A time-controlled feeding system for cattle

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Abstract
A system of time-controlled feeding has been developed to give a considerable degree of control over the food intake of animals without eliminating individual variation.The system is based on the Calan-Broadbent electronic feeding doors and animals are conditioned by certain electrical and sound stimuli to use the doors only during prescribed periods. Clock mechanisms control the time intervals when electric power to the doors is on or off.Times and durations of feeding can be adjusted so that a predetermined level of intake is obtained, and a heavy demand on labour is avoided.In the present trial, British Friesian and Jersey cattle on a time-controlled feeding regime were compared with animals given access to food ad libitum. A significant reduction in food intake due to time-controlled feeding was detected in both breeds over a 6-month period.There was no evidence to suggest that the particular time-controlledfeeding regime restricted one breed more than the other.