Milking frequency and feeding level effects on feed intake, body condition score, energy balance, and feeding behavior of late lactation dairy goats

Abstract

This experiment divided in two successive periods (P1: milking frequency reduction period, and P2: feed adjustment period) investigated the effects of once-daily milking (ODM) and feeding level (ad libitum or adjusted) on nutritional status and eating pattern from dairy goat in late lactation. Dry matter intake per kg of body weight (DMIBW), body condition score (BCS), energy and nitrogen balances, and eating pattern were determined during the both periods of the study. The energy balance was increased in goats under ODM management only during P1 and was decreased in goats under feed adjustment during P2. The DMIBW was reduced when the goats were under ODM or feeding adjustment management during P2, but BCS was not modified by either ODM or feeding adjustment. The goats modified their feeding pattern during P2 under feeding adjustment, and increased their rate of intake, especially those under ODM management.