Gently increasing milk yield in cows: How rubber barn mats boost animal welfare and productivity

Milk yield is a key factor for the economic efficiency of dairy farming. Nonetheless, it should not be augmented at any cost, as this can impact both animal health and the profitability of a farm. Instead, the emphasis should always be on sustainable factors, such as the longevity and productivity of each individual cow. This approach paves the way for the long‐term stability of dairy cattle husbandry. Studies show a direct correlation between animal health, well‐being and the individual milk yield of a cow. But what can be done to gradually increase milk yield? Let us take a closer look at five of the most important parameters.

Activity and feed intake are related

The key to increased movement is a species‐appropriate and soft floor: In a barn with pasture‐like barn flooring, dairy cows exhibit notably increased mobility compared to those on hard concrete floors. Active cows are more productive and healthier, readily engaging in their natural behaviors. This also includes species‐friendly feed intake.

Cattle instinctively meet their dietary needs through frequent, brief feeding sessions, consuming modest quantities at regular intervals throughout the day. This is gentle on the digestive system and promotes a harmonious pH balance in the rumen.

When cows are housed on soft rubber mats, they exhibit notably increased levels of activity and engage in more frequent feeding⁴⁾. This supports the natural behavior of cattle and promotes a healthy metabolism. Ultimately, species‐appropriate feed intake is a key pillar for maintaining a stable milk yield.

Hygienic lying areas ensure a healthy udder

Of course, not only exercise is important for a fully functioning metabolism. Cows should spend roughly 12 hours a day relaxing in the free stall, where the udder receives the most amount of blood flow, the rumen is most active and ruminating is stimulated. As such, cows produce most of their milk lying down. Achieving the desired duration of lying time necessitates not only comfortable ground but also the right amount of space.

If cows have an adequate amount of space to lie straight and get up according to their natural tendencies, not only will they spend more time lying down, but they will also have cleaner stalls. Feces on the lying area is detrimental to udder health. Ensuring optimal cleanliness of the lying area is a fundamental criterion for achieving good udder health and steady milk yield. Hygienic, sterilized bedding with good absorbency promotes a clean, dry surface and reduces bacteria in general.

Proper feeding boosts milk yield

In addition to the correct barn conditions, the right feed also has a major influence on milk yield. A steadfast commitment to high‐quality forage offers dual benefits: The more milk that can be produced from the forage, the healthier it is for the cow and the better it is economically for the farmer. If a consistent composition of the forage ration is maintained and complemented by cow‐specific concentrated feed, a gradual and sustainable increase in milk yield is promoted.

In addition to regular adaptation of the fed ration, it is crucial to monitor the actual consumption of the ration – at the latest when altering feed components. The ingredients of the bulk milk offer a reliable and consistent indicator of the herd’s nutritional status. During the onset of lactation, it is imperative to closely monitor individual animals and to assess their milk constituents at more frequent intervals. This enables the swift detection and management of metabolic imbalances and ensures the optimal utilization of concentrated feed.

Summary: Species-appropriate feed and husbandry ensure a healthy long-term increase in the milk yield

A glance at the numerous, often minor, adjustment options shows: There is no preferred method of choice to enhance milk yield. If you look at the entire ’dairy cow system’,  several factors must seamlessly align to maintain the well‐being and productivity of the animals. In addition to optimal feeding and good free stall management, there is one key element that is often overlooked: Species‐appropriate barn flooring. As cows can unlock their maximum performance potential in a free stall barn only when they take joy in moving around.

Beside boosting hoof health, soft and species‐appropriate walking areas ensure that cows can move easily, quickly and without pain. This allows them to go about their essential daily behaviour without any hesitation. Optimal all‐round care is crucial, particularly during the critical initial phase of lactation. This contributes substantially to maintaining a healthy metabolism and, consequently, to the long‐term health and performance of dairy cows.

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