How much milk does a first heifer normally give and what can affect milk yield
Milk production is important when raising cows of any breed. How many liters of milk a first-calf heifer gives and what factors affect 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, the climatic characteristics of the region. The Holstein breed, according to statistics, is famous for the highest milk yield.
How much milk does a first heifer give after calving?
Before the first milking, the cow is trained in the procedure in advance. A couple of months before calving, it is recommended to start a light feeling of the udder, massage. Periodically, the udder is washed from dirt with warm water so that the cattle get used to the touch.
On average, a first-calf should give 7-15 liters per day. Although there are cases when the milk yield was 22-25 liters. 7-10 days after calving, the breeding period begins, lasting about three months. It is at this time that the maximum milk yield falls (about 45% of the annual indicator).
With subsequent calving, the milk yield increases. This indicator depends on the breed. There are also factors that affect productivity.
What factors affect the amount of milk?
It is known that dairy and meat and dairy cows have higher milk yield than beef cows.
To increase the volume of milk yield, pay attention to the following factors:
- seasonality - in the summer, milk yield will be higher, since the cattle receives fresh feed and is constantly moving. In winter, the diet changes, cows also have to spend energy to maintain body temperature;
- diet: juicy summer food helps to increase milk volume. In winter, compound feed is supplemented with vegetable peelings, hay, straw, vitamins and minerals.
According to experienced livestock breeders, the productivity of livestock only 30-35% depends 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, regardless of breed.
If it is not possible to inflict 10-15 liters per day, it is necessary to contact the veterinarian, since the cause of poor milk yield may be an animal's illness. To increase milk yield, you need to choose a balanced diet, provide proper care for the animals before and after calving.
