATP (energy).
Ketogenesis: It is converted into ketones.
Export: It is packaged and sent back into circulation to be used for milk synthesis.

When the volume of fat exceeds the liver’s capacity to process it, the system breaks down.

“Lipolysis happens, that adipose tissue is breaking down. Part is going to be used for milk synthesis, part is going to go for complete oxidation and generate ATP and part goes to ketogenesis. The third thing that happens is that triglycerides accumulate, and when the liver cannot keep up, fat builds up in the liver and we start to see metabolic problems in cows,” says Fabio Lima, assistant professor at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

Choline as the Liver’s “Shipping Crate”

The fundamental struggle for the modern dairy cow is her low capacity to export triglycerides from the liver as very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). Choline is the key ingredient needed to build the VLDL “package” that carries fat out of the liver cells.

“What we know about our modern dairy cows is that they have a low capacity to export triglycerides from the liver as VLDL. That inability to increase fatty acid oxidation or export is what leads our cows to develop fatty liver. Choline has been shown to be a key ingredient to reverse that,” Lima says.

By supporting the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a specific fat-transporting molecule, choline ensures the liver can keep up with the surge of fat mobilization.

“The modern dairy cow has been selected for high production. That creates a demand that makes nutrients like choline strategically important. It helps support that level of production,” Lima explains. “Choline is critical for VLDL assembly and hepatic fat export. And it’s critical to reduce fatty liver risk and minimize its impact. Phosphatidylcholine seems to depend on adequate choline, especially during the transition period.”

Why Rumen-Protection is Non-Negotiable

While choline is present in common feed ingredients like soybean meal, canola meal and forages, it is almost entirely degraded by rumen microbes before the cow can use it. Because natural feed sources rarely provide enough absorbable choline to meet the high demands of early lactation, rumen-protected choline is added to ensure the nutrient reaches the small intestine for absorption.

Despite the clear biological mechanism, the dairy industry is still refining exactly how much choline a cow needs. Because rumen dynamics are complex and every cow mobilizes fat differently, providing a one-size-fits-all dose remains a challenge.

“There has been 40 years of research, and we think, ‘Well, 40 years is a lot of research, we’re probably going to get some clear guidance.’ But we’re still not sure. There’s still the rumen dynamics and how much is metabolized, where it goes. All those things that make it difficult,” Lima says.

Rethink Transition Management

Success in the transition period requires looking beyond the feed bunk. The critical question is no longer just “Is she eating enough?” but rather: Is the transition cow able to handle the fat she is mobilizing?

Instead of focusing only on energy intake, it is equally important to consider how effectively the cow can process and move that energy. Supporting liver health through fat export is one of the most direct ways to reduce metabolic disorders and improve performance in the modern dairy cow.

Zeolite Strategies Reshape Milk Fever Management on Dairy Farms

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:13:41 GMT

Milk fever remains one of the most well-known metabolic diseases in dairy cattle, yet it is far from solved. While clinical cases still occur on most farms, the larger — and often more costly — challenge lies beneath the surface: subclinical hypocalcemia.

That’s why transition cow management continues to be a critical focus for veterinarians and producers alike.

“If you have transition cow issues, you’re going to have metabolic issues. Cows aren’t going to come in and perform the way you think they should. You’re going to have repro issues. You’re going to see a whole host of effects,” Meghan Connelly says, research and technical director at Protekta and guest on the most recent episode of “The Bovine Vet Podcast” .

Against that backdrop, a growing number of nutritionists and veterinarians are turning to zeolite-based pre-fresh diets, a relatively new approach that is reshaping how the industry manages calcium metabolism during the transition period.

The Hidden Burden of Hypocalcemia in Dairy Cows

On most dairies, clinical milk fever rates fall between 1% and 5%, depending on herd management and nutrition strategies. Subclinical hypocalcemia, however, is far more prevalent, affecting an estimated 25% to 45% of cows in many herds.

Unlike clinical cases, subclinical hypocalcemia is difficult to detect — but no less important.

“Subclinical is where we can’t see it, but it’s happening. The cow has low blood calcium, but we can’t tell that she’s low. But that still has consequences for the cow. There’s all these different systems and calcium is such a critical mineral for all those systems. So many different diseases that are influenced by calcium status,” Connelly says.

Instead of obvious signs, these cows often present as subtle inefficiencies that compound over time. Reduced rumination, lower feed intake and increased rates of retained placenta, metritis and mastitis are all commonly linked to inadequate calcium status. These hidden cases can quietly erode both performance and profitability.

DCAD Diets: The Traditional Approach to Milk Fever Prevention

For decades, the primary strategy for preventing milk fever has been the negative DCAD (dietary cation-anion difference) diet, which works by inducing a mild metabolic acidosis that improves the cow’s responsiveness to parathyroid hormone (PTH).

“We feed different feed supplements that contain anions in order to drop urine pH. When urine pH drops, the system is primed for PTH to work and mobilize bone and help support calcium homeostasis when the cow calves,” Connelly says.

This approach is well validated and remains a cornerstone of transition cow nutrition. However, it comes with practical constraints that can limit its use, particularly in larger or more complex feeding systems.

Where DCAD can create friction:

Requires consistent access to low-potassium forages
Can reduce dry matter intake due to metabolic acidification
Depends on monitoring tools such as urine pH
Often still requires post-calving calcium supplementation

As operations scale and feed variability increases, these limitations have driven interest in alternative strategies that can deliver similar or improved outcomes with fewer constraints.

(Meghan Connelly)

How Zeolite Works: A New Strategy for Hypocalcemia Management

Zeolite offers a fundamentally different approach to milk fever prevention, one that targets phosphorus rather than acid-base balance.

“When we feed a zeolite diet pre-fresh, we bind dietary phosphorus. The cow goes, ‘Oh, I better go get more phosphorus.’ The main storage for phosphorus is in the bone. When she mobilizes bone, she brings double the amount of calcium with it,” Connelly says, referencing the P:Ca ratio in bone.

By binding dietary phosphorus in the gastrointestinal tract, zeolite creates a mild, controlled drop in blood phosphorus. The cow responds by mobilizing bone reserves to restore balance. Because bone contains both phosphorus and calcium in a fixed ratio, this process results in a simultaneous release of calcium into circulation.

Unlike DCAD diets, which rely on parathyroid hormone sensitivity, zeolite operates through a separate pathway involving fibroblast growth factor-23, a hormone produced in bone cells that acts on the kidneys to regulate phosphate levels, and vitamin D metabolism. The outcome — improved calcium availability at calving — is similar, but the biological mechanism is distinct.

Why Zeolite Adoption Is Increasing on Dairy Farms

Although zeolite has only been available in the U.S. since 2017, adoption has accelerated rapidly, according to Connelly. Much of that momentum is driven by a combination of visible on-farm results and meaningful management advantages.

Producers implementing zeolite programs often report improved calcium status through the first 48 to 72 hours after calving, along with fewer clinical milk fever cases.

“If you go from having 30 down cows a month to four, that’s a pretty big change,” Connelly says, referencing the improvement she has seen on farms changing to zeolite.

Beyond clinical outcomes, zeolite introduces greater flexibility into ration formulation. Because it does not depend on lowering dietary potassium, producers can incorporate a wider range of forages — including haylage, rye and sorghum — that would typically be restricted in DCAD programs. This allows better use of homegrown feeds and can reduce reliance on purchased inputs.

Zeolite programs are also associated with reduced dependence on calcium supplementation after calving. With cows already mobilizing calcium effectively, the need for boluses and intravenous treatments often declines, lowering both labor and treatment costs.

Management simplicity is another advantage. Zeolite eliminates the need for urine pH monitoring and reduces the number of adjustments required in close-up groups. In addition, because it does not induce metabolic acidosis, it avoids the intake suppression sometimes observed with DCAD diets, helping support dry matter intake during a critical window.

Where Zeolite May Not Be the Best Fit

Despite its advantages, zeolite is not universally applicable. Its effectiveness depends heavily on overall diet composition, particularly phosphorus levels.

Situations where DCAD may still be the better fit:

Diets high in phosphorus (e.g., distillers grains, canola meal)
Operations with well-optimized DCAD programs already in place
Systems where tight ration control supports consistent acidification

In high-phosphorus diets, zeolite may become saturated, allowing the absorption of the remaining free phosphorus, reducing its effectiveness and making DCAD the more reliable strategy.

A Technology Still Evolving and the Veterinarian’s Role

Compared to DCAD, which has decades of supporting research, zeolite remains a relatively new tool. Since its introduction in 2017, both research and field experience have rapidly expanded understanding of how best to implement it.

“We didn’t necessarily know everything about it when it came out. I like to say that we continue to learn in real time with this strategy,” Connelly says.

Advances in feeding guidelines, monitoring approaches and troubleshooting frameworks have already improved consistency across farms, and further refinement is expected as adoption continues.

As that evolution continues, veterinarians are playing an increasingly central role. Transition cow programs are becoming more nuanced, and selecting the right strategy requires more than simply choosing between DCAD and zeolite. It involves identifying herd-level challenges, interpreting blood calcium data and aligning protocols with nutrition and management realities on each operation.

Close collaboration between veterinarians, nutritionists and producers remains essential. No single approach fits every farm, and the most successful programs are those tailored to available feed resources, labor capacity and herd goals.

Zeolite is not a replacement for DCAD, it is an expansion of the milk fever management toolbox.

It represents a shift from priming calcium regulation through acidification to directly driving mineral mobilization through phosphorus control. For many dairies, that shift is delivering higher blood calcium, fewer clinical cases and simpler management during one of the most critical periods in the production cycle.

As the industry continues to refine its use, zeolite is quickly moving from a novel concept to a practical, field-proven strategy in transition cow nutrition.

To hear more from Connelly on using zeolite for the management of transition cows to avoid hypocalcemia, listen to the full conversation on the latest episode of “The Bovine Vet Podcast.”

Does Every Calf Need a Gallon of Colostrum? Not Necessarily

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 22:04:43 GMT

For years, feeding a gallon of colostrum shortly after birth has been considered the gold standard for calf care. It’s simple, easy to remember and straightforward to train employees to follow. But today’s calves don’t all look the same. With more variation in size, some researchers are asking whether the same volume makes sense for every newborn.

During a recent “Dairy Health Blackbelt” podcast, Dr. Sabine Mann, associate professor at Cornell University, revisited the research behind that long-standing recommendation.

“One of the questions I have gotten frequently is, why are we feeding all calves a gallon of colostrum?” she says. “It’s a pretty widespread management strategy in the U.S. And if you try to dig into the literature of why that came about, there’s actually not that much evidence that that is the best approach for every calf.”

She notes that for an average 85- to 90-pound calf, four liters is probably appropriate. But not every calf falls into that range. When birthweights vary, feeding the same volume across the board may not always match what each individual calf truly needs.

Putting the Gallon Rule to the Test

To take a closer look at the gallon recommendation, Dr. Mann and her team conducted a study on a commercial dairy in collaboration with researchers at the University of Guelph.

They began by pooling colostrum to keep quality consistent across calves. From each pool, four calves were assigned different feeding levels based on a percentage of their body weight.

“We made a big pool of colostrum, and then we assigned four calves to that pool, and one calf got 6% and one calf got 8% and one calf got 10% and one calf got 12% so that was our range, six to 12,” Mann explains.

Rather than giving every calf the same fixed volume, the team adjusted how much colostrum each calf received relative to its size.

The intent was not to create a complicated system requiring producers to weigh every calf and calculate exact doses.

“This is not meant for people to weigh each and every single one of the calves and then figure out the milliliters,” Mann says. “But it’s for us to understand, is there an effect on the calf’s ability to take up IgG into circulation. And if there is, how would we translate this into actionable recommendations on farm.”

Ultimately, the study focused on whether feeding different amounts based on body weight would influence how well calves absorb the antibodies they need early in life.

More Isn’t Always Better

The study looked at how different colostrum volumes (as a percent of body weight) affected IgG in the blood, absorption efficiency, stomach emptying and calf comfort. As expected, bigger feeds gave calves more total IgG

“We found that the more volume they got within a certain quality of colostrum, the more IgG they had in their blood, which makes sense, right? The more you give, the more you get,” Mann says.

But the benefit slowed at the highest volume, 12% of the calf’s body weight.

“There was a declining return on investment, so to say, with increasing volumes,” Mann says. “There was a steep increase from 6% to 8% to 10% of body weight, but only a very small improvement in blood IgG concentration at 12% of body weight.”

This happened because calves absorbed a smaller proportion of the IgG when fed very large amounts.

“The proportion of the IgG in colostrum that actually appears in the blood was declining, meaning that the more volume you put into them, the less proportion the calf can actually take up into that in that window of time.”

When calves get a large meal, their stomach empties more slowly, so less colostrum reaches the intestine while the gut is still “open” to IgG absorption.

“We wanted to see if different volumes affect how the stomach empties colostrum into the intestine, and timing matters because the gut is only open for IgG absorption for a limited period.”

She compared it humans overeating during a holiday meal.

“We do this around Thanksgiving and Christmas, and we sit there and our belly hurts, right? Our systems know to slow down the gastric output in those situations, and that’s the same that happens in calves.”

