Mid-Lactation 80 - 200 days

Mid-Lactation

Maximum dry matter intake is reached around 12 to 14 weeks of lactation. Maximizing dry matter intake maintains peak milk production. Milk production is stable or may start to decline. The cow is able to consume enough dry matter to meet the demands of milk production. She is either maintaining body weight or slightly gaining weight. The cow should be pregnant early in this phase.

The cow is pregnant and milk production is stable. She is replacing body reserves.

Provide fresh feed and periodically move it toward the cows to encourage intake.

Bulk feed ingredients, such as cottonseed products, are stored in the commodity shed.

Maintain milk production at a high level for as long as possible.

  • 103.50 Total (as fed)

A total mixed ration (TMR) contains a mix of all dietary feedstuffs. Fresh feed should be provided periodically, at least once per day, to encourage intake.

  • 100.00 Total DM (%)

The goal is to maximize dry matter intake to maintain peak milk production for as long as possible. Forage intake should be at least 40% of diet dry matter to maintain normal rumen function and normal milk fat. Grain is a major part of the diet. Grain intake may reach about 20 to 25 lbs per day. Excessive grain intake will decrease the percentage of fat in the milk. A source of rumen bypass fat can be included in the diet to provide an additional source of energy. Because the fat is inert in the rumen, it will not affect the normal function of the microorganisms in the rumen.

Early and mid-lactation are similar nutritionally. The same diet can be used for both phases. The NDF of the diet should be maintained at 25 to 28% and the ADF% of the diet should be maintained at about 18 to 19% to reduce rumen disorders. Dietary protein is maintained at a high level around 16 to 18%. The cow needs adequate amounts of RDP and RUP. The RUP should be around 40% of total protein. Added fat in the diet (ether extract) helps the cow meet her energy requirements. A source of rumen by pass fat is added to avoid problems with rumen fermentation. This is particularly important for high producing cows. A supply of clean water is critical for milk production.