Dairy Newsletter – May 2021

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In this month’s edition:

• Factors affecting milk fat content in May
  Questions on milk fat frequently arise for spring-calving herds fed high-quality grass during April and May. The common assumption is that low milk fat indicates rumen acidosis, with negative consequences for herd health. Some key management points on summer milk fat are highlighted.
• Research Update – Early nutrition critical
  Teagasc research has shown that early nutrition is critical for high fertility in replacement heifers.
• Lameness focus 
  This month we return to our lameness focus with Waterford-based Ned Dunphy, Farm Relief Services and veterinary surgeon Ger Cusack of Comeragh Veterinary Practice. In the spring-calving dairy herd, May is the most important month of the year for breeding activity.
• Health & Safety – Silage safety
  May is the month when grass growth ramps up and silage is made. It is a high-risk month and it is important to give safety your first priority.