Calf Comfort and Behavior

Dr. Mann’s team also looked at calf behavior, since small calves fed four liters often appear bloated or uncomfortable.

“We were interested in this notion from the field, and we did observe that the more volume we fed, the more we saw behavior associated with colic, like kicking the abdomen,” she says.

While lying time wasn’t significantly affected, higher volumes tended to reduce relaxed resting.

“We didn’t find a statistical effect in lying time, but those calves fed higher volumes tended to lie less in a relaxed position, similar to us at Thanksgiving,” she joked.

The “Goldilocks” Approach

When it comes to determining how much colostrum a calf truly needs, Mann describes the “Goldilocks” approach as the best option.

“I think we’re getting back to a Goldilocks approach where you want to have enough, but you don’t have to give too much,” she says. “Just the right amount is most beneficial to the calf.”

Based on this research, around 10% of a calf’s body weight is a solid target for an initial feeding. That amount provides enough immunoglobulins to support immunity without overwhelming the stomach, and it can be adjusted for smaller or larger calves.

Mann adds that while colostrum is packed with nutrients, extra benefits might be better delivered through multiple feedings rather than one very large meal.

“The nutritive value of colostrum should not be underestimated, but we also have to keep in mind the comfort of the calf,” she says. “Maybe it’s better given in separate feedings. A lot of farms have gone to feeding second feedings or even third feedings of colostrum.”

Practical Takeaways

While colostrum is essential for newborn calf health, Mann emphasizes that the goal isn’t to hit a fixed volume, but to give calves the right start while keeping them comfortable. She provides the following tips to use on the farm:

1. Know your herd’s average birth weight. “A good first step is to know the average birth weight of calves in your herd, since that can vary,” Mann says. “Once you know that, you can adjust the colostrum volume to match your average calf.”

2. Use a couple of standard volumes rather than one fixed size, “Many herds now use two standard volumes, like three liters and four liters. That way, even without a scale, you can look at a calf and decide: this one won’t be over 85 pounds, so it gets the smaller amount,” she says.

3. Consider second or third colostrum feedings. “Instead of giving all the colostrum at once, it can help to split it into two or three feedings if your farm can manage it,” Mann says. “Many people see benefits from this, though we could always use a bit more research to confirm.”

Mycotoxin Risk Holds Steady in 2025

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 19:49:12 GMT

According to the dsm-firmenich World Mycotoxin Survey , which assessed the global mycotoxin threat, 86% of North American samples tested above the recommended threshold for at least one mycotoxin. While mycotoxin levels haven’t necessarily escalated from 2024 to 2025, there was a shift in the distribution, which has some implications for cattle and swine operations.

“The 2025 results show a continued mycotoxin challenge, with contamination rates rising for both aflatoxins and zearalenone and average levels increasing across all major mycotoxins,” said Ursula Hofstetter, head of mycotoxin risk management at dsm-firmenich, in a press release.

The Major Players

Mycotoxins are toxic metabolites produced by fungi, most commonly Fusarium, Aspergillus and Claviceps species. They develop in the field and can persist through harvest and storage. Weather stress, hybrid selection and storage management all influence which toxins dominate in a given year.

The primary mycotoxins shaping North American livestock risk in 2025 were:

Deoxynivalenol (DON)
A Type B trichothecene produced by Fusarium species. Commonly found in corn and wheat. Often referred to as ‘vomitoxin’.
Zearalenone (ZEN)
Also a Fusarium toxin. Structurally estrogenic and frequently present alongside DON in corn and small grains.
Fumonisins (FUM)
Produced by Fusarium verticillioides and related species. Predominantly found in corn.
Aflatoxins (AFLA)
Produced by Aspergillus species. More common in drought- or heat-stressed corn.
Ergot alkaloids (ERGOT)
Produced by Claviceps species. Typically associated with small grains.

These toxins rarely occur in isolation. Co-contamination often shapes the reality producers see on the farm.

What Changed from 2024 to 2025

The 2025 North American mycotoxin prevalence in raw materials compared to 2024 shows the following shifts:

DON: 74% → 76%
ZEN: 73% → 78%
FUM: 46% → 55%
AFLA: 15% → 17%
ERGOT: 44% → 9%

Trichothecenes remain deeply entrenched, with DON prevalence increasing slightly. Most of this increase is a result of an increase in wheat (73% → 93%). Meanwhile, fumonisins rose meaningfully and ergots dropped sharply.

Cattle: Rumen Function, Immune Resilience and Production Losses

Cattle historically are considered somewhat more resilient to mycotoxins than monogastrics, owing to partial ruminal detoxification. However, evidence increasingly shows persistent exposure to Fusarium toxins like DON, ZEN and FUM, especially in combination, can exert significant effects on digestion, immunity and metabolic health.

When looking at global finished feed samples for ruminants:

DON was prevalent in 69% of samples and above the risk threshold in 53% of samples.
ZEN was prevalent in 73% of samples and above the risk threshold in 33% of samples.
AFLA was present in 34% of samples and above the risk threshold in 29% of samples.

Studies have demonstrated short-term exposure to Fusarium toxins, including ZEN and FUM, affects fermentation patterns and the microbial community, which in turn can reduce fiber breakdown and volatile fatty acid production — key drivers of energy supply in cattle. Even modest disruptions to the rumen microbiota can reduce feed efficiency and gain over time.

The immune system is also affected by mycotoxins. The immunosuppressive effects of common mycotoxins in ruminants have been documented , including alterations in cytokine gene expression, immunoglobulin production and macrophage function.

Further, individual toxins like AFLA have well-established effects on liver function and general metabolism in cattle. Chronic AFLA exposure has been linked to reduced appetite, lower weight gains and elevated liver enzymes, indicating compromised hepatic function that can impact production and health resilience.

These findings indicate how cattle performance and disease resistance can be eroded by the mycotoxin patterns reported in the 2025 data. Persistent DON and ZEN exposure, combined with higher FUM presence, places additional load on rumen fermentation and immune competence, potentially contributing to subclinical production drift.

Swine: Immune Disruption, Gut Barrier Injury and Performance Drag

In swine, elevated prevalence of DON, ZEN and FUM can exert systemic effects on immune function, gut integrity and reproductive physiology at both clinical and subclinical levels.

When looking at global finished feed samples for swine:

DON was present in 85% of samples and above the risk threshold in 41% of samples.
ZEN was present in 79% of samples and above the risk threshold in 19% of samples.
FUM was present in 44% of samples and above the risk threshold in 8% of samples.

Research has shown DON and FUM alter the gut epithelial barrier, impair immune defenses and increase bacterial translocation from the gut, making pigs more susceptible to infections even when properly vaccinated. In the immune tissues themselves, DON exposure has been linked to changes in the gene expression of key antimicrobial and inflammatory regulators, implying a weakened ability to respond to disease challenge at the cellular level.

ZEN adds another layer of complexity. Beyond its well-known estrogenic effects (i.e., swelling of reproductive tissues and altered estrous cycles), ZEN has been shown to suppress antibody production in porcine immune cells, reducing levels of IgM, IgG and IgA. These immunoglobulins are important for protective vaccine responses. This explains why farms employing what should be effective vaccination programs still report breakthrough disease.

Collectively, these mechanisms mean widespread DON and ZEN exposure is a disease vulnerability issue. When the gut barrier is compromised and immune cell function is suppressed, pigs are less able to defend against respiratory pathogens, enteric bacteria and systemic infections alike, and their response to vaccination may be diminished.

Mycotoxin Co-Contamination Defines 2025

The defining feature of mycotoxins in 2025 is not a single toxin spike, but co-contamination. Feeds routinely contain multiple mycotoxins at once and their effects overlap, creating steady biological pressure.

The result is rarely dramatic toxicosis, but production drift is reflected in reduced gains, narrower reproductive margins, lowered health resilience and increased performance variability.

With persistent DON, rising ZEN and higher FUM prevalence in North America, ingredient-level vigilance and close monitoring of performance trends are important. The mycotoxin burden did not spike, but it did rearrange.

Managing Vitamins and Minerals to Increase Calf Survival

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 21:31:03 GMT

Stillbirths and weak newborn calves are among the most frustrating outcomes in both beef and dairy systems. Calving difficulty, infectious disease and congenital defects are often investigated first, yet many cases end with no clear explanation. Even when calving appears normal, losses still occur leaving veterinarians and producers searching for answers after the fact.

Dr. Bob Van Saun, professor and Extension veterinarian at Penn State University, spoke on the importance of maternal nutrition and the placental transfer of vitamins and minerals on a recent episode of AABP’s “Have You Herd?” podcast.

What often goes unnoticed is the gestational environment that shaped the fetus long before calving began. Nutritional decisions made months earlier, particularly around vitamins and trace minerals, can quietly determine whether a calf is born resilient, compromised or nonviable. Rather than being isolated calving failures, some stillbirths might represent the final outcome of inadequate fetal preparation.

“If we don’t do what we need to do nutritionally for that pregnant animal, we could have very long-term effects not only on the reproductive success of the female, but also on the offspring,” Van Saun says.

Newborn Calves Enter the World Nutritionally Limited

Newborn calves, whether beef or dairy, arrive with a biological disadvantage: milk alone cannot meet their trace mineral and vitamin needs.

“We often tout milk as nature’s perfect food, and it certainly plays a very important role in the macro minerals and in energy and protein, but one of the things that’s been well known is milk does not have significant quantities of most of the trace elements. Particularly iron, copper, selenium and even some of the vitamins aren’t in high quantities within the milk,” Van Saun says.

Trace minerals and vitamins are essential for enzyme function, immune development and antioxidant defense, yet the neonatal diet provides very little of them. As a result, the calf’s ability to survive early life depends heavily on what accumulated before birth, particularly in the fetal liver.

“With some of the work that’s been done, we’re starting to recognize that the mineral status of that newborn calf is very dependent upon how we feed mom,” Van Saun says.

In addition to gestational nutrient transfer, colostrum is an important way to get calves off on the right foot, especially with fat soluble vitamins, so long as the mother has been appropriately supplemented.

Placental Transfer of Minerals and Vitamins

Minerals and vitamins reach the fetus through the placenta, but not all nutrients behave the same way. Trace minerals appear to move primarily by facilitated diffusion, rather than active transport. Van Saun explains that as a result, fetal blood concentrations are typically much lower than maternal blood concentrations.

Once those nutrients enter fetal circulation, the liver becomes the key storage site. However, the complete mechanism by which these nutrients are stored in the liver is not well understood.

“If you remember the anatomy, the umbilical vein goes directly to the liver. It’s my thinking that the fetal liver somehow captures these minerals and stores them,” Van Saun says. “The fetal liver can concentrate these trace elements to a level that’s nearly twice what we typically see in the dam. We need to find out what influences this.”

In contrast, fat-soluble vitamins cross the placenta inefficiently, particularly later in gestation, leaving newborn calves relatively depleted at birth and heavily reliant on colostrum to establish antioxidant protection.

Maternal Mineral Deficiencies and Fetal Loss

At the Penn State diagnostics lab, mineral and vitamin analyses of fetal and stillborn calf livers have revealed a surprising number of incidences of deficiency. Despite expectations of a linear relationship between maternal mineral status and fetal mineral status, there appears to be very little direct relationship.

“When I plot maternal versus fetal concentrations, I generally see a shotgun scattergram,” Van Saun explains. “That makes me think there’s got to be some other regulatory process there.”

Across the data, several nutrients appear repeatedly in association with fetal loss and stillbirth. Van Saun highlights the following:

Copper: Essential for enzyme systems and antioxidant defense
Selenium: Critical for glutathione peroxidase activity
Zinc: Involved in cellular and immune development
Magnesium: Supports energy metabolism and neuromuscular stability
Vitamin A: Needed for epithelial development and antioxidant defense

Oxidative Stress at Birth

As umbilical blood flow is compromised during delivery, particularly during prolonged or difficult births, the fetus experiences hypoxia.

“That’s going to produce large quantities of reactive oxygen species,” Van Saun explains. “And if those aren’t squelched by the antioxidant system, that could cause the demise of the animal.”

Trace minerals and fat-soluble vitamins play central roles in the defense against reactive oxygen species. When fetal reserves are marginal, oxidative stress during calving might push a compromised fetus past a survivable threshold. This could help explain why some stillborn calves show no obvious infectious, genetic or mechanical cause at necropsy.

Why Overfeeding Isn’t Usually the Problem

A common concern is whether aggressive mineral supplementation could harm the fetus. However, even in dams with liver mineral levels that would be considered toxicosis, fetal levels remain within a narrow range.

“When maternal concentrations of liver minerals are very low, the fetal maternal ratio is quite high. In other words, the fetus is capable of extracting more mineral from a deficient mom,” Van Saun says. “But as mom’s mineral status increases to very high levels, the ratio is quite low. Suggesting that there is some mechanism in place where the fetus doesn’t over accumulate.”

Van Suan observed this most profoundly with copper, but has also seen the same pattern with zinc, iron, selenium and manganese.

“Somehow, Mother Nature has built in a protective mechanism on both ends of the spectrum ensuring even when mom is on the low side, the fetus can try to accumulate,” he says. “And then if mom is on the high side, the fetus doesn’t over-accumulate.”

