Advances in dairy Research
Open Access

Abstract

Optimizing Diurnal Patterns of Nutrient Intake and Rumen Fermentation Based on Milking Management

Akbar Nikkhah

This article develops an on-farm strategy to optimize eating and rumen fermentation patterns according to milking timing and frequency. Considering the post-milking crave for food, to avoid starch overintake and to minimize risks from subacute rumen acidosis, depressed rumen microbial production and jeopardized milk yield, selected forage choices or mixed rations with a minimal concentrate portion should be fed post-milking. High-starch portions can then be fed at other feeding occasions not shortly post-milking. Milking timing and frequency affect how to optimize diurnal patterns of feeding and rumen fermentation for superior efficiency.