NDF digestibility key to unlocking forage intakes

摘要

Feeding sufficient amounts of the right types of fibre will drive intakes, rumen health and milk yields, according to two leading US dairy experts. Mary Beth de Ondarza, a dairy consultant from New York State, said that while NDF is the common measureof fibre in the diet, not all NDF is the same. The aim must be to produce diets with adequate levels of digestible NDF. "The key to getting dairy cows performing is taking care of the rumen, and this means supplying sufficient fibre to help regulate rumen pH. Remember you are feeding cows, not pigs. "Fibre stimulates chewing and saliva production, while forming a rumen mat which slows the passage of grains and increases their digestibility. Fibre also improves the movement of particles around the rumenand the absorption of VFAs," she explained.