Stillborn Calves as Nutritional Sentinels

Stillborn calves represent an underused opportunity to evaluate herd nutrition. Liver mineral and vitamin analysis from stillborn calves can uncover deficiencies that were not clinically apparent in the dam.

“We really need to emphasize how to make a good situation out of a bad situation,” Van Saun says. “I think if you’re having a string of stillborns, I would be wanting to take a liver sample.”

Repeated measures of low selenium, copper, or vitamin A in stillborn calves, especially in the absence of other pathology, can point back to gestational nutrition as the root cause.

What Can You Do to Get Ahead of the Problem?

Effective investigation of stillbirths and weak calves should begin with diet evaluation, but meaningful assessment of gestational nutrition requires a broader, more deliberate strategy. A clearer understanding can be gained by using multiple diagnostic entry points across the herd and across time.

Van Saun highlights several practical diagnostic opportunities:

Submitting liver samples from stillborn calves when infectious and congenital causes are not identified
Using cull cow or abattoir liver samples to establish baseline mineral status
Sampling healthy animals within defined physiologic groups, rather than sick cows in inflammatory states
Building longitudinal data rather than interpreting isolated results

Taken together, these approaches allow the shift from reactive troubleshooting to proactive risk management.

Stillbirths and weak calves are often the final expression of biological constraints established months earlier not failures limited to the calving event.

Biotics in Bovines: Postbiotic Applications for Dairy Cattle

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 20:03:00 GMT

Dairy cattle nutrition is increasingly being designed to shape the microbiome, not just to feed it. Postbiotics represent the third category in that effort. Rather than supplying live microbes (probiotics) or microbial substrates (prebiotics), postbiotics are the beneficial compounds microbes produce, without the organisms themselves.

This matters because high-producing dairy cows operate under tight metabolic margins. Transition stress, rapid shifts in energy demand, and rumen fermentation instability can all disrupt gut integrity and immune balance. Postbiotics offer a way to influence those systems even when microbial populations are stressed, inconsistent or slow to stabilize.

This is the fifth installment of the Biotics in Bovines series where we will explore the role and application of prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics in dairy and beef cattle nutrition. Each installment will examine a different facet of microbiome-focused nutrition from how these products work to what recent research says about their effectiveness and on-farm value. The goal is to help veterinarians and producers make informed, evidence-based decisions about integrating biotic feed technologies into herd health and performance programs.

Postbiotics are non-living microbial products that interact with the rumen and immune systems. They commonly include:

Yeast Fermentation Products
Lactic Acid Bacteria Metabolites
Inactivated Bacteria

These compounds can be used to strengthen gut barrier integrity, support immune signaling, encourage resilience in fiber-fermenting microbes and reduce the impact of stress-related dysbiosis. Unlike probiotics, they do not require survival through pelleting, storage or rumen passage, which could be a practical advantage on the farm.

Evidence in Dairy Systems

In dairy calves , yeast fermentation products fed in the milk replacer had greater postweaning average daily gains and body weights with similar feed intake. These calves also had improved rumen absorption (observed as increased plasma volatile fatty acid concentrations) and increased immune response to lipopolysaccharide stimulation at weaning.

During the transition period , postbiotics containing yeast fermentation products have been shown to improve the lactation performance and metabolic status of dairy cows. This supplementation reduced inflammation and enhanced liver metabolic function resulting in greater milk fat and improved energy corrected milk yield.

One study in lactating dairy cattle investigated whether the incorporation of yeast fermentation products had any effect on the prevention and control of digital dermatitis. They found that postbiotic treatment decreased the risk of cattle having ulcerative and active lesions and slowed the negative progression of lesions.

In dairy cattle with mastitis , the administration of a heat-killed Lactococcus lactis postbiotic was as effective in eliciting a localized immune response as the administration of live L. lactis. Postbiotic treated cattle had an equally potent interleukin-8 response and cure rates based on somatic cell counts compared to probiotic treated cattle. These results could have beneficial implications for farmers worried about the shelf-life of live probiotics.

Practical On-Farm Guidance

Consider incorporating postbiotics into your milk replacer. Postbiotics can support healthy rumen and hind-gut development jump-starting calves for their postweaning lives.
Use postbiotics to strategically support the immune system. This includes stressful events such as heat stress events, group/pen changes and vaccination periods.
Check the label. Dose and duration guidelines vary by product and production stage.
Postbiotics are less susceptible to environmental conditions than probiotics. This might make them a better fit for your farm.

Limitations and Research Gaps

Postbiotics are relatively new to ruminant nutrition. Extensive research has not yet been completed and the most effective metabolite combinations may remain to be discovered. The long-term effects across multiple lactations remain uncertain; using postbiotics as precision tools rather than as blanket-use additives might be most beneficial.

Actionable Takeaways

Start where the risk is the highest. Prioritize young calves or transition cows where the research shows the clearest and most repeatable benefits.
Choose products with a clearly stated microbial source and processing method. ‘Fermentation product’ tells you very little about what you are feeding. Look for specific strain and process information.
Pair postbiotics with management, not instead of management. Foot baths, milking hygiene, feed access and bunk management still drive outcomes. Postbiotics can support these efforts, but they don’t replace them.
Reassess during quiet periods. Once stressors ease, evaluate whether continued supplementation still provides return on investment.

Your next reads:
Biotics in Bovines: Prebiotic Applications for Beef Cattle
Biotics in Bovines: Prebiotic Applications for Dairy Cattle
Biotics in Bovines: Probiotic Applications for Dairy Cattle
Biotis in Bovines: Probiotic Applications for Beef Cattle

Rethink the First Feeding: Calf Health Begins with Smarter Colostrum Strategies

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 15:16:06 GMT

For decades, dairy producers have fed newborn calves based on standard protocols for first-milking colostrum, but as Dr. Donald Sockett and Dr. Ryan Breuer from the University of Wisconsin noted on a recent Raising Your Best Dairy Heifer webinar, the underlying assumptions might be due for revision.

“The current colostrum feeding guidelines that are considered best practices today were developed a little more than two decades ago,” Breuer says. “So we’ve had some time to observe what’s going on with it and whether we need to make some changes or not.”

Sockett explains that the conventional gold standard of 50 grams of immunoglobulin G (IgG) per liter, which the guidelines are based on, was reasonable back then, but times have changed.

“The average here is 75 g to 95 g per liter,” he says. “Why would we build a program around fair [quality] colostrum?”

Because calves are receiving colostrum of higher quality than what the older guidelines are built around, feeding volumes and methods might need adjustment.

In a recent case report , Sockett and Breuer described a Holstein heifer that received what is considered best practice for colostrum delivery based on 10% body weight: 4 liters of first-milking colostrum 30 minutes after birth and an additional 2 liters six hours after the first feeding. Shortly after the second feeding, the calf developed colic and was in apparent pain. This animal was humanely euthanized less than 24 hours later after a lack of response to on-farm medical care.

According to the attending veterinarian, this was not a one-off case.

“This wasn’t the only calf at this dairy,” Breuer says. “The veterinarian had also seen similar situations at other dairies where these calves, after the recommended colostrum feeding, had distress or colic.”

Upon necropsy, they noticed incidents of aspiration in the lungs. It was concluded aspiration pneumonia killed the calf after some colostrum was regurgitated due to a distended abomasum from colostrum volume.

This report emphasizes the need to reevaluate colostrum feeding standards.

In September, Frederick and colleagues from Cornell University published a study looking into the effects of feeding colostrum at 6%, 8%, 10% or 12% of a calf’s body weight on IgG absorption, gastric emptying and postfeeding behavior.

Gastric emptying is an important factor as no colostrum absorption occurs in the abomasum. Passage to the small intestine in a timely manner before absorption efficiency goes down is key. Calves fed at 10% and 15% of their body weight had significantly lower apparent efficiency of absorption of IgG rates and showed significantly more behavioral signs of discomfort (abdomen kicks) than those fed 6% and 8%.

“So yes, you’re feeding a bigger mass of immunoglobulin when you feed these larger body weight [percentages], but if your efficiency of absorption is going down and you have these health complications, is that really the best thing for the calf?” Sockett says.

A study of 818 calves across 61 Holstein dairy farms by Morin and colleagues at the University of Montreal looked into how colostrum management practices impacted transfer of passive immunity (TPI). They found that the No. 1 factor affecting apparent IgG absorption was the concentration of IgG in the colostrum, or colostrum quality. Calves fed colostrum with a Brix value over 24.5% were almost three times more likely to have received adequate TPI. Additionally, calves fed equal to or greater than 2.5 liters of colostrum at their first meal (notably less than 10% of the calves body weight) within three hours of birth had the highest odds of receiving adequate TPI.

This adds weight to Sockett’s assertion.

“Think about our recommendation standards,” he says. “We haven’t even been talking about the two most important variables of effective efficiency of colostrum absorption. We have to start thinking about the quality of the colostrum and the mass of colostrum being delivered.”

If you’re creating a colostrum feeding program for a dairy operation, Sockett and Breuer recommend collecting a database of information of what’s going on in the herd. Answer the following questions to tailor the program to your farm:

What is the average birth weight of the calves? What are the lightest and heaviest animals?
Are you feeding pooled or individual colostrum?
What is the normal weight of the colostrum?
What is the mean and standard deviation of the Brix scores?
What is the timing of first colostrum delivery?
What are your TPI goals?

The idea is not to abandon colostrum best practices but to update them strategically. By refining colostrum feeding protocols, verifying colostrum quality, aligning volume with body weight and monitoring outcomes, dairy operations can create their own evidence-based practice. The result? Healthier calves, fewer complications and better use of that liquid gold.

Biotics in Bovines: Probiotic Applications for Dairy Cattle

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 15:23:30 GMT

As antibiotic stewardship and sustainability become central goals for the dairy sector, probiotics are gaining attention as a way to strengthen cattle health and performance. Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer a health benefit to the host. In dairy cattle, they can stabilize the rumen function, support immune balance, and improve growth and milk performance. Recent work has shown certain bacterial and yeast strains are a promising tool for application in dairy herds.

This is the third installment of the Biotics in Bovines series where we will explore the role and application of prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics in dairy and beef cattle nutrition. Each installment will examine a different facet of microbiome-focused nutrition from how these products work to what recent research says about their effectiveness and on-farm value. The goal is to help veterinarians and producers make informed, evidence-based decisions about integrating biotic feed technologies into herd health and performance programs.

You can find links to the first installments at the end of this article.

Probiotics used in dairy cattle include a wide range of bacteria and yeasts, each with distinct mechanisms of action. Common groups include:

Lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, Bifidobacterium): Enhance intestinal barrier function and suppress pathogenic bacteria.
Bacillus species: Spore-forming bacteria that can reduce inflammatory responses.
Yeasts (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Kluyveromyces marxianus): Improve rumen fermentation, fiber digestion and feed efficiency.

These organisms act by stabilizing the rumen and intestinal microbiome, enhancing volatile fatty acid (VFA) production, reducing lactic acid accumulation and strengthening mucosal immunity.

Evidence in Dairy Cattle

Calves and Heifers

A 2025 meta-analysis including 55 studies reported feeding probiotics to dairy calves might be beneficial for enhancing dry-matter intake (DMI), starter intake and average daily gain (ADG). However, results across studies were variable, as were the type of probiotic used. Supplementation with Bacillus spp. and Lactobacillus spp. was found to increase ADG, while Lactobacillus spp. increased starter intake.

Probiotic supplementation has also been used to mitigate calf diarrhea related to Clostridium perfringens. In a challenge study using colostrum-deprived dairy calves, daily feeding of Lactobacillus animalis and Propionibacterium freudenreichii before, during and after an oral challenge of C. perfringens significantly reduced the incidence and severity of diarrhea and improved survival compared to controls.

Lactating and Transition Cows

Both qualitative and quantitative improvements to milk production have been observed with probiotic supplementation. Lactating dairy cows fed S. cerevisiae had increased DMI and milk yield compared to controls. This yield increase was thought to be a consequence of an improved rumen environment (pH, VFA ratios). Yeast supplementation has also been shown to increase milk protein content via enhanced microbial crude protein.

Probiotics have also been shown to support cattle through the transition period when fat stores in the body are being mobilized. A probiotic blend including Bacillus spp. fed in the weeks surrounding calving has been shown to be beneficial for supporting liver function, while a yeast-bacteria mixture fed to transition cows increased DMI and milk fat percentage.

Intravaginal probiotics have also been investigated for transition cows. The application of a freeze-dried lactic acid bacteria culture before and after calving increase milk yield and feed efficiency, with a greater effect on multiparous cows compared to primiparous cows. Intravaginal probiotic application has also been shown to improve uterine involution postpartum, decrease incidence of uterine infection and increase conception rates at first insemination.

Practical On-Farm Guidance

Prioritize products with clear strain identification and dosage instructions. The type of probiotic you want to use will change depending on animal age and production stage.
Match product type to production phase.
- Calves: Use lactic acid bacteria in milk replacer or starter feeds to support early gut development and reduce scours.
- Transition cows: Target yeast- or Bacillus-based probiotics to improve rumen stability, feed intake and immune balance. Consider intravaginal applications for reproductive health.
- Lactating cows: Consider Bacillus or yeast strains to support fiber digestion.
Maintain consistent feeding and delivery. Probiotic organisms should be ingested daily to remain effective. Interruptions in feeding can negate benefits.
Monitor outcomes. If you don’t measure it, you can’t manage it. Track performance and health data so you know what is and isn’t working for your herd.

