Milk productivity is important when raising cows of any breed. How many liters of milk a first heifer produces and what factors influence milk yield are not idle questions. In order for the productivity of the cow to increase, it is necessary to take into account the composition of the diet and the climatic features of the region. Holstein breed, according to statistics, is famous for its highest milk yield.
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How much milk does a first heifer produce after calving?
Before the first milking, the cow is accustomed to the procedure in advance. A couple of months before calving, it is recommended to begin lightly palpating the udder and massage. Periodically, the udder is washed from dirt with warm water so that the cattle gets used to touching.
On average, a first-calf heifer should produce 7-15 liters per day.Although there are cases when the milk yield was 22-25 liters. 7-10 days after calving, the milking period begins, lasting about three months. It is at this time that the maximum milk yield occurs (about 45% of the annual figure).
At subsequent calvings, milk production volumes increase. This indicator depends on the breed. There are other factors that affect productivity.
What factors influence the amount of milk?
It is known that dairy and meat-and-milk cows will have a higher milk yield than meat cows.
To increase milk yield, pay attention to the following factors:
- seasonality - in the summer, milk yield will be higher, since the cattle receive fresh feed and are constantly moving. In winter, the diet changes, cows also have to expend energy to maintain body temperature;
- diet: juicy summer nutrition helps increase milk volume. In winter, the feed is supplemented with vegetable peelings, hay, straw, vitamins and minerals.
According to experienced livestock breeders, livestock productivity depends only 30-35% on the breed, and 70-65% on the diet.
On average, 3000-3500 liters of milk per year is considered the norm for a first-calf heifer, regardless of breed.
If you cannot milk 10-15 liters per day, you need to contact a veterinarian, since the cause of low milk yield may be an illness of the animal. To increase milk yield, you need to choose a balanced diet and provide proper care for animals before and after calving.