Effects of two different feeding strategies at dry-off on metabolism and milk production

Abstract

In an experiment with 22 primi-and multiparious cows the effects of two different feeding strategies at dry-off were tested. One group was fed straw ad libitum, while the other group was fed silage (4 kg DM) and straw ad libitum. Plasma NEFA increased signifi cantly at dry-off, especially in the straw group. Plasma insulin and beta-hydroxybutyrate decreased in both groups. Milk fat percentage increased during dry-off as well as protein content. The metabolism of cows in the silage group were not as affected by the dry-off procedure as the cows in the straw group.