Limitations

While probiotics show broad potential, their efficacy depends heavily on strain, dose and management. The complexity of the rumen environment means that not all strains may be effective and every dose. Results are most reliable when using stage-specific, well-characterized strains with proven viability under farm conditions.

Actionable Takeaways

Start early for best results. Introduce probiotics in milk replacer during the first two weeks of life to reduce diarrhea risk and support rumen development.
Target the transition period. Feeding probiotics from three weeks precalving through 30 days in milk can help stabilize DMI, support liver function and improve reproductive performance.
Feed through stress events. During heat stress, transport or ration changes, probiotic supplementation can help maintain rumen pH stability and DMI.
Evaluate cost-benefit periodically. The economic return depends on herd health status and management; probiotics tend to be most profitable when used strategically.

Your next reads:
Biotics in Bovines: Prebiotic Applications for Beef Cattle
Biotics in Bovines: Prebiotic Applications for Dairy Cattle

What Shapes Feed Efficiency in Dairy Cows?

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 16:09:33 GMT

Feed efficiency, and how we can use it as a management tool on dairy farms, has grown in interest. As a part of a series discussing this topic, this article explores the key factors that influence feed efficiency.

In this article, Feed Efficiency specifically refers to energy-corrected milk divided by dry matter intake (ECM/DMI), an on-farm metric to evaluate cows’ conversion of feed into milk.

What Influences Feed Efficiency?
Feed efficiency is a simple ratio summarizing a very complex biological concept: how effectively a cow converts feed energy into milk. Because it represents such a broad system, many factors can influence this number.

These can be grouped into four broad areas:

Lactation Stage
Feed Formulation and Digestibility
Stress and Management
Genetics

Lactation Stage
A cow’s energy use shifts throughout lactation. In early lactation, she is often in negative energy balance, drawing on body reserves (primarily fat) to support milk production.This “borrowed energy” effect inflates feed efficiency numbers since ECM/DMI only accounts for feed consumed, not energy mobilized from the body.

Later in lactation, cows divert energy toward pregnancy and restoring body condition. Additionally, first-lactation animals allocate some energy toward growth. In these cases, feed efficiency appears lower because energy used for these important, but non-milk functions, isn’t reflected in ECM/DMI.

Feed Formulation and Digestibility
Feed efficiency improves when cows extract more nutrients from the same amount of feed. Highly digestible feeds enhance nutrient absorption and generally lead to greater efficiency. Feed quality, influenced by forage harvest timing, processing and hygiene, plays a critical role in diet digestibility and overall efficiency. It’s important to note more digestible rations often increase feed intake. While higher intake levels can reduce overall diet digestibility slightly, the benefit of increased nutrient intake and milk production typically outweighs this effect, up to a point. When increased intakes are accompanied by higher milk yield, feed efficiency values may remain similar, but cows can be more economically efficient, as illustrated in Table 1.

(Katelyn Goldsmith)

Stress and Management
Feed efficiency decreases when cows spend energy on non-productive functions. These “energy sinks” include immune responses to disease, efforts to regulate temperature, bunk or lying space competition, and excessive standing and walking.

In short, stressers that force cows to use energy will reduce feed efficiency. Minimizing stress and improving comfort are essential to support efficient energy use.

Genetics
Genetic differences affect how efficiently cows convert feed to milk. Research in this area continues to grow. The residual feed intake (RFI) trait measures how much a cow eats relative to expected intake for her size, production, and growth. RFI has been introduced and included in multiple breeding indexes. Additional feed efficiency traits are being researched.

While the genetic basis of feed efficiency isn’t fully understood, research suggests the influences include the cow’s unique rumen microbial populations, nutrient partitioning, tissue metabolism and other mechanisms.

Feed Efficiency: What are the Typical Ranges?
Cows’ feed efficiency values typically range from 1.3 to 1.8, depending on lactation stage. First-lactation animals generally fall slightly lower than mature cows. While this article uses energy-corrected milk (ECM) as the standard for evaluating feed efficiency, many published reference values, like those shown in Table 2 from Hutjens (2013), are based on 3.5% fat-corrected milk (FCM). These values still provide useful context and a general sense of expected ranges. The formula used to calculate 3.5% FCM is: (0.432 × lb of milk) + (16.22 × lb of milk fat).

(Katelyn Goldsmith)

Conclusion
Feed efficiency condenses a complex biological system into a single number. However, many interacting factors influence this metric, including nutrition, management and genetics. By understanding these influences, farms can better leverage feed efficiency as a management tool. The next article in this series will explore management strategies that can influence feed efficiency.

Your Next Read:
Feed Efficiency: A Basic Metric for a Complex System

Biotics in Bovines: Prebiotic Applications for Dairy Cattle

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 01:37:30 GMT

Dairy industry professionals are increasingly turning attention to the gut microbiome as a tool to reduce disease, improve growth and protect herd productivity without relying on routine antibiotics. Prebiotics — non-digestible feed substrates that selectively feed beneficial microbes — are one practical, low-risk option.

This article kicks off a series where we will explore the role and application of prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics in dairy and beef cattle nutrition. Each installment will examine a different facet of microbiome-focused nutrition from how these products work to what recent research says about their effectiveness and on-farm value. The goal is to help veterinarians and producers make informed, evidence-based decisions about integrating biotic feed technologies into herd health and performance programs.

The most common prebiotics supplemented to dairy cattle include:

Fructooligosaccharides
Mannanoligosaccharides
Galactooligosaccharides
Inulin
Beta-glucans

These are commonly sourced from yeast cell walls, yeast culture and agro-industrial wastes. While the main goal of prebiotic use is to provide substrate for beneficial gut bacteria, they can also modulate immune response and bind to harmful pathogens. Prebiotics fermented by select gut microbes can lead to the production of short-chain fatty acids, gut pH lowering (which inhibits harmful bacteria), enhanced gut barrier function and immune modulation.

In dairy cattle, the primary goals of prebiotic use are enhanced milk production and quality, to support gut health and immunity (especially high-stress periods), and to improve nutrient absorption. Calves have been shown to respond well to prebiotic supplementation, while results in adult cows are more varied.

Recent calf trials report the clearest, most consistent benefits.

Fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) supplementation during the nursing period has been shown to support hindgut maturation, increase persistence of beneficial Bifidobacterium, and improve average daily gain in newborn dairy calves. These outcomes make FOS attractive for calf rearing protocols aimed at reducing diarrhea and improving early growth.

Mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) and inulin have a similarly strong calf focused-evidence base. Experimental work indicates MOS can improve average daily gain and reduce pathogenic Escherichia coli in the feces. In a calf study investigating the effects of inulin supplementation, increased physical rumen development was observed in 3-week-old calves fed for two months.

Trials in adult lactating cows show inconsistent production responses. Some studies have suggested that inulin supplementation can increase milk production, possibly through upregulated rumen volatile fatty acid concentrations , and enhance antioxidant and immune function. Meanwhile, MOS supplementation has been shown to decrease the populations of harmful fungi in the rumen.

Overall, more variable responses should be expected in adult cows because the mature rumen ecosystem buffers dietary changes, reducing the impact of prebiotics.

Practical, On-Farm Guidance

Choose the right target and the right product. Prioritize prebiotics for calves for diarrhea reduction, average daily gain improvement and gut maturation, where evidence is the strongest. For adult cows, focus on well-documented products or use prebiotics as a part of a combined synbiotic strategy.
Match form and timing to the goal. For calves, FOS or MOS in milk replacer is practical and supported by trials. For dry or fresh cows, consider top dressing or inclusion in the TMR for specific use cases.
Start with a controlled trial. Test a product in a defined pen or cohort. Track clear outcomes: fecal scores, average daily gain, time to weaning, medicine use, and for cows somatic cell count, milk yield, and disease treatments. Compare the cost versus the value of reduced disease treatments and labor.
Watch interactions and quality. Prebiotic effects vary with dose, base diet and other additives. Use products with transparent specifications and consult existing trial data.

Limitations and Research Gaps

Ruminant probiotic research is growing, but not uniform: neonates and young calves respond more reliably than adult cows, and product heterogeneity makes generalizations risky. Large on-farm replication trials, and longer-term studies on lifetime productivity and economics are still needed to fully understand the impact prebiotics can have on adult dairy cow performance.

Actionable Takeaways

Use prebiotics first in calf programs where diarrhea and average daily gain are priorities.
Run a small, controlled on-farm trial with clear metrics to determine what works for you.
For lactating cows, use prebiotics as part of multi-modal strategies and set conservative return on investment expectations.

The Impact of Low Trace Minerals in Cattle May Be Bigger Than You Expect

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 17:12:14 GMT

Trace minerals — including copper, selenium, zinc, manganese and cobalt — are needed in vanishingly small amounts. However, when these nutrients fall even the smallest bit short of a cow’s needs, the consequences can be significant. These results can include slower growth, compromised immunity and poor reproduction.

Although trace minerals make up less than 0.01% of an animal’s body weight, they’re fundamental co-factors in enzymes, antioxidants, metabolic and immune pathways. Subclinical deficiencies may be a more extensive problem as the symptoms are not evident and there is no intervention, leading to economic losses.

David Schaeffer, professor at the University of Illinois, and his colleagues recently published work analyzing trace mineral concentrations from beef and dairy livers submitted to the California Animal Health & Food Safety Lab System laboratory between 2012 and 2021. The aim of this work was to compare any correlation patterns of copper, selenium, and manganese contents, and incidence of disease.

This work included 1,495 liver samples collected from cattle submitted for diagnostic testing. They were categorized as beef (857) or dairy (638), and further grouped by age (neonates, adolescents and adults).

The study revealed significant differences between deficiencies in beef and cattle. Overall, 73% of beef cattle and 45% of dairy cattle were found to be deficient in at least one trace mineral. In beef cattle, 46% of cattle were deficient in selenium, while 39% were deficient in manganese and 33% were deficient in copper. In dairy cattle, 10% of cattle were deficient in selenium, while 37% were deficient in manganese, and only 5% were deficient in copper.

(Adapted from Schaeffer et al., 2025)

The observed increased incidence of deficiency in beef cattle is likely expected as these animals often rely on free choice minerals, while dairy cattle are fed a total mixed ration including a mineral supplement. Interestingly, Schaeffer also reported a large portion of dairy cattle may have been oversupplemented as they observed above normal copper and selenium levels.

Associations between mineral status and disease occurred across both groups, but were most prevalent in beef cattle.

In beef cattle reported to have bovine respiratory disease (BRD), 68% of animals were deficient in copper, selenium or both minerals. The median age of these animals was 8 months, and most of them had been recently transported and co-mingled with other calves.

One thing the authors noticed was some conditions that are usually subclinical in beef cattle, for example parasites, were fatal in animals that were deficient in copper, selenium, or both.

“Now obviously we don’t know the condition score of those animals,” says co-author David Villar on a recent episode of “Have You Herd?”. “I would imagine it was pretty poor to die from internal parasites.”

As stated above, dairy cattle cases had much lower prevalences of trace mineral deficiency. Along with this, they also had lower incidences of correlation between deficiency and disease.

Of the dairy cattle with only one deficiency, the most frequent diagnoses were BRD (23%), Salmonella (14%), scours (16%), and septicemia (6%). Of all dairy cattle, 11% of those with BRD also had a copper or selenium deficiency.

It’s important to remember these are correlations between mineral status and disease, not causation.

Villar highlights what he hopes producers and veterinarians would take away from this work: “The main conclusion I would make is that beef, but not dairy, are still largely deficient in essential microminerals, copper and selenium. We need to check the herd management to see what’s happening.”

These results present an opportunity for producers and veterinarians to build preventative mineral nutrition programs, especially in beef herds where deficiencies are more prevalent. Proactive monitoring and targeted supplementation could reduce disease, mortality and economic loss in cattle herds.

Push-ups Aren’t Just for the Gym (or Cows)

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:59:17 GMT

A routine schedule for pushing up feed to lactating cows has become a hallmark of excellent dairy management. Many farms schedule this task multiple times around the clock, and may even employ robotic feed pushers to ensure cows have continuous access to feed.

But what about the heifers?

Educators from Cornell Cooperative Extension underscore the critical nature of feed push-ups for growing replacements as well. They note it is a practice that can directly impact lifetime herd performance, in terms of both feeding behavior and skeletal development.

“We have emphasized so much, multiple feedings or pushing up feed for our lactating cows,” says Dave Balbian, now-retired regional dairy specialist for Cornell Cooperative Extension of Central New York, on an episode of Cornell’s “ Troubleshooting Herd Health Issues on Your Dairy ” podcast.

“This is an area that really lacks with some of our heifers,” Balbian notes. “The feed is there but they can’t reach it, so it might as well not be there.”

Balbian says early feed training may build lifelong habits that can be damaging to a herd.

