As temperatures rise, so does the risk for heat stress in dairy cattle. Cows begin to experience heat stress at a much lower temperature than humans do – starting as low as 68°F in high producing cows. Once a cow’s internal body temperature rises, it is much more challenging to lower it. It is crucial to be proactive in keeping cows cool and comfortable to avoid heat stress.
Heat stress can affect each cow differently and can lead to several performance losses such as lower peak lactation, lower milk production, lower conception rate and reduced immune status. The most prominent symptoms include reduced feed intake which leads to reduced milk production. Digestive heat production increases as milk production rises; therefore, decreased feed intake is one of the first signs of heat stress. Milk production will begin to decline when a cow’s body temperature reaches 102.2°F. Not only will milk production decrease, but stress on the cow can also affect the components and somatic cell count levels in the milk. Studies have shown heat stress to lower milk fat and protein content by up to 0.4%. The shift in milk production levels, along with environmental factors, can lead to a higher risk of mastitis infecting the herd. Having a teat dip that effectively and efficiently kills bacteria and protects the teats is critical during months when weather is changing. It is important to have conversations with your consumables supplier to identify teat dip options that align with your milk quality and animal health goals.
There are multiple ways to subdue the stress of hot weather, including fans and proper ventilation and sprinkler or misting systems. Two other simple solutions I would like for you to consider involve having ample access to water for your herd and installing cow brushes in the barn.
Water Troughs
One of the fastest ways to internally cool the cow’s body is through water consumption. Milk is composed of nearly 90% water, so it is not surprising that a cow’s water intake has a major influence on her production. On hot days, cows will drink upwards of 50 gallons of water per day, so providing fresh, clean water at multiple access points is critical during this time. Cows prefer a large, calm drinking surface from which they can drink quickly and conveniently. Naturally, cows drink more water when eating and right after milking, so it is important to have water troughs located in easily accessible spots during these times. Ensure proper spacing when determining where to place water troughs. Three to four yards around the water trough are required to reduce pushing and shoving. Having ample space around the water areas helps submissive cows secure a place to drink without being afraid of being pushed away by dominate cows. We always recommend two water troughs per group of animals so every cow has the opportunity to consume water with ease.
Swinging Cow Brushes
Lastly, another great way to create optimal cow comfort is with a DeLaval swinging cow brush. With over 100,000 sold worldwide, the swinging cow brush is a proven way to increase the comfortability of your dairy herd. The DeLaval swinging cow brush is designed to start brush rotation on contact with an animal at a cow-friendly speed. It swings freely in all directions, smoothly up, over and alongside the cow. Ensure the bristles are the right length and stiffness to stimulate the blood circulation while helping the cow to keep clean and calm. The brush also helps dissipate heat during summer months, which is especially important. Use of the swinging cow brush will help ensure a cleaner coat by removing dirt and debris, allowing cows to cool their bodies and put their energy into milk production more effectively.
Cows who experience consistent heat stress can cause long-term health challenges and impact cow profitability. Compared to cows under heat stress, properly cooled cows are able to maintain good feed efficiency and can produce more milk, resulting in better economic performance. Cow comfort is not achieved with one single product or tool, but rather a well-developed strategy to ensure healthy and happy cows. Find out more information about the solutions DeLaval can provide for you by visiting www.delaval.com
Be the first to comment