What determines the requirement
Intake depends on body weight, stage of lactation, milk yield and climate. As a rule of thumb, a lactating cow eats about 3–4% of her body weight in dry matter per day, roughly 20–25 kg for a 600 kg cow.
Roughage and concentrate
Roughage (hay, alfalfa, silage) should make up at least 40–50% of dry matter to protect rumen health. Concentrate is adjusted to production; a common rule is about 1 kg per 2.5–3 litres of milk above maintenance.
Water
A lactating cow can drink more than 100 litres a day in hot weather, and shortages cut milk output quickly. Provide clean, cool water all day.
Practical tips
- Split feed into 2–3 meals a day.
- Change feeds gradually over 7–10 days.
- Track body weight, body condition and milk yield.
- Ask a vet or nutritionist to fine-tune the ration.
This is general information and not a substitute for professional advice.