“I think some of these slug-feeding habits that we sometimes see in our lactating cows can begin with heifers that are only fed once a day and maybe only pushed up one other time,” he explained. “When the feed is there, they’re hungry, because they haven’t had feed in a long time.”

In another episode of the podcast , Cornell regional dairy and field crops consultant Margaret Quaassdorf says the act of hungry heifers reaching for feed actually can cause lifelong skeletal abnormalities as well.

“They will exert a huge amount of pressure against a curved neck rail or head lock in order to get to that feed,” she says. “A heifer has to splay her front feet, kind of like a giraffe drinking, to get to it.”

Quaassdorf adds: “Against a concrete barrier, this causes compromised bone growth and foot integrity, and poor conformation that will stick with them the rest of their lives. It may even lead to early removal from the herd due to poor feet and legs.”

On a more fundamental level, denying access to feed also interferes with other basic aspects of heifer development.

“We’re trying to develop a rumen and gain pounds. It takes a lot of nutrients to put on that much tissue,” Quaassdorf says. “Inadequate feed push-ups affect the potential growth of heifers and the nutrients needed for their immune systems to function. This is completely preventable with proper facility design and keeping that feed within reach.”

Your Next Read:

The Rising Value of Beef on Dairy: Unlocking Opportunities and Transforming the Industry

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:54:52 GMT

In recent years, the dairy industry has witnessed a remarkable transformation with the integration of beef production. With native beef cattle numbers remaining low and demand for high-quality beef holding strong, there’s growing opportunity and a responsibility to raise these crossbreds with intent.

The Nutritional Foundation for Success
At the heart of this transformation lies the critical focus on nutrition, which significantly impacts the development of calves into valuable beef stock.

Laurence Williams, beef-on-dairy development with Purina Animal Nutrition underscores the importance of early life nutrition playing a pivotal role in ensuring the success of these animals. The first 20 weeks are crucial, with a focus on balancing quality and quantity of diet to develop not just muscularity but also traits such as marbling, which contribute to the premium quality of beef.

“That early investment in nutrition is important,” he says. “That means beginning with the end in mind and using every tool available, from genetics to nutrition to on-farm management, to ensure they reach their full potential at harvest.”

Williams says the shift toward specialized nutritional programs tailored to the genetic composition of crossbred calves has proven successful. The combination of milk replacer and calf starter grain is touted as essential in hitting developmental milestones, ensuring calves have the optimal start.

Economic Viability and the Broadened Supply Chain
This transition has brought about economic prospects for dairy farmers who are integrating beef production into their operations. While historically, dairy bull calves might have been given away or sold at low prices, the increased market demand for quality beef has incentivized farmers to retain ownership longer or engage in partnerships to maximize returns.

Interestingly, many dairies are capitalizing on the potential of retaining calves beyond the initial week of life. While selling calves early offers immediate profit with minimal risk, retaining them longer poses a significant opportunity for higher returns. This strategic choice depends upon evaluating the potential gains weighed against the costs of development and risks associated with extended nurturing and feeding.

“Most of the calves are leaving within the first week of life,” Williams says. “Although, we’re seeing more dairies raise some of these calves, even retain some ownership.”

The 2025 Farm Journal State of the Dairy Industry report hums a similar tune, showcasing nearly three-quarters of operators being involved in at least one beef-on-dairy practice, with breeding and raising being the most prevalent methods. Likewise, National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) reported beef-on-dairy semen sales grew by about 317,000 units in the U.S. in 2024.

Dale Woerner with Texas Tech shared at the Milk Business Conference he believes beef-on-dairy crossbreds have added immense value to the beef supply chain and should be seen as a long-term solution.

“Beef-on-dairy crossbreds have added enough value to the beef supply chain that we should never change what we’re doing,” he says. “We should continue creating these crossbred cattle for the future.”

A Story of Connectivity: From Dairy to Beef
This beef-on-dairy story extends beyond the farm. It weaves through the entire supply chain, underscoring the significant role dairy farming now plays in the beef industry. Engaged speakers emphasized that today’s dairy producers are not only contributing to dairy production but are now integral to the beef supply chain. The need for consistent and quality beef has never been more apparent, and beef from dairy crosses is filling an essential gap in the market.

The introduction of these crossbred animals, often with Angus genetics, into the beef market means delivering not just quantity but high-quality beef cuts that are marbled and tender. Innovations in feeding and genetics have led to a consistent supply of premium beef, creating newfound opportunities for capitalizing on consumer demands for quality protein.

A Promising Future for Beef on Dairy
The future for beef on dairy is bright and dynamic. As the demand for quality beef grows, so does the potential for dairies to tap into this lucrative market. The industry stands at the forefront of a sustainable and profitable production model that aligns with the growing global need for quality protein sources.

The integration of beef and dairy is not just creating financial opportunities but is transforming the agricultural industry at large. By leveraging genetics, nutrition and innovative supply chain solutions, dairy producers are setting a precedent for valuable cross-industry collaboration.

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Learn How AI-Powered Vision Technology is Revolutionizing Dairy Farming

Rust in the Ration: How to Combat Southern Rust’s Impact on Corn Silage

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 14:04:48 GMT

With the warm and wet conditions this season, southern rust is on the rise in Midwest corn crops. It may be time to start considering the impact that could have on corn silage and preparing to adjust rations accordingly. While southern rust is not a direct threat to herd health, it has been shown to lower the nutritional value of silage and can compromise feed quality.

Southern rust, a fast-developing fungal disease caused by Puccinia polysora, does not itself produce toxins, but it weakens the plant and provides the opportunity for other diseases to move in. These opportunists include various Furasium species, which produce mycotoxins (fumonisin and deoxynivalenol) that can be harmful in feed.

Southern Rust and Corn Silage Quality

Southern rust is known to impact corn silage quality. A study from the University of Florida showed increasing rust infestation resulted in increased dry matter and fiber fractions, but that dry matter digestibility decreased by 13%. Further, high rust silages had lower neutral detergent fiber digestibilities than medium and no rust silages. Southern rust also affected the concentrations of lactate and volatile fatty acids, causing both to decrease with increasing infestation. These results indicate decreased nutritive value.

The observed increased dry matter also reduced silo packing effectiveness. If moisture levels are too low at harvest, it is difficult to achieve adequate packing, which leads to poor fermentation and an increased risk of mold growth.

Because southern rust coverage reduces the photosynthetic area of the leaf, grain fill is often hindered, leading to a lower energy and protein content in the silage.

Southern Rust Silage Management

There are a handful of strategies producers can apply to counteract the effects of southern rust:

Adjust harvest time based on moisture content. Southern rust can cause corn to dry down faster than normal. Monitor moisture levels closely to ensure the proper fermentation of silage.
Consider a silage inoculant. Inoculants improve fermentation, and the rapid pH drop can inhibit mold and yeast growth.
Ensure good packing and storage. Pack silage well to limit oxygen exposure and prevent mold growth. Cover bunkers immediately and weigh down coverings thoroughly.

Feeding Southern Rust Silage

To counter the nutritional challenges of feeding southern rust-infected corn silage, dietary supplementation may be necessary.

Prior to inclusion, test all potentially infected silage for mycotoxins. This will allow you to determine the safety of the feed and avoid potential health issues. If mycotoxins are high, the incorporation of a mycotoxin binding agent into the ration will help reduce toxin absorption in the animal’s digestive tract. Additionally, supplementation with antioxidants, such as vitamin E and selenium, could help animals by countering oxidative stress caused by mycotoxins and supporting immune function.

If grain fill was affected and starch levels are low, you may need to incorporate an additional energy course to compensate. Further, poor grain fill could reduce the already low protein content of corn silage, and protein supplementation may be required.

When incorporating infected silage, ensure it is thoroughly mixed into the TMR to dilute potential ‘hot spots’. Inclusion levels of contaminated silage in the feed may need to be limited or removed entirely for sensitive animals, including lactating or breeding animals. Livestock should be monitored closely for symptoms of mycotoxin toxicity, such as reduced intake, weight loss, digestive issues or reproductive challenges. Be prepared to respond if issues arise.

When feeding corn silage infected with southern rust, caution is essential to protect livestock health and performance. The thoughtful use of compromised silage can help minimize risk while maintaining efficiency and animal well-being.

Your next read: Southern Rust Set To Take Big Bite Out Of Midwest Corn Crop?

The Next Frontier of Cow Nutrition is Encapsulated

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Consumption trends are driving the milk industry like never before. Weight loss drugs, body building supplements, diets for the elderly and the need to maintain muscle mass in an aging population. A proactively engaged consumer (Prosumer) is demanding a diversity of food options to match environmental concerns, animal welfare, ethnic diets, etc. The influence of social media on consumption is pervasive on the food shelves of supermarkets and convenience stores. Visiting a grocery store in a large city is more like a safari — a mixture of entertainment and storytelling — than about the actual nutritional needs of the consumer.

Milk processors have struggled to keep up, and the milk shelves have never been fuller of a more diverse range of options. The range of cheese, yogurt and ice-cream labels would challenge the average recent graduate of the food science programs of our best Universities.

What can dairy producers do?

1. Genetics: The recent and dramatic advances in reported milk components in the U.S. dairy herd has been nothing short of extraordinary. Cobank reports the 2024 U.S. butterfat levels reached 4.23%, and proteins are now at 3.29% — a record by historical standards. This has been driven by better genetic selection, particularly in Holsteins, and feeding and managing those genetics for optimal performance. It is reasonable to expect further improvements in bovine genetics will continue these trends over the coming decade.

2. Feeding for milk components: Traditionally, nutritionists have used least-cost feed formulation software in order to achieve the most cost-effective milk production. Often decisions were taken based on single ingredient digestibility and not on how a diet affects rumen fermentation, ruminal biomass or the absorption of those nutrients in the lower gastrointestinal tract. The use of bypass proteins and anionic salts have shown what is possible when ingredients can avoid degradation by rumen micro-organisms. The use of yeast cultures is another approach, enhancing rumen fermentation of fibers and acidity (pH) to produce more microbial protein, and eventually increased milk components.

3. Precision feeding for milk components: The last 10 years have seen an explosion in the use of encapsulated ingredients to bypass the rumen, allowing this concept to go from niche to mainstream. The most obvious example of this has been Adisseo’s Smartamine & Meta-Smart, and protected forms of methionine are now said to be used in over 70% of the top-producing dairy herds. As one New York dairy farmer said to me, “When my nutritionist forgets to put it in the feed, I see the changes in the milk tanks within days.”

Globally, another dozen companies have entered the fray. The new leaders are all looking beyond methionine to a range of nutrients that both increase milk production, milk components and intestinal health. Balchem (Lysine, Choline), Jefo (B-Vitamins, essential oils), ADM, Kemin, Alltech (nonprotein nitrogen) are just some of those leading in this field. The excitement of using microencapsulation is that it allows these feed ingredients to bypass rumen degradation, effectively turning the ruminant into a monogastric. In other words, feeding a cow as though she was a pig.

A demonstration of the scale of excitement around how encapsulation is seen as a game changer is that Jefo recently opened a new $100 million factory in Canada just to meet the needs of their North American customers — focused on delivering combinations of ingredients (Matrix technology) to improve cow health, productivity and fertility.

What’s next?

Artificial intelligence will most likely increase the pace of change in our cow’s nutrition. Understanding how to influence the ruminal microbiota through nutrition, more precisely and in real time, will move science forward. Traditional rumen models such as the artificial rumen simulation systems (e.g. Rusitec), predictive models such as the Cornell CPCPS Model and INRA Systali (PDI) in Europe, are being supplanted by AI-based systems. Equally using sensors in the rumen (digital boluses, Smaxtec) and in-line and individual cow milk sensors (Labby, SomaDetect), will give farmers the ability to see the benefits of delivering nutrition in real time. Feeding precisely means in the right place, in the right form, at the right time. Already Canadian farmers have reported dramatic benefits of encapsulating all of the micronutrients fed to their cows in a single delivery, on milk components, somatic cells and fertility. This will undoubtedly be the future: reimagining all aspects of feeding cows.

When it comes to nutrition, it’s like Dorothy said in the Wizard of Oz: “We aren’t in Kansas, anymore!”

It's Time to Go Back to the Feedbunk Managment Basics

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 22:46:08 GMT

How feed is managed at the bunk can have a bigger impact on cow health and production than farmers might think. Seemingly small details such as timing, consistency or mix quality can make a significant difference in how cows eat and perform.

Getting feedbunk management right starts with going back to the basics. Dr. Kirby Krogstad, assistant professor of dairy nutrition at Ohio State University, stresses that clear routines, attention to detail and teamwork at the feedbunk are the foundation for keeping cows healthy and productive.

During a recent conversation on the “Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast,” he shared practical tips and strategies that dairies of all sizes can use to improve herd performance.

“One of the fundamentals that constantly needs revisiting is how to manage a bunk properly,” Krogstad says. “If you feed cows, do you have a written protocol for how you want your cows fed and how often you want feed pushed up? If you don’t have that, you need to start there.”

Make a Plan and Stick to It

For many dairies, labor availability and time management are ongoing challenges. Krogstad notes that feed push-ups don’t always happen as often as they should, and feeding times can vary. That can leave cows without feed for an extended period of time, which can reduce intake, upset the rumen and lead to dips in milk production.

