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Dairy cattle

The lifespan of dairy cows is an important part of the sustainability theme. The term “lifespan” is usually used to indicate a period that ends due to natural causes in old age. But today in our intensive farming systems, the cow’s lifespan is significantly shorter than its potential. Currently, the average dairy cow lasts about three lactations.

Earn thousands of euros!

Earn Major steps can be taken in the field of sustainability, profitability and social acceptance. Financially, the benefits can amount to tens of thousands of euros per year! An important question, of course, is: in what way? Heifer-calf rearing, lactation start and lactation persistence are important components. Below is a calculation example and more information.

Aim for two extra lactations!

A Dutch dairy cow lasts on average more than three lactations and has a lifetime production of approximately 30,000 kg of milk. Replacement of dairy cows is not voluntary in seven out of ten cases; forced drainage can often be prevented by taking preventive action. The main causes of forced drainage are mastitis, hoof problems and reduced fertility. Preventive action is a good investment, because it can prevent many of these problems and extend the life.

We think along with you about every detail, because it’s about details!

8 June 2021

Drinking water quality deserves attention

Drinking water quality is extremely important for a well-functioning dairy cow. More than half of her daily ration consists of water and the production of 1 liter of milk requires considerably more than 1 liter of water.

8 June 2021

The advantages of drenching

Drenching, the oral application of an adequate amount of liquids, is extremely suitable for sick cows, but also for fresh cows. A drench supplies the cow with water, often supplemented with salts and nutrients.

8 June 2021

Metabolic programming of calves

A higher milk production may be achieved by so-called ‘metabolic programming’ of a calf, because an optimal nutritional strategy in the milk phase positively influences the metabolism of calves.

8 June 2021

Intestinal problems in young calves

Diarrhoea often occurs in young calves. In young calves, a disturbed fluid balance at gut level is one of the main health issues. Intestinal problems are often caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites.

8 June 2021

Colostrum management, important?

Colostrum management is an essential factor for a good start of calf rearing. For a proper uptake of antibodies from colostrum, it is crucial that the calf starts drinking colostrum as soon as possible after birth (at least 2 litres).

8 June 2021

Clinical and subclinical symptoms

In case of illness or disease we often talk about certain symptoms or behaviour we observe in animals. Clinical symptoms are signs that are directly visible. Subclinical signs cannot (yet) be seen from the outside of the animal.

8 June 2021

Prevent health risks in pasture

Modern pasture grass is generally deficient in essential trace elements, like copper, selenium and cobalt. Also, the uptake of trace elements depends on the soil type.

8 June 2021

Calved; Why doesn’t my cow get up?

It still happens quite often, a cow that does not get into its legs after calving. Where is this now and how can we solve it? The phenomenon is called milk fever, and it is caused by a lack of calcium in the blood (hypocalcaemia).

8 June 2021

Top athletes – The Dutch dairy cow

Our modern dairy cow passes through a cycle that contains risky phases. The transition period, often described as the last thirty days of gestation plus the first thirty days after calving – is such a hazardous period of time.

8 June 2021

Aim for two more lactations

With respect to sustainability, profitability and social acceptance, large steps can be taken with a longer lifespan of dairy cows. From a financial point of view, the benefits may amount to tens of thousands of euros each year!