A model of the energy system of lactating and pregnant cows

Abstract
1. A deterministic model and computer program of the energy system of lactating and pregnant cows have been developed.2. Input data for cow, nutritional, management and environmental factors are required.3. The output of milk production, live weight and heat production is a time series, with a weekly time-step.4. Suckler and dairy cow examples are given to illustrate the use of the model to evaluate the effects of quality, quantity and pattern of food intake, and shelter.