A written feeding protocol is the first step. It should outline exactly how and when feed is delivered, how often push-ups occur and what to do if feed runs low. Once everyone knows the plan, it becomes easier to train employees, maintain consistency and monitor compliance.

“You have to implement a program with yourself, your staff, your family — whoever does the feeding — in mind. Then you can start using additional in a more effective way,” Krogstad says.

Simple Tools Can Make a Big Difference

Technology doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Krogstad recommends using time-lapse cameras as a simple way to track feed delivery and cow behavior.

“Hang cameras to see when feed is being pushed up, when cows are coming to the bunk and to monitor out-of-feed events,” he says. “Sometimes what we think is happening is not actually happening. A camera can show you the gaps and help you fix them.”

These cameras provide an objective view of daily routines and can highlight inconsistencies between written protocols and what actually happens. By spotting problems early, producers can adjust routines before they affect production or cow health.

Check Your Mix

Even if feed is delivered on time, the mix itself has to be consistent from one end of the bunk to the other. Krogstad suggests using a Penn State particle separator to check feed uniformity. Uneven mixing can result from operator error, improper ingredient order or worn mixer components such as kicker plates, knives or restrictors.

“If the mix isn’t consistent, you might have an operator error or equipment problem,” Krogstad explains. “Fixing these issues ensures every cow gets the same quality feed, which keeps intake steady and production predictable.”

Feed Is Too Valuable to Waste

Krogstad also emphasizes the importance of paying close attention to bunk management, especially given the high cost of feed and the challenges of maintaining reliable labor on many dairies.

“Nutrition is a huge cost,” he says. “It puzzles me why people don’t pay more attention to this when it’s the biggest input you have on your dairy.”

Feed waste can happen in many ways. Uneven mixing in the TMR can leave some cows with too little of key nutrients and others with more than they need, which can lead to portions of feed being pushed aside or left uneaten. Gaps in feed delivery or infrequent push-ups can also cause cows to compete for feed or wait for fresh feed, leaving bunk space empty or spoiled feed behind. Even small amounts of leftover feed add up to significant costs over a year.

By paying closer attention to how feed is delivered, checking the mix for consistency and keeping push-ups regular, producers can reduce waste.

“A little extra effort each day at the bunk can save a lot of feed and prevent drops in production,” Krogstad notes. “It’s one of those areas where attention to detail really shows up on the bottom line.”

Focus on Consistency

Krogstad stresses that a reliable routine is the key to an efficient feedbunk. That means consistent feeding times, consistent push-ups, consistent mix quality and consistent adherence to protocols. When cows can rely on a steady routine and uniform feed, their intake stabilizes, rumen health improves, and milk production becomes more predictable.

By focusing on these fundamentals, producers can improve cow performance, reduce feed waste and run a more efficient operation. Small, consistent improvements in the bunk add up to better herd health, higher milk production and stronger profits for the farm.

Don't Settle for Mediocre: How to Make Moderate Quality Colostrum Work

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 16:07:47 GMT

As all calf feeders know, not all colostrum is created equal. Some fresh colostrum is rich in immunoglobulin G (IgG) and ideal for newborn calves. Some is poor in quality and unsuitable for feeding. And then there’s the “Goldilocks” kind that falls somewhere in the middle. It’s not too bad but not quite good enough either.

This in-between category often leaves producers in a bind. Do you feed it as-is and risk inadequate passive transfer? Do you discard it and rely on frozen reserves or replacer? Or is there a better way to make moderate-quality colostrum just right?

A recent study, conducted by the University of Minnesota and published in the Journal of Dairy Science, explored a practical solution: enriching moderate-quality maternal colostrum with commercial colostrum replacer (CR) powder. Specifically, researchers asked whether the powder could be added directly to the colostrum without being reconstituted in water first and still deliver strong immunity to calves, without negative effects on health or digestion. Their findings suggest a straightforward way to make colostrum feedings more consistent when top-quality colostrum isn’t on hand.

A Practical and Safe Option
The researchers found that adding dry CR powder straight into moderate-quality maternal colostrum is an effective way to enhance its immune benefits. Calves fed the enriched colostrum reached blood IgG levels that were statistically similar to those fed naturally high-quality colostrum. And importantly, these calves did not experience digestive upset, poor appetite or abnormal behavior.

The researchers compared this method to one where the CR was first mixed with water and then added to the colostrum. While both methods improved IgG levels over unenriched colostrum, the direct-mix approach performed slightly better. In addition, it avoided the added liquid volume, which can make feeding more difficult, especially when tubing calves.

One concern with enriching colostrum is how the added ingredients might change the colostrum’s physical properties, particularly its concentration. Osmolality, or the concentration of dissolved particles in colostrum, can affect how easily a calf digests its first feeding. In this study, however, adding dry colostrum replacer powder directly into maternal colostrum did not appear to cause any digestive issues or affect calf performance.

Not All Powders Are Created Equal
While the results are encouraging, the researchers say it is important to note this study evaluated only one commercial colostrum replacer product. Replacers can vary widely in their ingredients, solubility and osmolality. Thus, a method that proves effective with one product might not produce the same results with another. For that reason, any adjustments to colostrum feeding protocols should be made in consultation with a veterinarian or nutritionist.

Still, this method offers flexibility. On days when your colostrum supply is good but not great, enrichment with dry powder might be a simple and cost-effective way to ensure every calf gets the strong start it needs.

The Many Merits of Millet

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 19:00:00 GMT

If you’re looking for a dairy forage that’s highly versatile, reliable, and digestible, pearl millet might be the crop for you.

Bryan Decker, U.S. Agronomy and Nutrition Lead for La Crosse Seed, La Crosse, Wis. said pearl millet planting has been on the upswing in the past 5 years for dairy producers nationwide.

“In some cases, Mother Nature has forced our hand and required us to adopt some alternative forage production strategies,” shared Decker. “Through that process, we’ve learned how to manage those new forages appropriately.”

Decker believes a partial allocation (at least 15%) of forage acres to summer annuals like pearl millet is a wise risk-management strategy that can help keep bunkers full, even in unpredictable weather years. Millet, in particular, has the ability to withstand a wide range of weather and soil conditions.

“It’s a native plant of Ethiopia, so that tells you it’s a hardy crop that can survive some tough circumstances, including drought,” noted Decker. “On average, it requires about 30% less moisture through the growing season compared to corn.”

Pearly millet does well in sandy, lower-quality soils, but Decker cautioned good drainage is essential. It seeds a lot like alfalfa, although the seed size is slightly larger. Decker recommends drilling in narrow (7.5-15 inches) rows into a fairly firm seedbed, at a seeding rate of no more than 12-15 pounds per acre, and a planting depth no greater than a half inch.

A soil temperature of 60-65°F and rising is necessary before seeding, which means planting dates can be highly variable depending on weather conditions and geography. “One of the advantages of pearl millet is that this is a plant that loves heat,” stated Decker. “So, it can handle summer virtually anywhere in the U.S.”

In most locations, producers can expect to take at least 2 cuttings, and often a third if enough growing degree units accumulate in a given season. Harvest typically is advised at the flag-leaf stage, or about 40 inches of growth. It is highly frost sensitive, so the first killing frost will abruptly end its growing season.

Compared to other forage sources, another tremendous advantage is its processing flexibility. Most producers ensile pearl millet in either bunkers, piles, bags, or wet-wrapped bales. But Decker said its high leaf-to-stem ratio make it a practical crop to cut and bale for dry hay. It also can be grazed without the worry of prussic acid toxicity.

As a feed source, well-managed pearl millet can be a dairy nutritionist’s dream. Dwarf and BMR varieties of pearl millet are available. The dwarf characteristic lends to tight plant nodes and thus extreme leafiness, and the BMR aspect adds to digestibility.

“Nutritionists love it because pearl millet typically has a higher NDFD percentage compared to BMR sorghum/sudangrass,” noted Decker. “It is also lower in lignin and starch, and its fine stems mean cows tend to gobble it up and consume the whole plant.”

Pearl millet might lag slightly behind sorghum/sudangrass in terms of total-season tonnage. “A typical year for sorghum/sudangrass might produce about 5-7 tons of dry matter per acre, while pearl millet would be closer to 4-6 tons per acre,” advised Decker.
In terms of cost, both crops would be in the same ballpark, depending on yield, growing conditions, but Decker said pearl millet will almost always win that dual in terms of digestibility and relative feed quality.

Incorporating pearl millet into the crop rotation can also improve a dairy’s land-use intensity, as it can follow harvest of a winter forage like, wheat, rye, or triticale; or a spring forage like oats or barley. This also creates a home for a late-spring manure application in between. Millet also can be left intact in the fall as a cover crop/green manure.

Pests and weed pressure tend not to be major challenges with pearl millet, mostly because its quick growth allows most of those problems to be eliminated by taking a cutting. It also requires no specialized equipment. “If you can raise alfalfa, you have everything you need to raise millet,” advised Decker.

Given fluctuating grain costs and the likelihood of continued climate challenges, Decker predicts more dairy producers will embrace pearl millet as part of an intentional forage diversification strategy. “It is a fairly forgiving crop that checks a lot of boxes to make excellent dairy feed,” he said.

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There are Many “Wheys” to Feed Dairy Cows

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 19:00:00 GMT

It’s the ultimate recycling story -- one that could boost a dairy farm’s sustainability and possibly even carbon credits, while maintaining excellent nutrition and production. Feeding liquid whey could be the way to bundle these multiple benefits in one package.

Whey is a co-product from cheese and yogurt production, and it’s often readily available in dairy-concentrated regions where dairy manufacturing is centered among the cows. It was once considered a total waste product, until value-added processing techniques converted and stabilized it to capture its nutritive merits in more portable and storable forms.

Now, dried whey powder, permeate, and whey protein concentrate are widely used in everything from pet food to calf milk replacer and baked goods to bodybuilding supplements.

But due to logistics and storage challenges, an estimated 40-50% of whey produced in the U.S. is still discarded – often discharged as sewage. In addition to wasting nutrients, this practice can create a high biological oxygen demand that must be managed carefully to prevent water pollution.

Enter the humble dairy cow. She produced the original foundations of whey, and she can consume and recycle the elements that remain. In terms of dairy nutrition, whey is a highly concentrated energy source because it is made up of 60-70% lactose. It also provides a moderate amount of protein (6-8%) and is rich in calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and potassium.

Liquid whey typically contains about 15-30% solids, which means it adds a good deal of moisture to a TMR. It’s also a rumen-friendly feedstuff in that its lactose is readily fermented and can enhance microbial protein synthesis – as long as it is balanced in the TMR to prevent acidosis. Its sodium and potassium levels also need to be monitored to maintain DCAD balance.

Dairy nutritionist Paul Dyk, MSc, PAS, owner of Forward Dairy Consulting, LLC, Fond du Lac, Wis. and partner with GPS Dairy Consultants, works with several clients who successfully feed fresh whey. “It’s an excellent and economic source of sugar that can replace higher-cost ingredients,” said Dyk.

He shared the two largest challenges with feeding whey are constancy and storage. “There can be a lot of variability in whey, so you definitely want a supply that comes from a single cheese type to ensure a relatively consistent product batch-to-batch,” Dyk advised.

Sweet whey, with a pH of about 6.0-6.7, is a co-product of hard cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, and mozzarella that are produced with a rennet-based coagulant. Acid whey is the result of lactic-acid-based coagulation of products like Greek yogurt, cottage, and ricotta cheese, with a substantially lower pH ranging from about 4.0-5.1, plus higher mineral content.While straight whey is usually not shipped directly to the dairy, whey permeate (less protein) and delactosed permeate (DLP -- some lactose removed) are common liquid products being delivered to dairies.

Dyk said the perishable nature of whey is the other factor that can make it difficult to feed. “A dairy feeding liquid whey will need bulk-tank storage agitate it, and at least 7 days’ worth of storage capacity,” he advised. “The source plant will generally want to move it out as quickly as possible, so you’ve got to be equipped to manage it on your end.Turning the whey over weekly while agitating can keep the product fresh.”

He has seen dairies successfully embrace fresh-whey feeding, generally at about 1-4% total dry matter in the TMR. “Depending on the circumstances, a cheese plant might even be willing to give it away, but there is the investment in trucking and storage that have to be factored in,” Dyk stated.

For lactating rations, dried whey is an alternative that can still make sense in the commodity mix, with advantages in storage, shelf life, and precision in the ration.

Researchers are also looking at alternative strategies to maximize the value of whey. Among the innovative projects in progress are utilizing whey as a fermentation and moisture substrate for silage; using new methods like ion exchange to process and purify condensed whey products; and extracting the water from weigh for drinking and wash water on dairies as an antidote to water scarcity.

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All The Details: Inside John Deere’s New F8 and F9 Forage Harvesters

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 18:20:35 GMT

John Deere is rolling out two new forage harvesters for North American dairy producers and custom harvesting operations.

The brand new F8 and F9 Series feature three factory-installed operator cab options, a technology stack that will one day enable autonomous operation, and enhanced feed quality via an integrated inoculant dosing system.

