Concentrate feeding strategy of dairy cows during transition period

Summary

This field trial examined concentrate feeding strategies for dairy cows during the metabolically demanding transition period around parturition. The research, conducted by Finnish researchers in a dairy production context, presumably evaluated how different concentrate allocation and composition during late pregnancy and early lactation affected cow performance and metabolic status. The findings would inform practical feeding recommendations for managing the transition period to support milk production and cow health.

Regional applicability

The study was conducted in Finland and thus directly reflects Northern European dairy farming conditions, including similar forage types, climate, and housing systems to those in the United Kingdom. The results would be applicable to UK dairy farming, particularly for systems using similar forage and concentrate bases, though herd management practices and feeding systems may vary.

Key measures

Likely included milk production, body weight change, body condition score, blood metabolites (e.g. glucose, NEFA, ketones), and feed intake during the transition period.

Outcomes reported

The study likely examined the effects of different concentrate feeding strategies on dairy cow performance, metabolic health, or production outcomes during the transition period (late pregnancy through early lactation). Specific metrics probably included milk yield, body condition, or blood metabolite changes.

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