The 3 Key Factors for Maximizing Milk Production
Kelvin Wairimu 
Milking Dairy Cows
One of the biggest concerns for farmers is reduced milk production. Achieving high milk output is the primary goal of dairy farming. To boost and maximize milk production, farmers must focus on three key factors: feeding, breeding, and health of the cows.
1. Proper Feeding with Protein-Rich Rations
Feeding is the most crucial factor for maximizing milk production. To achieve high milk yields, dairy cows should be fed a protein-rich diet.
Protein is the key nutrient responsible for increased milk production. Major protein supplements include soya, canola, sunflower seedcakes, and milled omena. Whole maize meal is a more affordable protein source known to enhance milk production.
Silage made from millet or sorghum can boost milk production more effectively than maize silage. Feeding cows raw millet and sorghum also contributes to increased milk yield, as these grains have a protein content exceeding 16%.
Read Also: The New Silage-Making Process in Kenya 2024
Access to clean water at all times is essential for cows. Their diet should be supplemented with mineral nutrients through salts. Finally, ensure that feed is readily available in the trough at all times.
2. Improved Breeding with High-Producing Breeds
To continuously maximize milk production, it’s important to breed cows that exhibit high milk-producing traits. When selecting breeding stock, choose breeds that can produce over 10,000 litres during a 305-day lactation period. Holstein Friesians are among the highest milk producers.
3. Maintaining Good Health at All Times
Sick cows directly result in reduced milk production. Bovine mastitis is one of the most detrimental diseases to dairy farming, leading to significant losses. This condition is characterized by a persistent inflammatory reaction in the udder tissue, often caused by physical trauma or infections from microorganisms.
To maximize milk production, focus on enhancing feeding practices, improving breeding, and ensuring good health to protect against diseases. The best results are typically observed in cows that are less than six months post-calving.
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