Dairy Cattle

GLP-1 weight-loss drugs are reshaping dairy demand by curbing cravings for processed, fatty, and sugary products, fueling a rise in protein-rich, low-fat options.
Human nutrition increasingly embraces fermentation as a natural and non-medicated means of promoting digestive health and supporting the gut microbiome. Now, some dairies are doing the same, by feeding kefir to their calves.
A sneak peak of Farm Journal’s leading-edge survey insights illustrates strategic solutions that generate renewed confidence, ensuring a promising path forward for the industry.
Can pasteurized whole milk be enhanced with added milk replacer powder? If so, is it possible to add too much of a good thing?
It is important that dairy industry stakeholders work together to further understand the complexity and underlying mechanisms of heat stress impacts and develop alternative strategies to mitigate the risks.
Researchers continue to seek methods of monitoring animal health and welfare to anticipate health setbacks and improve the animals’ lives. The latest tool to do so: saliva.
With dairy replacements in tight supply and beef-on-dairy calves worth a small fortune, monitoring the health and management of livestock is just as crucial as keeping a close eye on financials.
One researcher says of the 7,800 bulk tank milk samples her company tests annually, 45% of them are positive for the bacterium.
Could a cow’s birth season impact its longevity and productivity? University of Florida researchers say yes—discover how heat stress at birth could shape a cow’s future.
With heifer prices at record highs, raising replacements on-farm can be a money saver since 2024 costs are much lower than buying on the market.
The U.S. dairy industry, driven by substantial investments and shifting consumer preferences, is poised for significant growth in the coming years.
The March Ag Economists’ Monthly Monitor asked economists if they think the U.S. general economy will see a recession in 2025. 62% said yes.
With beef-on-dairy calves in high demand, giving them the best start is essential for both their health and market value. Dr. Gail Carpenter outlines five key priorities for dairy farmers to focus on to help set these calves up for success.
With the drive to improve, Wiebren Jonkman, a visionary young dairy producer, purchased a Merced, California dairy and transformed it into a beacon of modern agricultural success.
Even mild cases can impact milk production, health and well-being. Researchers, citing expenses and losses farmers incur from the problem, say costs per case commonly range from $76, on the low end, to more than $336, on average.
 Soon after the discovery of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strain H5N1 in dairy cattle, scientists learned that milk was a primary vector in spreading the disease from cow to cow.
The U.S. bovine semen industry’s resurgence in 2024 signifies more than just a recovery. It represents a transformative wave of growth that is poised to impact livestock reproduction on a global scale.
Last week, the U.S. dollar had the worst week-to-week performance since 1995 and that, combined with global dairy price premiums, should spark some export interest and support domestic prices.
What is normal for calf body temperature, and when should they be treated for fevers? Industry experts weigh in on making temperature monitoring a routine part of daily calf care.
Medgene reports the vaccine has met all requirements of the USDA platform technology guidelines and is in the final stages of review for conditional license approval.
An unprecedented shift in the U.S. dairy cattle population could signal uncertainty ahead in terms of milk production, cow numbers, and prices – for both the milk and the animals.
Have you ever wanted to post on social media but were worried about potential backlash? Knowing how to handle contentious issues online can help people understand the animal agriculture’s commitment to animal care.
While Lindsey Worden has remained with one employer since college, her passion for dairy could “easily fill a barn.” She illustrates that with a readiness to embrace change and seize opportunities, tremendous achievements are attainable. Her leadership at the Holstein Association is paving the way for innovations benefiting producers and the industry for years to come.
The dairy cattle market is currently experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand, creating a bustling atmosphere in the industry. As the competition heats up, market players are closely observing what is currently trending – is it beef-on-dairy calves or the traditional dairy replacements and fresh cows?
In the world of dairy farming, maximizing milk quality and cow comfort is paramount. Dr. Andy Johnson, famously known as ‘The Udder Doctor,’ has been at the forefront of this mission. With experience ranging from small farms with 20 cows to large-scale operations with 22,000 cows, Dr. Johnson’s insights have reached dairies across 30 countries and 47 states.
Sec. Mike Naig says the U.S. government is using what he describes as a three-legged stool approach to address the virus in the dairy and poultry industries.
As the nation grapples with immigration policy debates, the livelihoods of those within the dairy sector hang in balance, underscoring the urgent need for balanced reform that considers both economic imperatives and humanitarian values.
Cold, snow, wind, and more – winter in the northern climates brings extra challenges for dairies and their animals.
Monitoring heifer growth, and making management decisions based upon it, is proving to be an increasingly important practice to strike the delicate balance between economizing heifer development and breeding them at the correct stage to maximize their performance as mature cows.
Research shows feeding frequency has less impact on preweaned dairy calves’ performance than the total nutrients provided, despite logic suggesting more frequent feedings would help.
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