Vitamins improve dairy production

摘要

The economic benefits of proper vitamin nutrition in dairy cows, above those supplied for normal metabolism include increased milk production, reduced prevalence of mastitis, improved reproduction, reduced occurrence of milk fever and improved hoofhealth. As production levels have increased and management systems have become more intensive the essential role of vitamins in animal metabolism and health has become increasingly apparent. Research has provided evidence that the optimal levels of somevitamins in the diets of dairy cows often exceed typical levels of supplementation. Consequently, there is a need to review the vitamin supply for high yielding dairy cows in order to maximise health, productivity, welfare and profitability on dairy farms. Because vitamins have a fundamental influence on metabolic processes, it is necessary for nutritionists and veterinary surgeons to have a good understanding of the current state of nutritional knowledge and be aware that it is subject to continual review.