How are F8 and F9 different?
The F8 Series (425PS to 645PS) is a narrow base model that takes the place of Deere’s 8000 Series forage harvester, while the F9 Series (700PS to 1020PS) replaces the 9000 Series. Within the F9 Series is the F9 1000, which is Deere’s largest forage harvest machine to date.

(Editor’s Note: “PS” stands for Pferdestärke, which is the German term for horsepower. PS to horsepower is not an apples-to-apples equal ratio. The F9 1000, for example, features 1020PS which equates to 1,006HP, according to the manufacturer.)

The F9 is available in two engine options:

John Deere 18X (no DEF required)
Liebherr V12 24L

It has five horsepower options, while the F8 comes with the JD14X engine and can be configured across six horsepower options.

The manufacturer last rolled out completely new forage harvesters in 2019.

How much will each new model cost?

The feed rolls on John Deere’s F8 and F9 forage harvesters have integrated metal detection to keep unwanted material out of your feed.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

John Deere is not sharing its pricing just yet, but the two new models are built at its Zweibrucken, Germany, factory. John Deere dealers will begin taking orders for the aggressively styled, technology-packed harvesters this fall, with final delivery in time for the 2026 forage harvesting season.

Deere representatives declined comment on what effect, if any, the still-developing U.S.and E.U. tariff situation could have on its launch plans.

Ahead of the launch, Farm Journal went to Madison, Wisc., to kick the tires and learn all about the new machines. The F8 and F9 harvesters we viewed and climbed into were the first finished production units off the factory line. Deere says several units will be field tested with U.S. customers ahead of the full fall launch.

“We’re really excited about the new cab and the technology we’ve added to these machines like central tire inflation, ground speed automation and the new kernel processing units,” says Bergen Nelson, go-to-market manager, combines and forage harvesters.

Here’s some of what we learned about the new forage harvesters:

(Matthew J. Grassi)

Cab Comforts: The same three operator cab options offered with Deere’s X and S Series combines — Select, Premium and Ultimate — are available on the F8 and F9 Series. A smoothly swiveling captain’s chair, as well as an all-new corner post display that shows real-time machine data, are among the additions. Operators who spend long hours in the cab will also appreciate integrated entertainment like SXM Radio and an optional mini fridge.

(Matthew J. Grassi )

Foundational Deere Tech Stack: Each new forage harvester in the series includes Deere’s baseline precision tech enablement stack — which consists of its G5 display, Starfire 7500 receiver and JDLink modem.

Central Tire Inflation System: A completely new feature (top left inset photo) within the G5 display allows the operator to adjust front tire PSI up or down from the cab.

John Deere Inoculant Dosing System 2.0

(Matthew J. Grassi)

Inoculant Dosing System 2.0: New on both the F8 and F9, a high-volume 85 gallon inoculant tank and integrated pump allow the user to accurately adjust silage inoculant dosage rates from the G5 display in the cab. The system is easy to pump and prime as well with the touch of a button located at the rear of the machine.

Ground Speed Automation: This cruise control-like option reads RPMs and throttles the harvester up or down based on crop conditions. For example, harvesting corn at higher moisture levels will increase power output, so the machine will automatically slow down to ensure it doesn’t plug up or do a sub-optimal job harvesting. This feature comes standard on all base models for both series and does not require a yearly subscription unlock or per-acre fee.

Pro Touch Harvest: Another new feature within the G5 display allows the operator to shift the machine from road transport mode to harvest mode in a single click. It can also be used to quickly engage AutoTrac and ground speed automation once the operator arrives at the edge of field.

This all-new XStream 305 Kernel Processing (KP) unit is built by Scherer in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

New Kernal Processing (KP) Units: The new harvesters feature two completely redesigned KP units, the Ultimate 250 (also made in Germany) and the Scherer XStream 305, which is made in Sioux Falls, S.D. An integrated winch and internal rail mounting system makes switching the machine from corn forage to hay forage in the field quick and simple. The number signifies each KP unit’s roll diameter width in millimeters.

“Both KPs will go in both machines and have four different roll options depending on how aggressive the dairyman wants their end feed quality to be,” says Shane Campbell, product marketing manager, forage harvesters.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

Integrated Harvest Lab 3000: This on-demand constituent sensing module pulls over 4,000 samples per second with +/- 2% accuracy, and John Deere says it can save dairy operations time and money versus collecting and sending samples to a lab. The sensor tech (available as an add-on option) enables accurate measurement and documentation of dry matter, starch, protein, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber for both harvested forage and manure. The data can be stored, organized and shared via Deere’s Operations Center. Within Operations Center, users can take geo-referenced data and build out spatial starch content — as well as moisture and protein — maps for hybrid selection and fertility management. Because if you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.

Active Fill Control 3.0: Using sensors and cameras on the grain spout, this tech feature automatically detects the trailer or grain cart next to the forage harvester and begins filling it with a preselected fill strategy. This reduces the number of times an operator has to adjust the spout manually and also lessens fatigue and neck strain, according to Deere.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

New Operating Modes: Several of the models within the F9 Series offer what Deere is calling its “Engine Power Plus” feature — which gives a sizeable horsepower boost when the machines senses it needs a little extra chopping power to the harvesting head. There is also an ECO mode that can be toggled on when the machines don’t need the extra torque.

Ease-Of-Access: Both models have side and rear panels that easily open to grant full access to the inner workings of the machines, making the new forage harvesters much easier to service and maintain without a lift or other heavy specialized equipment. The machine is setup so techs and mechanically-minded farmers will not have to climb underneath it to perform daily maintenance.

“At the end of the day, we know it’s all about the cow, and these machines will put out quality feed,” Nelson says. “We’ll have these out at the farm shows this summer, including Farm Progress Show, World Ag Expo, World Dairy Expo and the U.S. Custom Harvesters Convention.”

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Kefir for Calves is on the Menu

Mon, 19 May 2025 18:34:33 GMT

You might see it in the grocery dairy case, and you might even drink it yourself.

Kefir is a “drinkable yogurt,” that boasts the benefits of improved digestive health, thanks to its high probiotic content and positive gut microbiome influence, along with protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Now, calves can get on the kefir kick, too, as evidenced by research performed at the W.H. Miner Institute in Chazy, NY. Research scientist Sarah Morrison discussed the projects on a recent episode of The Dairy Podcast Show.

Morrison said she and her colleagues became interested in kefir for calves when they learned that some farms are already regularly creating and feeding it. From a practical standpoint, it is a low-cost, non-antibiotic approach to potentially supporting calf health and performance.

According to Morrison, kefir actually has ties to the realm of biofilms. Calf raisers tend to think of biofilms as bad things. But, Morrison explained, “bacteria in the wild create biofilms as their protective mechanisms.”

Those may be pathogenic bacteria, like the ones that create biofilm on calf-feeding equipment. But they also may be beneficial bacteria that can protect intestinal integrity and provide protection to calves against harmful bacteria.

Kefir is produced by starting with kefir “grains,” which are a matrix of bacteria and yeast held together by a biofilm called kefiran. These grains function as a starter culture when added to fresh milk. After the milk has fermented to the desired consistency and pH, the grains are removed and, with proper refrigeration storage, can be used indefinitely to make future batches of kefir.

“The fermented kefir contains lactic acid bacteria, yeast, and fungi that are all really good for the gastrointestinal tract,” Morrison explained. “These bacteria, yeast and fungi are associated with the intestinal lining, and that’s what competitively inhibits those negative bacteria that might be present.”

Morrison and her colleagues worked with two commercial dairies and the Miner Institute herd to evaluate the effects of kefir on calves. They fed a supplement of ¼ cup of kefir per calf per day for the first 21 days of life, and compared the performance of those calves to that of non-supplemented calves.

“We didn’t see any significant differences in health, but the interesting things that we did see was that as they were weaned, the kefir group consumed a total of about 6 pounds of starter per head more through the preweaning period than the control group,” said Morrison. “We were surprised to see that carryover from something that had ended three weeks earlier.”

In a follow-up study, they added rumen fluid sampling and intestinal permeability testing. Morrison said they saw no improvement in integrity of the GI tract, but the starter grain intake difference happened again. They are still analyzing the data from that group of calves to determine if that increased grain consumption led to higher weight gain before or after weaning.

While there are many commercial supplements that promote similar, positive effects on the gastrointestinal tract, Morrison said for some farms, homegrown kefir could fit neatly into their calf management and health program. “It depends on what you’re willing to manage and what works for you and your operation,” she stated. “There are many ways to get to the same result.”

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Added Powder = Added Growth for Preweaned Calves

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 21:12:50 GMT

In the quest to boost nutrition – and subsequent lifetime performance – of preweaned dairy calves, one strategy is to add milk replacer powder to enhance pasteurized whole milk.

Previous efforts to employ this strategy have shown improved preweaning average daily gain (ADG), but raised concerns about suppressing starter grain intake both pre- and post-weaning. Also of concern is the possibility of raising total solids to osmolality levels that cause digestive imbalances and diarrhea.

A team of researchers at the University of Illinois recently conducted a study to discern the best amount milk replacer to use when fortifying whole milk, and the ideal timeframe in which to do so. A total of 45 calves were fed a liquid ration for 59 days in three different feeding groups:

No supplement – 5 liters of pasteurized whole milk with no added milk replacer powder from days 3-56, followed by a step-down to 2.5 liters per day for days 57-59. Total solids: 31.9 kg.
Short-term supplement – 5 liters of pasteurized whole milk for days 3-9; an added supplement of milk replacer powder for days 10-41; and removal of the supplement from days 42-56; and a step-down to 2.5 liters per day, also with no supplement, for days 57-59. Total solids: 42.3 kg.
Long-term supplement -5 liters of pasteurized whole milk for days 3-9; an added supplement of milk replacer powder for days 10-56; and a step-down to 2.5 liters per day that included the added milk replacer powder. Total solids: 47.7 kg.

All calves were weaned on day 60 and the study concluded on day 75. When milk replacer was added, the amount was based off of previous research indicating that 18% solids was the “safe” upper bound without issues related to osmolality. So, milk replacer solids were added to the pasteurized whole milk, to achieve a total solids limit of 18%.

Throughout the study, calves had free-choice access to a starter total mixed ration formulated using a base of corn, barley, soybean meal, and fish meal, combined with 8% chopped second-cutting alfalfa hay. The diet was formulated for calves with a birthweight of 60-70 kg. to achieve a target ADG of 0.75 kg. per day.

The results, published in the Journal of Dairy Science , showed:

Starter feed intake was significantly higher in the preweaning period for calves that received no supplement, but did not vary significantly between the three groups in the postweaning period.
Calves that received the long-term supplement showed significantly lower starter intake at weaning time, but only for the first week, from days 56-62.
Total dry matter intake throughout the milk-feeding period was lowest in the non-supplemented group.
Calves with no supplement had the lowest weaning bodyweight, overall hip height, and final bodyweight.
The long-term supplemented calves had fewer health-related issues throughout the study.

The researchers concluded that while supplementing with milk replacer until the end of the milk-feeding period resulted in lower starter intake around the time of weaning, overall it was the most beneficial approach in terms of calf growth and health. Removing milk replacer supplementation midway through the preweaning phase, or not using it at all, decreased the ADG of calves.

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How to Create a Winning Winter Feeding Playbook

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Cold, snow, wind, and more – winter in the northern climates brings extra challenges for dairies and their animals.

“We think a lot about heat stress, but cold stress also is a factor on many dairies,” stated Dr. Heather Dann, President of the W.H. Miner Institute, Chazy, N.Y. on a recent episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt podcast.

Fortunately, lactating cows produce a lot of heat. Dr. Bill Weiss, Professor Emeritus at Ohio State University, said on a recent episode of the Dairy Podcast Show, that a cow producing 100 pounds of milk per day will generate 40 mcal of excess heat per day. How much is 40 mcal in relatable terms? About the same amount of heat energy as 1.5 gallons of gasoline.

“In the summer, that’s a problem, because that excess heat must be dissipated,” said Weiss. “But in cold conditions, it can help keep cows warm.” In fact, he said the lower critical temperature – at which their body needs to make adjustments to maintain core body temperature – may be as low as -20°F in good shelter.

But while the rumen may act as a terrific furnace for lactating cows, that’s not the case for dry cows and young stock. Weiss said their lower critical temperature is more likely in the neighborhood of 10-20°F. Accommodations that should be made for them include:

Housing and shelter – Preweaned calves need deeper bedding and the ability to nest to stay warm. Older heifers and dry cows, too, can endure winter conditions more successfully with better shelter. “There’s a lot of cost to poor facilities,” declared Weiss. And even though lactating cows in free stalls are less susceptible to cold, Dann noted the importance of maintaining and utilizing curtained sidewalls to better shelter cows in harsh conditions and protect the function of equipment like waterers.
Body condition monitoring – Fat is an excellent insulator, and Weiss cautioned against heifers and dry cows losing condition through the winter. “We know losing body condition in the dry period definitely puts cows at risk for metabolic problems,” he said. “For heifers and dry cows, you might have to improve forage quality and reduce fiber a little bit to get the energy they need to stay warm. But as soon as it turns warm, we’ve got to lower energy intake to keep body condition steady.
Increased nutrients – Lactating cows often naturally consume more dry matter in cold conditions. Dann said calf nutrition needs can be accommodated by increasing feeding frequency or adjusting the type and/or quantity of milk replacer. For dry cows, Weiss advised their energy requirements will typically increase by 10-20%, requiring a bump of 1-2 mcal net energy/head/day. “The source of the nutrients, as long as it’s digestible, doesn’t matter that much,” he stated. “You’re not going to make those dry cows fatter or produce a bigger calf. It’s just going into metabolic cycles to produce heat.”

