Implement change of feeding routines over 2-3 weeks’ time. Even smaller changes in feeding can lead to unbalance in the herd and that results in more mastitis cases and increased SCC. High-producing herds are more sensitive to change in feeding. It is beneficial to have as few changes in feeding routines as possible.
Silage quality is crucial to ensure a well-balanced diet that is based on high-quality forage containing moderate concentrations of fiber (around 30% NDF, neutral detergent fiber) and starch (22-25%) and <5% total fat.
Rumen structure is an indicator for diet misbalance like acid and excessive intake of protein and minerals. Low pH in stomach leads to slower microbial digestion, while the low rumen structure leads to faster passing of particles from the stomach. This means a higher volume of undigested carbs entering the small intestine and on to the large intestine with a high attenuation as a result.
