High milk yield, heat stress, infections, and reduced feed intake can simultaneously challenge energy balance, digestion and metabolism. Therefore, simply providing additional energy is not enough during periods of stress. A holistic approach is crucial, combining high energy density with targeted support for digestion and metabolism.
When multiple stressors coincide
Particularly at the start of lactation and during phases of high milk yield, the cow can fall into a negative energy balance. If feed intake decreases at the same time—for example, due to high temperatures or infections—the situation intensifies: the cow consumes less energy even though her requirements remain high.
To compensate for the energy deficit, she increasingly mobilizes body fat. This can further challenge the metabolism and immune system and impact health, performance, and longevity.
Typical stress factors:
High milk yield
High energy requirement, especially at the start of lactation
Heat stress
Reduced feed intake at high temperatures
Infections
Additional burden on the immune system and metabolism
Lower feed intake
Less energy while requirements remain high
Especially when several factors occur simultaneously, the ration should do more than just provide energy.
Three starting points for stressful phases
1. High energy density
Rumen-stable fat provides highly concentrated energy. This allows the energy density of the consumed ration to be increased without using large amounts of rapidly fermentable carbohydrates and unnecessarily burdening rumen fermentation further.
2. Antioxidant supply
High milk yield, fat mobilization, infections, and heat stress can be associated with increased oxidative stress. Vitamin E and Vitamin C are important components of the antioxidant system and supplement the supply during such phases. Natural plant components such as pepper and willow bark can provide additional support.
3. Digestion and metabolism
Rapeseed lecithin functions as an emulsifier and naturally provides phospholipids, including choline-containing compounds. Nutritionally, choline is closely linked to fat transport and liver metabolism. Rapeseed lecithin thus complements the concept where high energy provision and metabolic support must come together.
Practical tip:
Do not simply provide more concentrated feed. Specifically upgrade the actually consumed ration with highly concentrated energy while simultaneously monitoring digestion and metabolism.
Conclusion: Feed holistically rather than just high-energy
In periods of stress, various challenges intertwine. Reduced feed intake meets a continued high energy requirement, while the metabolism and immune system may be challenged simultaneously.
It is therefore sensible to support the cow in several areas: with high energy density, an adapted antioxidant supply, and components that supplement digestion and metabolism.
The goal: To support the cow precisely when she is under particular pressure, thereby maintaining the prerequisites for health, performance and longevity.
