Effect of High-Level Grain Feeding on Milk Production Response of Lactating Dairy Cows

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Abstract
Eighteen lactating dairy cows were divided into three comparable groups approximately 36 days postpartum to study the effect of feeding high levels of grain for a complete lactation. Grain was fed at three levels: Group 1, 1.0 lb grain per 3.5 lb milk; Group 2, 1.0 lb grain per 2.5 lb milk, and Group 3, grain ad libitum. The cows fed the two higher levels of grain produced considerably more milk than expected from the first part of lactation, whereas cows fed the low level of grain produced slightly less milk than expected. The averages of milk produced during the 260-day experimental period were 9,861, 10,650, and 12,543 lb per cow for Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. In the same order, the average percentages of milk fat, protein, and SNF were 3.7, 3.8, 8.9; 3.6, 3.8, 8.9; and 3.7, 3.8, 9.0, respectively. Average gains in body weight were 0.64, 0.91, and 0.94 lb per cow per day for Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively.

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