Dairy Cow Tips – Feed & Supplements for More Milk

The Milk Production Formula

More milk starts with better nutrition. Here's what dairy cows need:

Daily Diet Basics

• Forage (60-70% of diet):
  - High-quality hay (alfalfa or grass)
  - Silage (fermented grass or corn)

• Concentrates (30-40% of diet):
  - Protein sources: Soybean or canola meal
  - Energy sources: Corn, barley, or wheat

Key Supplements

• Rumen buffers: (like sodium bicarbonate)
  - Prevent acid buildup from high-grain diets.

• Mineral mix:
  - Must include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium

Feeding Schedule

• Feed concentrates during milking.

• Offer forage throughout the day.

• Always provide clean, fresh water.

Pro Tip

Work with a bovine nutritionist to create custom feed rations for your herd's specific needs.