Additionally, Dann cautioned that one of the dangers of extremely cold weather is frozen silage. If big chunks find their way to the lactating ration, sorting and TMR inconsistency can result. She advised defacing silo faces 6 inches or more at feed-out to prevent frozen chunks, and managing plastic covers on silo faces to prevent snow melt that creates frozen patches.

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How Dairy Producers are Boosting Profitability

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 14:00:00 GMT

In the ever-competitive world of agriculture, dairy producers are continuously exploring new avenues to ensure the sustainability and growth of their operations. In the face of fluctuating market dynamics and economic pressures, innovative profitability strategies have become crucial, particularly in the dairy industry.

Alternative Profit Strategies
With the spotlight on profitability, many dairy producers have turned their attention to alternative profit sources. This shift has been especially significant during times when milk prices are less than favorable. Robin Schmahl from AgMarket.Net highlights the beef-on-dairy strategy as a pivotal approach to increasing income. By integrating beef genetics into dairy herds, many producers have successfully split their breeding practices between sexed semen and beef, leading to substantial income boosts over recent years.

Understanding Market Dynamics
Market dynamics play a critical role in shaping milk production. According to Phil Plourd, head of market intelligence at Ever.Ag Insights, the unfavorable economic conditions have historically squeezed milk production. Despite this, he remains optimistic about the upcoming 12 months, suggesting they present the best profit potential for dairy producers in recent times. His observation that “Historically, more money generally means more milk,” underlines the intricate relationship between economic conditions and milk yield.

Challenges with Dairy Replacement Heifers
The adoption of beef-on-dairy practices has, however, led to a decrease in the availability of dairy replacement animals. This scarcity has driven up prices, presenting a challenge for producers, especially those planning for expansion. Larger operations are now strategizing ways to secure replacements either through internal growth or external purchases well in advance.

“I don’t think they’re going to wake up three days before they open the new dairy and say, ‘Oh, wait, I need heifers,’” Plourd says.

Adapting to Market Signals
While there is potential market growth with higher milk prices, current dairy heifer inventory doesn’t entirely align with this trend. However, Schmahl points out that the increased milk prices offer producers more flexibility, allowing them to invest in replacements or retain older cows to maximize their output.

Risk Management in a Volatile Market
Efficient risk management strategies are crucial to navigating the ups and downs of the market. Schmahl emphasizes the importance of engaging in risk management without capping potential gains. He recommends option strategies or revenue protection, advising producers to remain flexible and informed as they plan for the future.

“You don’t want to limit your upside,” Schmahl insists, while cautioning producers about using futures, encouraging a balance between protection and opportunity.

As the dairy industry continues its evolution, staying informed and adaptable is essential for producers looking to capitalize on emerging trends. By employing innovative strategies and maintaining a sharp focus on market signals, dairy producers can navigate economic challenges to secure and enhance their profitability.

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Why Do Cows Take a Production Hit on Dried Distillers Grains with Solubles?

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 20:26:55 GMT

Dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) are the most common co-product derived from ethanol production. The fraction of corn remaining after ethanol production is high in protein and can serve as an economical substitute for soybean meal in lactating dairy cow rations.

However, it has been widely observed by dairy producers and nutritionists that reduced production responses – in terms of milk yield, components, or both -- are almost a given when soybean meal is swapped out for DDGS.

Ohio State University graduate student Kirsten Clark, under the supervision of Dr. Chanee Lee, conducted a research study to better understand and potentially head off the seemingly inevitable production hit that cows take when consuming DDGS as a protein source.

Clark and her team speculated the reason for the production change was due to the high sulfur (S) content in DDGS, due to either toxicity or a shift in dietary cation-anion difference in the ration. Another potential culprit: high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in DDGS compared to soybean meal.

To test their theories, they enrolled 60 lactating cows in the study, which was recently published in the Journal of Dairy Science. Cows were segregated into one of 5 TMR feeding groups:

Soybean meal (SBM) – A relatively traditional ration with soybean meal as the main protein source, and 178 mEq/kg DM of DCAD.
DDGS (DG) – A modification of the SBM diet with DDGS added at 30% (DM basis) by replacing mainly soybean meal, soy hulls, and supplemental fat, with a DCAD value of 42 mEq/kg DM.
Soybean meal plus sulfur (SBM+S) – The standard SBM diet, modified with an additional dose of dietary sulfur in the form of sodium bisulfate, resulting in a DCAD value of 198 mEq/kg DM.
Soybean meal plus corn oil (SBM+CO) – The standard SBM diet, supplemented with added fat via corn oil; 165 mEq/kg DM of DCAD.
DDGS with elevated DCAD (DG+DCAD) – The DG diet with elevated DCAD – achieved via supplementation with sodium bicarbonate and potassium carbonate – to achieve 300 mEq/kg DM of DCAD.

All cows were fed the standard SBM ration for the first 10 days of the trial, then switched to their respective trial rations for 5 weeks.

The researchers monitored milk and components production; blood parameters; and nutrient digestibility of all feeding groups. Their main conclusions were:

The experiment confirmed that milk fat depression occurs when high DDGS are included in a lactating ration, and that high PUFA is a dietary factor associated with low milk fat.
The high sulfur content of the DDGS ration did not appear to have a direct effect on the reduced production responses of the DG group. However, it did have an indirect effect, in that the negative ionic charge of sulfur lowered DCAD, impairing the acid-base balance of the cows and likely contributing to milk fat depression.
High PUFA content also appeared to be a factor in causing reduced production responses to a high DDGS diet.
Increasing DCAD to 300 mEq/kg DM in the DG+DCAD group eliminated the milk fat depression observed in the DG diet alone.

The authors concluded that preventing impairment of milk and component production when feeding at least 20% DDGS can be achieved by raising the DCAD to approximately 300 mEq/kg DM. They said combining DDGS with elevated DCAD can be a useful strategy in lowering feed costs and increasing income over feed cost without reduced production responses.

Whole Grains are Good for Calves, Too

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 14:15:00 GMT

You may be old enough to remember the time when bleach-white Wonder® Bread was a dietary staple in most American homes.

But over time, nutrition research revealed the multiple merits of less-processed whole grains. Their higher fiber and protein, plus more vitamins and minerals, have been proven to improve blood sugar levels, digestive processes, heart health and more.

Now, it appears that calves, too, may benefit from whole versus processed grains in their diets. Dr. Michael Ballou, Professor and Chair in the Department of Veterinary Sciences at Texas Tech University, shared insights into the value of feeding whole grains on a recent webinar hosted by the Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council .

Ballou said fermentable carbohydrates are the name of the game when it comes to rumen development and maturation in young calves. But the traditional method in which those carbohydrates have been delivered via calf starter may require a second look.

He cited a recent University of Wisconsin study that compared a starter that delivered 43% starch and 15% NDF using ground corn and oats in a pelleted formulation. That product was compared to a texturized starter delivering 35% starch and 25% NDF via whole corn, oats, and cottonseed hulls.

“Don’t get hung up on the pelleted versus texturized formulations,” he advised, noting that the difference in starch and NDF levels are the more important comparison.

Despite the pelleted ration being the more “conventional” calf starter formulation that packed a large punch in terms of fermentable carbohydrates, the consumption patterns and resulting weight gain were quite surprising.

For example, at 7 weeks of age, calves were consuming 3.1 pounds of dry-matter of the higher-starch, pelleted ration, while the calves on the lower-starch ration consumed 4.6 pounds of dry matter per day. This resulted in a net increase in total starch consumption of 153 more grams of total starch for calves consuming the lower-starch ration (pelleted: 481 g., texturized 634 g.).

That consumption translated into significantly different growth and weight gain between the two groups post-weaning. At 16 weeks, the calves on the lower-starch, whole-grain ration weighed an average of 352 pounds – about 80 pounds per head more than those on the higher-starch ration.

“A couple of years ago, I would have said, ‘You’re leaving some growth on the table by feeding a starter like that’ – when in reality, they saw really good growth with it,” stated Ballou. “Although it was formulated at a lower starch level, it produced healthier rumens and impressive improvements in average daily gains.”

He said the high-starch starter likely limited growth due to ruminal acidosis, a theory that is supported by lower rumen pH and higher rumen lesion scores for calves consuming it.

The researcher is so confident in those results that he has shifted feeding strategies in his own calves. Ballou raises calves in both the Midwest and Southwest. A standard starter ration for his calves consists of just protein pellets, whole corn, cottonseed hulls and molasses, with a little chopped, low-nutrient forage added near weaning.

“I have a study going right now in which I’m feeding a calf starter that I would not have touched a few years ago,” he added. That ration has a starch percentage in the low 20s, with high levels of digestible NDF via wheat middlings and soy hull pellets.

Ballou has a hunch that rethinking starter grain formulation strategies may hold some clues in solving the mystery of liver abscesses that plague fed dairy and dairy-beef calves, by helping develop a healthier rumen in the first 6 months of life. He said on a percentage basis, fermentable carbohydrates may actually impair rumen development and set calves up for rumenitis due to suppressed starter intake and lower rumen pH, with subsequently lower average daily gains.

The solution: feed whole grains, and bump up fiber levels via higher NDF values. “We know fermentable carbohydrates are going to stimulate rumen development,” declared Ballou. “We just need to deliver them in a smarter way.”

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Fat Sources: The New Focus in Milk Replacers

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 20:18:52 GMT

A lot of different formulation strategies can be employed in manufacturing milk replacer. But it takes more than just balancing for total protein and fat content to create a milk replacer recipe that optimizes calf performance.

A recent study published in the Journal of Dairy Science summarized a feeding trial by an international team of researchers who specifically examined and compared the results of using three different milk replacer formulations with different fat sources.

The study was led by PhD candidate Juliette Wilms with Netherlands-based Trouw Nutrition, with collaboration from researchers at the University of Guelph, Wageningen University in the Netherlands, and the University of Bonn, Germany.

Three feeding groups of 21 newborn Holstein calves were started on three respective milk replacer formulations. All three milk replacer sources contained 30% fat, 24% crude protein, and 36% lactose on a dry-matter basis. But three different combinations of 2 feedstuffs each were used to satisfy the fat portion:

Vegetable – 80% rapeseed and 20% coconut oil;
Animal – 65% lard and 35% liquid dairy cream; and
Mixed – 80% lard and 20% coconut fat

All fat ingredients were spray-dried during the milk replacer production process.

In the preweaned period, calves were housed in pens of 9 calves each – 3 from each feeding group – with their respective liquid ration dispensed ad libitum through a single autofeeder. They had common access to free-choice starter feed, chopped straw, and water throughout the study. Weaning was gradually induced between 7 and 10 weeks of age.

Calves were weighed and blood collected weekly until 85 days after arrival. Drinking speed and visits to the milk replacer source were recorded by the autofeeder software. Health events were recorded by caretakers, who were not informed of individual calves’ assigned feeding groups.

Results included:

No difference between groups in the number of calves receiving therapeutic intervention for diarrhea and respiratory disease;
Calves fed the animal fat ration consumed a higher volume of milk replacer than the other two treatment groups.
Starter feed intake did not vary significantly between groups.
Preweaned metabolizable energy intake was higher in calves fed the animal fat ration than the other two groups.
Plasma fatty acid profiles closely matched the fat source in the liquid ration in weeks 4 and 8, but that differentiation disappeared by week 12 when calves were completely weaned.
The animal fat group had a significantly higher preweaning average daily gain (ADG) [915 g/day, or about 2.017 lb./day] compared to the other two groups, which averaged about 783 g/day, or 1.73 lb./day.

The researchers noted that animal fat treatment was developed to align closely with the fatty acid profile of milk. Including medium-chain fatty acids was an important objective, as these specific fatty acids are a rapidly available energy source that can influence satiety signaling in calves. Whole milk contains about 11% medium-chain fatty acids. The inclusion rate in this study was: vegetable ration – 22%; animal ration – 7%; and mixed ration – 12%.

They concluded the slower growth of calves in the vegetable fat group compared to the animal fat group was linked to a higher preweaning energy conversion ratio in the vegetable group (calculated by dividing the total daily metabolizable energy intake by ADG), indicating a lower feed efficiency.

Overall, the fatty acid profile of the mixed group was very similar to that of the animal group, except that the animal fat ration contained butyric and caproic acids. Previous studies have shown that supplementing calves with butyric acid has improved gastrointestinal tract development.

Finally, the researchers noted that the animal fat ration did not include 100% milk fat because that would defeat one of the main purposes of milk replacer, which is increasing the net dairy product yield of dairy farms. The study also did not take into account the cost difference between the rations, most notably the potentially higher cost of competing in the human food market for dairy cream/butterfat.

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