Question

What type of food requirement is necessary for milk producing cattle?

Answer 1

Milk-producing cattle need a balanced ration that meets both maintenance needs and the extra needs of milk production during lactation.

Main components of the ration

1. Roughage: Fibre-rich feed such as green fodder, silage, hay, straw and legumes.
2. Concentrates: Low-fibre, nutrient-rich feeds such as grains, bran and oilseed cakes.
3. Water and additives: Adequate water and, where required, additives containing minerals, antibiotics or hormones.

An average cow’s daily ration is about 15–20 kg of green fodder, 4–5 kg of grain mixture and 30–35 litres of water. The amount and type of feed should be balanced because poor-quality feed can reduce milk yield.

A nutritious, balanced ration supports the health of the animal and helps maintain good milk production.